Ezra Mam's return to the NRL has been put on hold as the Brisbane Broncos have opted to ease him back into competitive play through the Queensland Cup. After serving a nine-match suspension for drug-driving, Mam is set to make his comeback on Sunday, May 11, 2025, playing for the Souths-Logan Magpies against the Townsville Blackhawks.
The 22-year-old playmaker's suspension followed a serious incident on October 18, 2024, when he crashed into an Uber-registered vehicle, injuring the driver and two passengers, including a young girl. In court, Mam pleaded guilty to driving under the influence of drugs and without a license, receiving a fine of $850 and a six-month disqualification from driving. Additionally, he was fined $120,000 by both the NRL and the Brisbane Broncos.
Despite the end of his suspension, Broncos coach Michael Maguire has decided to take a cautious approach regarding Mam's return to the NRL. The decision comes in light of the Broncos' recent 32-8 loss to the Penrith Panthers during the Magic Round, where Mam faced boos from fans when his image appeared on the big screen at Suncorp Stadium.
Maguire stated, "(Mam) will be ready to play if he was called upon," but emphasized the importance of ensuring he is fully prepared before returning to the elite level. Broncos captain Adam Reynolds echoed this sentiment, saying, "It would be wrong of us to just stick him out there and think he can do the job straight away. The NRL is pretty tough, and it’s demanding." Reynolds expressed confidence in Mam's ability to regain his form, noting that he is in a good headspace and eager to improve his game.
While Mam has remained engaged with the Broncos, attending home games and training since January 7, 2025, the club acknowledges that he will face a challenging reception from fans upon his eventual return. The mixed reactions are indicative of the divisive nature of his past actions, and Reynolds remarked, "Fans and everyone will have their opinions and rightfully so, but we stick by Ezra and stand by him."
After a stellar junior career with the Goodna Eagles and a successful stint with the Souths-Logan Magpies, where he was named Queensland Cup rookie of the year in 2021, Mam made his NRL debut in 2022 against Newcastle. He showcased his talent during the 2023 season, scoring three tries in the grand final, although the Broncos fell short against Penrith.
As Mam prepares for his return in the Queensland Cup, he will be partnered with either rising star Coby Black or veteran Anthony Milford, a move that Reynolds believes will serve Mam's best interests. The Broncos are currently fifth in the league standings, with a record of 5-4, and the team is looking to regain momentum after their recent defeat.
In the lead-up to the clash against the Rabbitohs on Friday, May 9, 2025, the team has made several adjustments to their lineup. Notably, superstar fullback Latrell Mitchell returns from suspension, while Jamie Humphreys rejoins the squad after recovering from a hamstring injury. Siliva Havili will start at hooker in place of Peter Mamouzelos, who is sidelined due to an elbow issue.
As the Broncos navigate their path forward, Mam's journey back to the NRL will be closely watched, not only by fans but also by his teammates who have expressed their unwavering support. Broncos centre Kotoni Staggs remarked, "Everybody makes mistakes. He has learned. We have always had his back from day one when it all went down."
With Mam's return to the field on the horizon, the Broncos are hopeful that he can contribute positively, both on and off the field. As they prepare for the upcoming matches, the focus will be on building team cohesion and regaining their competitive edge in the league.
In closing, while Mam's immediate future lies in the Queensland Cup, his potential return to the NRL is a topic of great interest as the Broncos aim to bounce back from their recent struggles and push for a successful season.
