LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The Brisbane Broncos are currently facing a tough situation after missing out on the NRL finals in 2024.
This disappointing outcome comes just a year after they were so close to clinching the premiership in 2023, only to be thwarted by a remarkable comeback led by Nathan Cleary.
Expectations were high for Kevin Walters' team this season, with many believing they would use their heartbreak from last year as fuel to come back stronger.
Some even tipped them to be premiership contenders.
However, things have taken a different turn this year, as the Broncos have failed to make the finals for the third time in four seasons.
There's a prevailing belief in the rugby league world that the players may have become too complacent and started believing their own hype.
Former Wallaby Greg Martin even criticized the team, referring to them as 'poncy rock star' players more interested in their social media presence than their on-field performances.
Injuries have also plagued the Broncos in 2024, with key players like Reece Walsh, Adam Reynolds, Payne Haas, and Ezra Mam spending significant time on the sidelines.
However, there's a growing sentiment that the players' inflated egos due to their popularity and hype in recent years have hindered their performance on the field.
As the Broncos reflect on what went wrong this season, it's clear that they have some soul-searching to do to get back on track and reclaim their former glory.