LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Brisbane Broncos have bolstered their forward depth by signing veteran forward Ben Talty from the Melbourne Storm system.
Michael Maguire, the head coach, made the move effective immediately, as Talty has been part of the Storm system since 2023, playing primarily with the North Sydney Bears in the NSW Cup.
Reports indicate that Talty participated in a pre-season match against the Warriors in February, where he scored a try; however, he has yet to make his first-grade debut in the NRL.
The North Sydney Bears announced Talty's departure, stating, "The Club confirms the immediate release of Ben Talty who has been offered a full-time contract position with the Brisbane Broncos.
Talty came to the Bears in Round 14, 2023, and has been an important part of the NSW Cup team ever since.
We wish Ben well in his NRL journey."
Talty initially started his career at the Newcastle Knights in 2019 before moving to the Bears four years later.
Over his career, he has played in 89 reserve grade matches and participated in three NRL trial games.
Maguire's plans for Talty at the Broncos remain uncertain, particularly as the team is facing a notable lack of depth in their forward pack.
Players like Brendan Piakura, Jordan Riki, Kobe Hetherington, Fletcher Baker, and Jaiyden Hunt have been under scrutiny this season for their performances.
This weekend's game against Cronulla will put this depth to the test, with a decision looming over whether State of Origin forwards Payne Haas and Patrick Carrigan will back up after Game 2 on Wednesday.
The situation will be especially critical in Round 18 when the Broncos face the Bulldogs without their star forwards before the anticipated Origin 3 match.
Given these constraints, Maguire may be considering an opportunity for Talty to make his NRL debut during this fixture.