Brisbane Broncos’ new head coach, Michael Maguire, is already making his mark on the club’s lineup as star Queensland Origin winger Selwyn Cobbo officially enters the NRL free agent market. The Broncos missed the November 1 deadline to extend Cobbo’s contract, allowing him to explore options with other teams as the 2025 season approaches.
Despite several clubs showing interest, Cobbo’s preference remains to stay with the Broncos and continue his career in Brisbane.
“He doesn’t want to leave,” said his manager, Tas Bartlett. “I’ve always thought Selwyn should be a Bronco for life, and he loves the club. We’re hoping to work something out.”
Still, with Cobbo now open to other offers, the Broncos must act quickly and strategically to keep him in Brisbane.
Head coach Michael Maguire has been vocal about his desire to retain Cobbo, highlighting the winger’s potential. “I have a high opinion of Selwyn,” Maguire said. “At his best, he’s a representative player, and with the right mindset, he has a bright future at the Broncos.”
In addition to re-signing Cobbo, the Broncos face a slew of upcoming contract negotiations, with close to $4 million worth of talent coming off contract by the end of 2025. This includes veteran halfback Adam Reynolds, likely to retire, and key forwards Fletcher Baker, Jaiyden Hunt, Jack Gosiewski, and Corey Jensen.
Rising players like Kotoni Staggs, Blake Mozer, and Kobe Hetherington could also seek raises or explore opportunities elsewhere, adding further pressure to the club’s salary cap.
Acknowledging the complexities of Cobbo’s situation, Bartlett clarified that market competition wouldn’t affect his price. “The open market doesn’t drive his price up,” he said. “We know his value, and so do the clubs. Maguire just wants to get to know him better, which makes sense.”
The Broncos recently extended young forward Xavier Willison’s contract, securing depth but adding another layer of financial challenge as they work to keep their roster strong for 2025.
