LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Brisbane Broncos forward Kobe Hetherington is poised to become one of the first signings for the Perth Bears after reportedly declining a second-year option on his contract extension to stay in Brisbane.
Hetherington, who has excelled in 17 games this season, has been versatile, playing as both a lock and prop forward, and even at dummy half.
While the club has not yet officially announced it, sources from News Corp indicate that Hetherington has signed a one-year extension, securing his place in Brisbane for the 2026 season.
Following that, he will become a free agent on November 1, allowing him to explore options for 2027 and beyond.
Despite interest from several Sydney clubs, particularly the St George Illawarra Dragons and Wests Tigers, Hetherington has chosen to remain with the Broncos.
He is expected to be a key player on Michael Maguire's bench when the team is fully fit.