LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Brisbane Broncos legend Darren Lockyer has dismissed the idea of offering Payne Haas a new 10-year deal, describing it as "crazy" due to the risks involved.
Haas, who has been a standout player in the NRL this season, will become a free agent on November 1 if he doesn't sign an extension with Brisbane before then.
While former Broncos great Corey Parker suggested that Brisbane should lock Haas down with a long-term deal, citing his value in the market, Lockyer believes that such a contract could pose a significant risk, especially for a forward like Haas who faces the physical demands of NRL football each week.
Lockyer pointed to the example of the 10-year deal the Cowboys offered Jason Taumalolo as a cautionary tale, emphasizing the injuries that often plague players later in their careers.
He and fellow Queensland legend Wally Lewis agree that while Haas may be worth the investment, the potential risks associated with a lengthy contract outweigh the rewards.
Lockyer highlighted Haas' recent struggles with injuries, noting that while he has been a consistent performer in the past, there is no guarantee that he will remain injury-free over the course of a decade.
Lockyer's concerns are grounded in his understanding of the toll that NRL football takes on players, particularly forwards like Haas who endure physical punishment on a regular basis.
Despite recognizing Haas' talent and potential, Lockyer believes that a shorter-term deal would be a safer and more prudent approach for the Broncos to take.
Haas' recent ankle surgery in January, which threatened to sideline him at the start of the season, serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of injuries in rugby league.
Lockyer's cautionary words serve as a reminder of the complexities involved in contract negotiations in professional sports, urging clubs to weigh the risks and rewards carefully before committing to long-term deals.