LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Queensland coach Billy Slater made a significant decision to transition Patrick Carrigan back to his preferred lock position.
This move has sparked renewed calls for Broncos coach Michael Maguire to follow suit as pressure mounts due to the team's struggles, having lost five games out of their last six after a loss to the Dragons.
The Broncos have faced persistent issues, particularly in the second half of games, leading to fan demands for a change.
One major talking point has been Carrigan's role within the team.
Carrigan initially made his name as a top lock in the NRL, which earned him a spot in the Origin team.
Under Slater, he has excelled in that position, solidifying his role in the Queensland 13.
However, last year he was moved to prop for the Australian side during the Pacific Championships, a position Maguire has continued to use him in with the Broncos.
While Carrigan has performed admirably at prop alongside teammate Payne Haas, his contributions as a lock, particularly in ball-playing, have been sorely missed.
His current role has involved more physical work, which has also allowed Maguire to utilize Kobe Hetherington in the lock position.
Unfortunately, Hetherington has had a limited impact on offense, being primarily used for defensive purposes.
Broncos legend Corey Parker recently pointed out the need for Carrigan and Haas to diversify their attack, noting that Carrigan passed the ball only three times after engaging the defense in a recent match.
Playing Carrigan at prop has also limited game time for Xavier Willison in the middle.
Following their latest defeat, the demand for Carrigan to return to the lock position has intensified.
Slater's decision to move Carrigan back to lock highlights the ongoing struggles and the need for tactical adjustments within the Broncos.