The Brisbane Broncos have confirmed a wave of roster changes as they prepare for the 2026 NRL season, officially farewelling three senior players while uncertainty hangs over the futures of several more.
Club Stalwarts Say Goodbye
Veteran winger Corey Oates has called time on his career, retiring after more than a decade in Brisbane colours. Oates, a Queensland Origin representative and one-club man, leaves behind a legacy of over 200 NRL appearances and countless highlights.
Joining him in retirement is Jordan Pereira, whose toughness and reliability made him a valued squad member since his arrival from St George Illawarra. Meanwhile, utility back Tristan Sailor has been granted a release to join St Helens in the Super League, seeking greater opportunity abroad.
More Exits Looming?
Beyond those confirmed departures, the Broncos face a nervous wait on the futures of several off-contract players. Among them are Herbie Farnworth, Thomas Flegler, and Keenan Palasia, all previously linked to rival clubs. While no deals have been finalised, their names continue to swirl in recruitment discussions.
Squad depth is also under review, with Ethan Quai-Ward already having shifted mid-season to the Bulldogs, while Logan Bayliss-Brow, Brendan Frei, Josh Rogers, and Tyson Smoothy remain unsigned for 2025.
Broncos at a Crossroads
The confirmed departures leave coach Kevin Walters and his staff with tough choices as the Broncos look to build stability around star halfback Adam Reynolds and dynamic fullback Reece Walsh.
While Oates and Pereira’s retirements open the door for younger outside backs, speculation continues that the Broncos could be forced into a mini-rebuild if more senior talent heads for the exit.
What’s Next
Broncos CEO Dave Donaghy has stressed that the club is focused on retention and pathways, backing their production line of young talent to fill the voids left by departing veterans. However, the uncertainty surrounding as many as six off-contract players means the roster for 2025 is far from settled.
One thing is certain: as the club pushes for a return to premiership glory, the Broncos’ depth and recruitment decisions over the coming months will be under greater scrutiny than ever before.
