The Broncos need one thing more than extra grunt up front or more speed out wide in 2024.
Brisbane needs a world-class sports psychologist who can somehow erase the mental scars of the disastrous finish to last season.
Kevin Walters’ men played superbly for the first 60 minutes of the biggest game of their lives, having one hand on the trophy at 24-8 in the grand final.
The Brisbane players have had to live with that capitulation all summer and the best thing for them will be getting back out on the field again in Vegas and somehow starting again, putting the October 1 horror show behind them.
It’s easier said than done, however… most teams when they get 16 points up with 20 minutes to play can relax and enjoy themselves, coasting to victory.
The Broncos have learned that they are never safe in the NRL and there will be many anxious moments as they attempt to close down games in the coming months.
The salary cap hit the Broncos hard over the summer, with three of their most talented players in Herbie Farnworth (Dolphins), Tom Flegler (Dolphins) and Kurt Capewell (Warriors) heading for greener pastures, as well as one of their best young prospects in Keenan Palasia (Titans).
In return, they have signed just one player – Fletcher Baker – who struggled to make the Roosters team on a weekly basis.
With such a talented roster, rival clubs are certain to come raiding again for 2025 but at least grand final star Ezra Mam is safely under lock and key.
Cap management will be crucial to the Broncos in coming seasons with a young side containing so many fine up-and-comers ripe for the picking.
