The Brisbane Broncos are undergoing significant changes as they prepare for the next season, including the recent acquisition of Dane Gagai from the Newcastle Knights.
Following a dismal 14th-place finish in the NRL standings, the team is losing nine players, including Adam Reynolds and Corey Jensen, who are retiring. Other notable departures include Payne Haas and Gehamat Shibasaki.
The Broncos are taking steps to reshape their roster by signing Gagai, Mitch Barnett, Jonah Pezet, and Shawn Blore for 2027. In addition, they have extended contracts for Ben Hunt, Billy Walters, and Hayze Perham.
Furthermore, reports indicate that Wilson De Courcey will also join Gagai in leaving the Knights. The 20-year-old centre debuted in Round 5 against Canberra but performed better in the NSW Cup, where he scored 33 tries in 35 games.
De Courcey is reportedly set to join the Broncos on a two-year deal starting in 2027. He will compete for a position in the backline alongside Gagai, Kotoni Staggs, and others.
Michael Maguire, the Knights' coach, expressed a desire for additional senior players to support their young talent. "Realistically, I'd like one more senior player to help there," he stated, acknowledging the need for improved depth.
Concluding a disappointing season, the Broncos celebrated a 34-20 victory against the Bulldogs. This win marked only their eighth of the season, the lowest for any defending premiers since 1981.
Maguire noted the necessity of moving forward and building upon the highs of their previous championship season while addressing current challenges. "We've pushed hard...they understand the highs of 12 months and then this period," he commented.