The Courier Mail’s Chief NRL writer Pete Badel has given an update on the Brisbane Broncos’ retention and recruitment plans as the club looks to lock down two young stars.
Brisbane currently possesses one of the most in-demand free agents in Ezra Mam and are also due to upgrade Reece Walsh’s contract in the coming weeks.
Whilst the Broncos face a salary cap squeeze the club has been forced to part ways with stars Kurt Capewell, Herbie Farnworth and Tom Flegler.
Consequently, the Broncos have now freed up the funds to retain the majority of their young core, as Badel noted on SEN 1170 Sportsday.
On Ezra Mam
“I’m told he’s had about six or seven clubs show interest, my information is he won’t be going anywhere, the Broncos are very confident.
“He hasn’t formally signed with the Broncos, they’ve put a very attractive deal to him, I’m told it’s in the three to four-year vicinity and it will incrementally rise to the point where he becomes a million-dollar player at the club.
“The feeling that the other interested clubs have is that he won’t be leaving the Broncos… Brisbane were hoping to have it done before Christmas but if (it’s) not done before Christmas, it’ll be done early in the new year.
“Having spoken to Ezra myself, he’s indicated he’d be keen to wear the number seven jumper, although there’s a sentiment at the Broncos that feels he’s better suited at six and they don’t play to move him.”
On Adam Reynolds
“They’ll sign Adam Reynolds for another 12 months, for 2025 by which time Adam Reynolds will be 35 years old.
“He’ll go on in 25, then he will retire, that’s the plan… (he will) move into a possible coaching role at the Broncos, like a specialised half consultant.” On Reece Walsh
“Reece is signed until the end of (2025)… I think what you’ll find is they’ll upgrade Reece Walsh for next season, then they’ll look to formalise a longer-term extension.
“Reece Walsh loves Brisbane, I don’t see him leaving.”
On potential new recruits
“I know the Broncos are looking for depth in the backrow, I’ve heard they’ve made a few enquiries with Zac Hosking at Penrith.
“Having lost Kurt Capewell, they want a bit more insurance in the backrow, so they’re currently looking for an edge backrower to bolster their stocks. “He’s (Hosking) a man in demand at the moment.”
Listen to the full chat below:
More in NRL
"Cloned the Panthers": Why Voss believes Dogs are the real deal
The Bulldogs are now the same odds as the Panthers to win the premiership.
Moving Turbo to five-eighth won't reduce injury risk for Sea Eagles' most influential player
A move to five-eighth has been proposed after Daly Cherry-Evans announced his exit from the Sea Eagles.
Souths pull off remarkable win as Mitchell shines on return
Latrell Mitchell put in a stellar performance to lead South Sydney to a improbable win