Broncos Play Strategic Move to Secure Veteran halfback Amid Intense Competition

The Brisbane Broncos have made a calculated bid to bring veteran halfback Ben Hunt back to the club, leveraging a post-retirement job offer to sweeten the deal. This clever move could allow the Broncos to navigate salary cap challenges while keeping their bid competitive in a fierce race against the Dolphins, Bulldogs, and Roosters for the highly sought-after free agent.

After parting ways with the Dragons, who agreed to release him from the final year of his $950,000 contract, Hunt has become one of the most desirable players on the NRL market. Despite Hunt’s preference to stay in Sydney to avoid uprooting his family, the Bulldogs and Roosters are reportedly cooling on their pursuit, citing his age—he’ll be 35 by the start of the 2025 season—and his high price tag. Meanwhile, the Dolphins have made an aggressive $1.4 million offer spanning two years, placing further pressure on rivals.

The Broncos, however, have introduced a unique proposal that could tip the scales in their favor. They have reportedly offered Hunt a $1.1 million package, combined with a guaranteed role after his playing career. This approach takes advantage of an NRL salary cap provision that allows players transitioning into retirement to receive payments “off the cap” during their final year, provided the role and compensation are clearly documented and aligned with market standards. By structuring the deal in this way, the Broncos could offer Hunt an effective salary of $550,000 per season for the next two years—ensuring compliance with salary cap restrictions while saving room for star players like Reece Walsh, Payne Haas, Ezra Mam, and Patrick Carrigan, who are already on significant contracts.

Hunt, a beloved figure at the Broncos where he began his career, is no stranger to the club’s culture. This connection, coupled with the enticing off-field opportunity, could be the decisive factor in his next career move. With competition narrowing and Brisbane playing their “off-the-cap” card strategically, the Broncos appear to be positioning themselves as strong contenders to welcome Hunt back home.