LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Prominent Queensland journalist Peter Badel has criticized the Brisbane Broncos for their decision to let Tom Dearden leave the club, stating they should "hang their heads in shame." Dearden recently shone in the NRL, winning the Wally Lewis Medal as player of the series in State of Origin, where he scored two tries in Queensland's 24-12 victory over NSW.
At just 24, Dearden is a two-time Origin series winner and has previously succeeded with the Kangaroos in the Pacific Championships.
The Broncos' mistake in not retaining Dearden has been highlighted once again.
He made his debut for the Broncos as a teenager in 2019 and was part of a challenging 2020 season where the team finished last.
By 2021, Dearden found himself relegated to reserve grade, ultimately leading to the Broncos allowing him to sign with North Queensland mid-season.
At that time, the Broncos chose to focus on other players such as Brodie Croft, Anthony Milford, and Tyson Gamble-choices that now seem ill-advised.
The Cowboys recognized Dearden's potential and offered him an opportunity, which he has capitalized on, now serving as their captain and significantly contributing to their transformation into a finals-caliber team.
Badel questioned the Broncos' decision, emphasizing that Dearden was developed within their system and had been identified as a vital long-term playmaker.
He remarked, "He was in their system, he was in the Broncos academy, they were bringing him through.
He was identified as a 15-year playmaker and he was just let go."
Badel's comments highlight a growing discontent around the Broncos' management decisions, particularly regarding young talent.
The successful rise of Dearden in the Cowboys reinforces the narrative that the Broncos may have missed a crucial opportunity to develop a star player.