The Brisbane Broncos have made a mid-season move to address their forward pack depth, signing experienced reserve-grade player Ben Talty from the Melbourne Storm system.
Coach Michael Maguire has brought in the 26-year-old forward on a full-time deal, with immediate effect, as the Broncos look to steady a pack that’s come under increasing scrutiny throughout the 2024 season.
Talty’s Journey to Brisbane
Talty, who started his professional journey with the Newcastle Knights in 2019, joined the North Sydney Bears in 2023 — a key feeder club to the Storm. He featured in three NRL trial games and played 89 reserve-grade matches, including a pre-season hit-out this year against the Warriors, in which he scored a try.
Although he’s yet to make an official NRL debut, Talty impressed many in the lower ranks with his toughness and work ethic. His exit from the Bears was confirmed on Monday:
“The Club confirms the immediate release of Ben Talty who has been offered a full-time contract with the Brisbane Broncos. Talty has been an important part of our NSW Cup team. We wish him well in his NRL journey,” said the Bears in an official statement.
Broncos Depth Tested
The Broncos’ forward pack has been under fire in recent weeks, with names like Brendan Piakura, Jordan Riki, Kobe Hetherington, Fletcher Baker, and Jaiyden Hunt all facing criticism for inconsistent performances. With Payne Haas and Patrick Carrigan tied up in State of Origin duties, Maguire may turn to Talty as a debut option as early as Round 18 against the Bulldogs.
It’s a move that makes sense from a depth perspective — but not everyone’s convinced.
Mixed Reactions from Fans
Reaction to Talty’s signing has been split online. Some fans see it as a smart reinforcement move. Others see it as a sign of the Broncos scrambling for answers amid poor form.
One Bears supporter wrote:
“Stoked for Ben. Since he walked in the door, he bled for us and truly cared. He deserves an NRL shot. Fingers crossed he becomes a Perth Bear in the future with 10-20 NRL games to his name.”
Broncos Legend Sends Message
Club great Steve Renouf recently challenged the forwards to live up to the legacy of the jersey after the team dropped six of seven games prior to their Round 14 win over the Titans.
“That Broncos jersey comes with standards. It’s a privilege to wear it. We weren’t perfect in our era, but we knew our teammate would lift us when it mattered,” Renouf said.
“Against Manly, we didn’t see that fight — they hit a rough patch and just dropped off.”
🏉 POLL: Was signing Ben Talty a smart move for the Broncos?
▢ Yes – They need more depth up front
▢ No – Feels like a desperation signing
▢ Time will tell – Let’s see how he performs
👇 Vote and share your take in the comments!
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