LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
In a blow to the Broncos on the brink of the season, star centre Kotoni Staggs is set to miss the action for up to six weeks after scans revealed a quad injury suffered in their trial victory over the Bulldogs.
Staggs had to leave the field early and was unable to return, leaving the Broncos to face the prospect of being without their strike weapon for the start of the season.
Their first challenge will be a clash against the Roosters in Sydney on March 6.
Before Staggs' injury, coach Michael Maguire was already grappling with a selection dilemma as Deine Mariner and Gehamat Shibasaki were vying for the left centre spot.
With Staggs ruled out, both Mariner and Shibasaki are now expected to step up in his absence.
"Kotoni has unfortunately picked up a quad injury and will be undergoing rehab for the next 4-6 weeks with the team," revealed Broncos head of performance Dave Ballard.
"We have full confidence that he will put in the hard work to return to the field as soon as possible, and he has already begun his rehab program."
In addition to Staggs' setback, Jock Madden will also be unavailable for selection in round 1 due to a low-grade hamstring strain.
However, the Broncos can take solace in the fact that Payne Haas is on track to take on the Roosters in the season opener.