Yeo and fellow NSW representative Nathan Cleary will share the leadership role during the upcoming campaign.

"As someone who came to the club as a 17-year-old and worked my way through the grades, to find myself in this position now is something my family and I are very proud of," St John's junior Yeo said.

"It's an absolute privilege to be appointed to this role alongside Nathan. I think we've both grown a lot as footballers and leaders over the past couple of years.

"As a captain of this proud club I want to be leading by example, on and off the field, and I'll be doing that to the best of my ability."

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26-year-old Yeo is the Panthers most experienced player with 148 NRL games to his name.

He enjoyed a stellar 2020 season, playing a key role in leading Penrith to the minor premiership.

Those efforts were recognised as he was named the NRL's Dally M Lock of the Year while he also made his State of Origin debut for NSW.

Panthers coach Ivan Cleary felt it was an obvious choice to appoint Yeo and his own son, Nathan, to the role.

"When I watched Isaah and Nathan during the first few weeks of this pre-season, they were organically leading those around them," Cleary said.

"As first-time captains, I think it's beneficial they can share the burden of extra responsibilities that come with the role.

"Of course neither of them are the finished product but this opportunity will allow them to continue growing as leaders. I know they will do an excellent job for our club."

Yeo will get the honour of leading his side out in his home town later this year with the Panthers set to take on the South Sydney Rabbitohs at Dubbo's Apex Oval on May 23.