The Brisbane Broncos are entering the 2025 NRL season with renewed optimism, anchored by strategic shifts, the return of key players, and the emergence of promising young talent. With former coach Kevin Walters weighing in on tactics and the significance of Las Vegas matches, the Broncos hope to capitalize on their revamped roster to contend for the premiership.
One of the most notable stories surrounding the Broncos is the return of Cory Paix, who found himself on the fringes under Kevin Walters, being told he was free to leave. Instead of taking the easy route, Paix decided to hold his ground, and after 526 days out of action, he is expected to play significant minutes under new coaching. This commitment showcases his resilience and dedication to the club, promising fans and analysts alike a player ready to contribute at the highest level.
Reflecting on his experiences, Walters recently shared insights about the unique challenges of taking NRL games to Las Vegas. "Las Vegas is a terrific opportunity for fans to get involved from around the world, and the biggest challenge for teams heading over there is the distractions, along with the completely different conditions of the field," he told news.com.au. The shorter dimensions of the Allegiant Stadium pitch, which measures 107.3m by 63.1m, require teams to adapt their strategies significantly — a factor Walters believes is integral for the Broncos’ success this season.
Walters emphasized the need for teams to prepare mentally and physically for the challenges presented by the Las Vegas setting, remarking, "I expect this year’s teams will have clearer game plans, but they will still have to make adjustments on the fly." The Broncos will be aiming to leverage this unique experience positively as they prepare to face the Sydney Roosters on March 6.
Another key dimension to the Broncos’ outlook for the upcoming season is the infusion of young talent. The anticipation surrounding 20-year-old prop Benjamin Te Kura continues to grow, as he has been named to start the trial match against Burleigh. A towering figure at 205cm, Te Kura's potential became evident during his limited appearances last season, where he managed to score against the formidable Melbourne team before succumbing to injury.
Justin Hodges, Broncos legend and assistant coach, heralded Te Kura’s strength and potential, saying, "If Ben can believe in himself and stay fit, he can be anything." He stressed the importance of Te Kura's self-confidence and highlighted how his size could create unique mismatches for opposing defenses, especially when coming off the bench.
Alongside Te Kura, 18-year-old halfback Coby Black is being groomed as the future playmaker, stepping up in the wake of veteran Adam Reynolds. Black has garnered admiration from teammates for his impressive work ethic and has been learning under the mentorship of seasoned players like Ben Hunt. Broncos center Delouise Hoeter stated, "With 'Madge' (Maguire), you’ve got to earn everything. He’ll have to prove himself and show he deserves the opportunity," stressing how meritocracy prevails within the team.
The upcoming trial against Burleigh is eagerly anticipated, as it will be the first test for both Te Kura and Black, allowing fans to see how the new generation can make their mark alongside established stars like Payne Haas and Pat Carrigan.
Further complicate this narrative is Walters’ belief about the broader NRL competition, where he posits the Broncos as potential dark horses to watch this season. "After the Panthers and Storm, I see the Broncos and Rabbitohs as two big improvers this year," he noted. Drawing from the club’s talent pool and expecting a boost from new coaching strategies, Walters remains optimistic about the changes taking root within the team.
While the competition promises to be fierce, the Broncos are strategically positioning themselves as not just contenders but as transformative forces capable of surprising the league. With modifying tactics for Las Vegas and nurturing home-grown talents, the team is painting its path with resilience, adaptation, and youth as cornerstones of its strategy.
Walters’ observations on potential challengers for the top-eight positions, including rising teams like the Dolphins and Titans, underline the unpredictable nature of the upcoming season, making the Broncos' pursuit of greatness even more thrilling.
The players are gearing up, the staff are strategizing, and the fans are optimistic. After facing difficulties last season, all eyes are now on the Brisbane Broncos as they not only look to redeem their past but also to set the standard for future NRL seasons. With the 2025 campaign looming, it’s clear the Broncos are ready to take the field and show just what they can accomplish.