LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Former Brisbane Broncos player Andrew McCullough has cautioned the club against presenting star prop Payne Haas with a long-term, lucrative contract.
Haas, who is set to be off-contract at the end of 2026, recently expressed uncertainty about his future with the Broncos.
Despite being regarded as one of the best props in the game, Haas had a turbulent period where he requested a release from the club before eventually re-signing on a deal reportedly exceeding $1 million per season until 2026.
With Haas becoming eligible to negotiate with other teams from November 1, the likelihood of him signing a new contract with the Broncos before that date appears slim.
The Manly Sea Eagles have already expressed interest in acquiring Haas if he remains unsigned by the November deadline, while speculation suggests that the Broncos are contemplating offering him a lengthy ten-year deal to secure his loyalty until the end of his career.
McCullough's warning stems from concerns about the potential repercussions of locking Haas into such a lengthy contract.
While acknowledging Haas' talent and value to the team, McCullough emphasized the risks associated with committing to a player for such an extended period.
He cautioned that circumstances can change rapidly in the sporting world, and what appears to be a wise investment today may become a burden in the future.
By advising against a mega-deal for Haas, McCullough is urging the Broncos to exercise prudence and consider the long-term implications of their decision.
As the club navigates negotiations with Haas and weighs the possibility of securing his services for the long haul, McCullough's counsel serves as a reminder of the importance of strategic planning and financial responsibility in player contracts.
Ultimately, the Broncos will need to carefully evaluate their options and weigh the potential benefits against the risks before finalizing any agreement with Haas.