In a significant move, the Brisbane Broncos have released prop Benjamin Te Kura from his contract effective immediately, enabling him to chase an NFL opportunity in the United States for 2027.
The promising forward made his debut for the Broncos during Round 5 of the 2024 season, going on to appear in five matches.
At just 22 years old, Te Kura briefly departed the NRL squad in April to participate in a six-week NFL training camp.
During this time, NFL agent Dwane Bugden noted that Te Kura demonstrated the potential to make it in the league after undergoing an intensive eight-week gridiron program on the Gold Coast.
With a height of 205cm, making him the tallest player in the NRL, Te Kura caught the attention of Bugden, who believes he could outperform even the seasoned 29-year-old rugby league junior and Super Bowl champion.
"Ben Te Kura has got it," Bugden expressed to the Courier Mail.
"He is absolutely good enough to play in the NFL."
"Athletically, he's every bit as good as Jordan Mailata, maybe even better."