Brisbane Broncos and NSW Blues State of Origin star Payne Haas has report toedly dropped a major contract bombshell, with news emerging that his management has reached out to all rival NRL clubs ahead of his off-contract status in 2026.
According to Fox Sports, Haas’ representatives have already begun testing the waters across the league, asking whether clubs are interested in signing the million-dollar prop from 2027 onwards.
“There is talk that his agent has gone to all the other rival clubs and said, Payne is off-contract as of 2027 and if anybody wants to express interest, that door is open,” Fox League journalist James Hooper said during their coverage of the Broncos’ latest defeat to the Manly Sea Eagles.
The timing couldn’t be worse for Brisbane. On top of a string of poor performances, including their most recent loss to Manly, tensions are rising at Red Hill.
“The rumblings coming out of Red Hill at the moment are ugly,” Hooper added. “And as the losses mount, the noise will only increase.”
This isn’t the first time Haas has looked at a potential exit. Prior to his most recent deal, he requested an early release before being convinced to stay.
This time, however, it seems winning, not money, is the top priority. Haas reportedly wants to be part of a premiership-contending team, and the Broncos’ inconsistent form could tip the scales against them.
Salary Cap Squeeze
The Broncos’ salary cap could also be a factor in the potential shake-up. The club is currently juggling several big-money deals including:
- Reece Walsh
- Patrick Carrigan
- Ezra Mam
- Adam Reynolds
Meanwhile, rising stars Selwyn Cobbo and Kotoni Staggs are both off-contract at the end of this season. Reports suggest the Broncos may only be able to afford keeping one of them — unless a marquee player like Haas departs, which would free up significant cap space.
Still, losing the best prop in the game is a scenario Brisbane is desperate to avoid.
📊 POLL: Should the Broncos Do Everything to Keep Payne Haas?
Cast your vote below:
🔘 Yes – He’s the best prop in the game, a must-keep
🔘 No – Let him walk if it helps retain other key players
🔘 Only if the team shows they can contend for a premiership
🔘 Too soon to tell – wait until the end of the season
Discover more from VIEWINFOR
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.