LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Broncos powerhouse Payne Haas has stepped up to address the recent concerns surrounding emerging star Reece Walsh, brushing off worries about his fitness levels.
Haas, known for his hard-hitting plays on the field, reassured fans that Walsh has never looked better during pre-season training.
The young fullback raised eyebrows this week when he struggled to keep up with his teammates in a grueling fitness test.
Under the watchful eye of new Broncos coach Michael Maguire, the team has been put through the ringer in intense training sessions, battling the sweltering Brisbane heat to prepare for the upcoming NRL season.
However, reports from sports reporter Ted Roker revealed that Walsh, along with Selwyn Cobbo and Martin Taupau, fell behind during a crucial fitness assessment on Monday.
While Kiwi international Jordan Riki led the charge after returning from national duty, Walsh, Cobbo, and veteran Taupau appeared to lag behind the pack.
On the flip side, Jock Madden and Billy Walters impressed by keeping pace near the front, despite Madden's uncertain future with the club following Ben Hunt's arrival.
Walters, facing uncertainty due to his father's recent departure as coach, may find his position under threat as Hunt potentially takes over the hooker role when Mam is ready to play again.