Michael Maguire Criticised for Dropping Broncos ‘Fall Guy’ Selwyn Cobbo

Brisbane legend Justin Hodges has taken a swipe at coach Michael Maguire as the Broncos prepare to drop Selwyn Cobbo from the squad.

Cobbo, who celebrated his 23rd birthday this week, was initially named to start on the wing for Saturday’s match against the Gold Coast. However, reports suggest he has been excluded from the lineup.

The back had begun the season in his preferred wing position for the first seven games, before shifting to fullback in response to an injury to Reece Walsh.

Two weeks ago, Cobbo lost the No. 1 jersey to Jesse Arthars, who made an unexpected fullback appearance. With Walsh’s return to the side, Cobbo now finds himself out of contention.

It’s a remarkable setback for the tall utility back, who was recently touted as a potential million-dollar player in the NRL market.

The Broncos have struggled recently, losing six out of their last seven matches, leading Maguire to make significant changes to the backline, though his choice of dropping Cobbo has raised eyebrows.

“At the end of the day, (Cobbo is) playing on the wing,” remarked legendary centre Hodges during a discussion on Fox League on Thursday night.

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“If you’re dropping a winger, it doesn’t seem to add up.

“I think he’s been decent in a team that hasn’t really fired.

“I’m not convinced about this decision. It seems more logical to drop someone else first.”

NRL great James Graham also scrutinised Maguire regarding the decision to sideline Cobbo.

“To make Selwyn Cobbo the scapegoat for those performances seems unjust and incorrect,” Graham stated on Triple M.

“Selwyn Cobbo is not the issue.”

This decision to drop him will likely put an end to Cobbo’s chances of being selected for Queensland’s State of Origin team.

Although left out of Billy Slater’s squad for the first match, a stellar performance against the Titans could have put him back in contention, especially after the Maroons’ heavy defeat.

Cobbo remains unsigned for 2026, but his management is optimistic about securing a new deal with Brisbane.

Rumours suggest he could command a lucrative contract should he enter the market and consider offers from rival teams.