EXCLUSIVE: Broncos Director Darren Lockyer Addresses the Ezra Mam Controversy Following Roosters Defeat

Brisbane icon Darren Lockyer has advised young star Ezra Mam to closely observe his seasoned teammates during his nine-game suspension.

After being handed the ban and a $120,000 fine by the NRL for pleading guilty to driving with a relevant drug in his system and driving without a licence following a car accident in October, Mam will not be eligible to play until round ten.

The 22-year-old was on the brink of claiming a Clive Churchill Medal in the 2023 grand final, only for his efforts to be thwarted by Nathan Cleary’s Panthers amidst a tumultuous finish.

Recognised as one of the rising talents in the league, Mam secured a five-year contract extension worth approximately $4 million last February.

However, his fortunes took a turn as his performance dipped and the Broncos missed the finals, leading to the coach’s sacking, all while he narrowly avoided jail time.

The Broncos have brought in experienced playmaker Ben Hunt, who, alongside fellow veteran Adam Reynolds, recently masterminded a stunning 50-14 victory over the Roosters to kick off the season under new coach Michael Maguire.

Hunt had suggested he would move to hooker when Mam returns to the No.6 jersey, but with competition from Cory Paix, Billy Walters, Blake Mozer, and Tyson Smoothy vying for the No.9 position, Red Hill is bustling with talent in key positions.

On Channel Nine’s QLDER, Lockyer was questioned about whether Mam might face challenges returning to the line-up.

“That feels like a conversation too early to have,” Lockyer remarked.

“There’s still a long road ahead, and a great deal can occur before then with the existing combinations in play.

“What’s encouraging is that Ezra is evidently devoted to his physical and mental rehabilitation and is making solid progress.

“His chance to re-enter the team will arise, but the timeline remains uncertain.

“In the meantime, I would encourage Ezra to observe how this combination functions and gain insight from it.”

During his suspension, Mam is prohibited from participating in any level of rugby league, though he can train with the Broncos.

Lockyer believes the young playmaker could potentially step straight back into first-grade without having played any matches during his ban.

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“It revolves around a couple of factors—how the first-grade team is faring, his physical condition, and the trust the coach has in his ability to play NRL immediately,” he said.

“That decision is best made as we approach that point.”

Hunt and Reynolds form the oldest starting halves combination in the NRL for almost thirty years.

In their last performance against the Roosters, they skilfully managed the game, leading Brisbane to score nine tries at a rain-soaked Allianz Stadium.

“They truly comprehend what the team requires from each player and are willing to fulfil that role,” Lockyer remarked.

“I found their performance to be exceptionally composed. They worked well together and complemented each other’s strengths.

“There were definitely positive indicators. Although it was just one match, the signs had appeared during the trials.

The key now is for the players to stay grounded. There were many commendable aspects to appreciate.”

Next up, the Broncos will head to Canberra to face the Raiders on Saturday.