LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The Titans are poised to feature a lesser-known former Panther in their Round 1 lineup, as an outside back has made a significant impression during the pre-season.
In a major advantage for the Dolphins and the NRL, star prop Tom Flegler is set to return from a shoulder injury that nearly ended his career.
BRONCOS
1. Reece Walsh 2. Deine Mariner 3. Kotoni Staggs 4. Gehamat Shibasaki 5. Josiah Karapani 6. Ezra Mam 7. Adam Reynolds 8. Corey Jensen 9. Ben Hunt 10. Payne Haas 11. Brendan Piakura 12. Jordan Riki 13. Patrick Carrigan 14. Cory Paix 15. Ben Talty 16. Xavier Willison 17. Ben Te Kura
Analysis: Why change a winning formula? Coach Michael Maguire might consider some adjustments in Round 1 of the 2026 season by reinstating Ezra Mam to the starting lineup and moving Ben Hunt to hooker. With Billy Walters sidelined due to an ACL injury and unlikely to return until at least Round 16, grand final hooker Cory Paix may retain the No.14 spot before facing competition from Blake Mozer, who could also make his first appearance as the long-term hooker. Tyson Smoothy has confirmed his move to Super League, signing a three-year deal with Wakefield Trinity, and this will open up a position on the bench for Ben Talty, who was omitted from the grand final. The 205cm prop Ben Te Kura is likely to join the bench rotation, particularly with Kobe Hetherington leaving for Manly. Fletcher Baker's move to Canterbury, after struggling to secure a spot in Brisbane's first-grade team, also influences the bench dynamics. Te Kura will face strong competition from new Dolphins player Aublix Tawha for a seat on the bench. Additionally, Grant Anderson may put pressure on wing positions occupied by Josiah Karapani and Deine Mariner, following his transfer from Storm. However, the status of forward Brendan Piakura is uncertain as the club has revealed he underwent surgery for a meniscus tear.