Ex-Tiger Offers Dylan Brown Insight Amid Growing Scrutiny of $14 Million Knights Contract

In a sporting landscape where NRL athletes face relentless scrutiny regarding their pay packets, few have been under the spotlight quite like Manly’s Luke Brooks.

During his lengthy stint at the Wests Tigers, the five-eighth ranked among the highest earners in the league, yet he endured substantial criticism as the team struggled with poor performances.

Brooks commanded a salary close to $1 million annually in his later years at Concord, which coincided with several wooden spoons and numerous coaching shake-ups.

OPINION: $14m blown on the wrong player: Brown isn’t the solution for the Knights

Although the scrutiny surrounding Brooks has eased since his transition to the Sea Eagles last year, new target Dylan Brown, who is set to join the Knights, is now feeling the heat.

Recently, Brown secured the most lucrative contract in NRL history, departing the Eels for a 10-year deal with Newcastle worth an estimated $14 million.

Speaking to the media on Tuesday after the announcement of Brown’s deal, Brooks was queried about the unique pressures faced by a million-dollar marquee player in the NRL.

“Absolutely – being the highest-paid player brings a fair bit of pressure,” Brooks acknowledged.

“He seems like a guy who doesn’t let the pressure get to him. I wish him all the best – if someone is willing to pay you that much, it’s clearly reflective of your worth.

“I believe anyone in his position would jump at that opportunity.”

Tune into the 2025 NRL premiership live and free on Nine and 9Now.

While some fans are questioning Newcastle’s decision regarding the colossal price tag, critics of Brown have also made themselves heard, and the scrutiny will only intensify if his form falters.

However, Brooks suggests there’s a straightforward way to manage the external noise.

“You just get accustomed to it,” he remarked.

“For me, I just tried to filter it all out and not delve into any of it. That method worked for me, and I’m confident it will suit many others … just don’t dwell on it.

“The opinions that truly matter are those of the people close to you – your teammates and club staff. Those are the voices that resonate.

“If someone’s prepared to pay you that amount, it reflects your value. I believe that anyone who critiques him wouldn’t turn down a similar opportunity if they were in his place.”