LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Former NRL player Denan Kemp has dismissed the idea that Payne Haas would leave the Brisbane Broncos to join the Perth Bears, despite speculation surrounding the potential for a $2 million contract.
Haas is set to be a free agent at the end of 2026, coinciding with the Bears' entry into the league in 2027, sparking interest in him as a marquee signing.
Other players like Jahrome Hughes, Ryan Papenhuyzen, and Selwyn Cobbo are also rumored to be targets, with AAP noting that Papenhuyzen is a 'prime target.'
Speaking on SEN radio, Kemp highlighted Haas's focus on winning a premiership rather than chasing a lucrative deal.
He stated, "They talk about Haas going, but Payne Haas can get paid $1 million and win a premiership somewhere else.
Surely that's what he's thinking with his next contract - winning a premiership.
You'd have to go as high as $2 million because why would you go and spend the rest of your career in Perth, when he could even be a cross-code star (in rugby).
That's how many options Payne has, and I don't see that happening (signing with the Bears)."
Haas's personal circumstances add complexity to a potential move; both of his parents are incarcerated, and he is the legal guardian for two younger brothers, Hans and Geejay, who are still in school.
Additionally, he has two young children with his partner, Leilani - three-year-old Lalita and five-month-old Luckee - which would necessitate relocating his entire family if he moved interstate.
Leilani has previously praised Haas for his remarkable resilience amid their challenging situation.