In a move that has left fans, pundits, and even some teammates reeling, Brisbane Broncos star fullback Reece Walsh has made a shock mid-season decision that could alter the club’s trajectory heading into the NRL finals.
Walsh, 23, revealed exclusively today that he will take an immediate one-week mental health break, citing the intense pressure of the season and a desire to “reset before the finals charge.”
> “I’ve been pushing myself hard this year — mentally, physically, emotionally — and I knew I had to speak up before it got too much,” Walsh said in a press conference at Red Hill this morning. “This isn’t me stepping back, it’s me stepping up for my future.”
The announcement comes just days before a crucial matchup against the Penrith Panthers — a game with significant top-four implications. While Broncos coach Kevin Walters supported the decision, it’s clear the timing adds a layer of complexity to the club’s preparations.
> “We back Reece 100%,” Walters said. “He’s shown tremendous courage. We’ll adjust, and the rest of the squad is ready to step up.”
Fans have flooded social media with mixed reactions — many praising Walsh for his honesty, while others express concern about the team’s ability to maintain momentum.
The NRL has seen a growing number of players prioritize mental health in recent seasons, with Walsh’s decision potentially sparking broader discussions about wellness in elite sport.
Walsh is expected to return in Round 25 and has vowed to come back “sharper, stronger, and hungrier than ever.”
