LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Ezra Mam admits he could be facing another tough situation over an off-season drug-driving saga, with the Uber driver involved in the crash with the Brisbane star launching legal proceedings.
And Broncos coach Michael Maguire has shed light on his decision to shake things up that led to Patrick Carrigan losing his vice-captaincy.
Mam was hit with a nine-game ban and a hefty $120,000 fine by the NRL after the incident in October last year, where he was caught driving unlicensed and under the influence of cocaine.
The Brisbane five-eighth also received an $850 fine and a six-month driving disqualification, sparking mixed reactions from the rugby league community.
The 22-year-old spent time in a rehabilitation facility before rejoining Maguire and the Broncos for pre-season training, aiming to move past the troubling ordeal.
But the Uber driver, Marcel Van Den Camp, who was hurt in the crash alongside a mother and her child, has initiated legal action against Mam's third-party insurance provider.
Van Den Camp is seeking compensation for his injuries and lost income, citing a diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
There are indications that Mam's insurer might take action against him if it's proven that his drug use led to the accident and violated the terms of his policy.
"In terms of those matters...
we'll deal with them as they come up," Mam commented on the legal predicament.
"For now, I'm focused on bettering myself and contributing positively to the club." In his first candid interview since issuing a public apology for the incident, Mam expressed his initial fears that his lucrative contract with Brisbane would be terminated, and his time with the Broncos cut short.
"I'd be kidding myself if I said I wasn't concerned," Mam acknowledged.
"I'm just thankful that I've been given a chance to continue with the Brisbane Broncos, and I'm determined to show my gratitude by making the most of this second opportunity.
It's all about personal growth from here on out."