Brisbane's CEO Dave Donaghy has stated that Payne Haas could potentially return to the Broncos in the future, as the top front-rower gets ready to join South Sydney.
During an unscheduled press briefing at the Broncos' headquarters on Monday, Donaghy acknowledged that the club mishandled Adam Reynolds' send-off.
He also expressed his desire for coach Michael Maguire to remain with the team, supporting his staff in the wake of a disappointing title defense in the NRL.
Most notably, Donaghy spoke at length about Haas, who made headlines in February by signing a three-year deal with Souths.
"The door's always open to Payne," he remarked, just before Thursday's season finale against Canterbury.
"He's been a wonderful, magnificent servant for the football club for a long period of time. He's won six Paul Morgan medals. As Madge (Maguire) said, I think at some point he'll probably come down as an immortal.
"He's made incredible contributions to the club, and hopefully one day we might see him back in Broncos colours."
Should Haas become a free agent during his time with Souths, he would likely draw considerable interest, including from the PNG Chiefs.
When asked about a potential return to the Broncos, Haas avoided the topic, stating, "I can't tell the future, I'm just trying to be present."
He opted not to revisit the reasons behind his departure from Brisbane and confirmed he hadn't discussed the team's recent extensive review with them.
The 26-year-old also mentioned he was uncertain if upcoming hand surgery would affect his ability to represent Samoa in the World Cup, but remained hopeful about contributing to the team.
Haas highlighted his round-one victory over North Queensland in 2020 and last year's grand final win as his top two moments with the Broncos.
"Obviously, this club is a very special club and we get looked after, but I think more the connection with the boys (I'll miss)," he expressed.
Reflecting on his early career struggles, Haas noted, "If it wasn't for the Broncos, I wouldn't be the man and especially the footy player I am."
The challenges of Brisbane's recent season were epitomized by the Reynolds incident, which involved confusing messages about the captain's fitness for the final rounds.
Donaghy subtly criticized the stadium for the miscommunication during Reynolds' farewell, acknowledging that the club should have placed greater importance on the departing players.
The disappointing conclusion to the 2026 season, marked by just two victories in 15 games, has intensified scrutiny on Maguire's role.
Yet, while Donaghy affirmed that Maguire and his team would be primed for pre-season, he refrained from commenting on the coach's contract status beyond next year.
"We'll have those discussions behind closed doors," he stated.
"I've always said I'd love for Madge to be the long-term coach. But with respect to people's HR confidentiality, I think we'll keep those between Madge and I."