Darren Lockyer’s Warning: Broncos Salary Cap Struggles May Cast Doubt on Adam Reynolds’ Future

Darren Lockyer has suggested that Adam Reynolds’ future at the Brisbane Broncos may require the club to make significant sacrifices, as the ongoing selection dilemma lingers.

With Reynolds nearing the end of his contract this season, retirement seemed imminent; however, he has expressed a desire to extend his career for another year.

The Broncos are currently grappling with selection issues in their starting line-up, as coach Michael Maguire has secured key players on lucrative contracts for upcoming seasons.

Yet, the need to navigate their restrictive salary cap could pose challenges should Reynolds seek to negotiate an extension for the next season.

Forecasts for each club’s budget likely took player movements into account ahead of each season, yet Reynolds’ future appears to have been overlooked in the Broncos’ financial planning.

“When you’re at a club and you anticipate your halfback retiring, you begin to strategise around that,” Lockyer, a director at the Broncos, shared during an analysis on Nine following the club’s loss to the Roosters.

“It really depends on what Adam Reynolds wants for his playing future.”

Phil Gould interjected: “So that’s a no… It appears this isn’t something the Broncos have factored into their budgeting, is it?”

Lockyer responded, “No, but he’s the kind of player for whom you would need to adjust your plans accordingly.”

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Maguire’s team has been experimenting with various combinations in the spine, with players like Billy Walters, Corey Paix, and Ezra Mam competing for game time.

While Mam will not be eligible to return until round 10 due to suspension, he is anticipated to reclaim the five-eighth position upon his return.

This transition will likely see Reynolds pairing up with the young talent in the halves, while Ben Hunt will switch to the No.9 jersey, putting Paix’s spot in jeopardy.

This complex scenario does not even factor in Walters, who has been a consistent presence for the team throughout the 2024 season.

Looking ahead to the 2026 season, Lockyer noted that the halfback pairing is likely to feature a player from the junior system.

“Experienced halfbacks are a rare commodity in the game; you either trust what you have in your junior ranks or you search the market for a suitable replacement,” he stated.

“Following Adam, Ben Hunt is here for another year, and there’s a young player named Coby Black who is still developing his skills.

“Ezra is a six, and Ben Hunt is versatile enough to play nine. There’s also Corey Paix and Billy Walters to consider for starting positions.”

“This year will be crucial in clarifying a few things regarding the selection decisions.”

Despite the potential issue with the salary cap, the Queensland legend acknowledged the Broncos would be willing to implement changes to ensure that Reynolds’ final games are not played in a rival jersey.

“Around this time last year, Adam Reynolds indicated that he would retire after this season,” Lockyer remarked.

“However, he has started this season strongly, secured some wins, and is performing well under a new coach. Now, he has signalled that he wants to go on. He has every right to change his mind.

“I know he has the capability to continue, as his kicking, passing, and game management skills are incredibly hard to find.”

“Ultimately, only he can determine whether he feels capable of maintaining this level of performance.”