LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The Brisbane Broncos are facing the need to cut several players from their top-30 roster to retain veteran halfback Adam Reynolds, who plans to continue playing into the 2026 season.
Previously, the club aimed for Reynolds' retirement at the end of 2025, which would have alleviated some salary cap constraints.
However, with Reynolds eager to extend his career, the Broncos now have to adjust their financial plans.
Initially, the Broncos hoped to re-sign the 34-year-old for around $300,000, but it's anticipated that the NRL will require a salary closer to $500,000 due to his status as a non-one-club player, limiting the salary cap relief the team can receive.
Reports indicate that Brisbane is negotiating a new contract with Reynolds and is "prepared to offload several off-contract top-liners to table a new deal for their skipper."
As the end of 2025 approaches, 13 players, including notable names like Selwyn Cobbo and Kotoni Staggs, will be off-contract.
While a new deal for Staggs is nearly finalized, Cobbo's future remains uncertain.
Speculation suggests he may opt for a short-term extension before exploring opportunities elsewhere, potentially in Perth or Papua New Guinea.
The Broncos may be more inclined to release players such as Kobe Hetherington, Cory Paix, and Delouise Hoeter to secure funds for Reynolds.
Coach Michael Maguire expressed his optimism, stating, "I would love to see 'Reyno' go on.
I don't see any reason why he can't keep going on next season and I'm confident we will find a way to keep him." The situation highlights the difficult decisions the Broncos must navigate as they balance maintaining a competitive roster while accommodating Reynolds' contract demands.