Brisbane Broncos' towering forward, Ben Te Kura, has received permission to step away from his NRL contract as he pursues a chance in the NFL.
Standing at an impressive 205 centimeters, Te Kura is the tallest player in the NRL and was granted a six-week leave in April for a training camp.
At that time, the Broncos revealed that there had been "long-term interest from the NFL," indicating that he would either rejoin the Broncos' training or the club would allow a longer absence to support his aspirations in the NFL.
Having made his NRL debut in 2024, Te Kura has played only five games due to ongoing injuries, and he has yet to step onto the field this season, with three appearances in the Queensland Cup for Wynnum Manly.
"I'm very grateful to the Broncos for everything they've done to support me in pursuing an opportunity in the NFL," Te Kura expressed.
Reflecting on his debut, he noted, "Making my NRL debut for the Broncos against the Storm in 2024 was such an unbelievable moment for myself and my family."
"I owe the club so much for the faith they've had in me right from day one," he added.
Te Kura is now preparing to travel to Arizona to aim for a spot in the NFL, with football manager Troy Thomson stating that the Broncos fully support his endeavor.
"This is an incredible opportunity, and one we felt was important to help facilitate," Thomson remarked.