Reflecting on the 2025 NRL season, it was an outstanding year for the Brisbane Broncos.
Under the guidance of coach Michael Maguire, who has experienced success at various levels of rugby league, the team ended a 19-year premiership drought, positioning itself as the standard-bearer in the competition.
As they entered the 2026 season, the Broncos kept most of their roster intact, and expectations to contend for the trophy were high.
However, the conclusion of the regular season has seen inconsistent performances and mounting pressure lead fans to ponder a pressing question: what went wrong?
Injuries have plagued every NRL team, and the Brisbane Broncos have certainly not been exempt.
Crucial players like Payne Haas, Adam Reynolds, Reece Walsh, Patrick Carrigan, and Kotoni Staggs have all faced significant injury setbacks this season.
Frequent alterations to their lineup, particularly within the forward pack and spine, have hindered the effective combinations that were vital to their championship victory in 2025.
Nonetheless, other teams have dealt with considerable injuries without suffering such a record of 15 losses.
Brisbane has struggled with depth, unable to fill the void left by their key players' absences.
Last season, their achievements greatly relied on a formidable spine that was adept at dismantling opposing defenses.
Yet in 2026, this very spine has been inconsistent in impacting games.
With experienced halfback Adam Reynolds battling injuries in what is his final NRL season, the rigors of the extended season appear to have worn down this standout player.