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It has been another busy offseason at Redhill for the Brisbane Broncos, with the departure of number of players including talented young gun Jayden Nikorima, James Gavet, the retirement of Justin Hodges, the surprise departure of Dale Copley and equally surprising arrival of James Roberts.
Assistant Coach Kevin Walters will also be adrift from the team in 2016 due to his new position has coach of the Queensland Origin team.
While many Broncos fans are still trying to forget the heartbreaking grand final loss to the Cowboys last year, I still find myself pondering the question of whether they can go one better this season.
If the betting markets are anything to go by the Broncos will be raising the trophy come October, the TAB currently has them as firm favourites at $4.50, their closest rivals are Manly and North Queensland at $7.50 respectively.
Do they have the talent? Absolutely! While the loss of Justin Hodges is massive, not only for his on-field talent but his leadership on and off the field, I feel the recruitment of James Roberts will most certainly add another dynamic to an already classy backline.
Hunt and Milford will continue to grow and build on an effervescent halves combination, while the return of Moose McGuire will add more firepower up front. I expect to see Adam Blair continue his outstanding form, while the ageless Corey Parker and Sam Thaiday will provide the leadership and guidance that is lost with Hodges’ departure. Darius Boyd will step up in 2016 and add a greater level of stability at the back.
With the master coach Wayne Bennett at the helm anything is possible. it will no doubt be another season that is built on the back of solid defence, however with the flare of the likes of Milford and Roberts I think we could be in for some exciting football.
Another heavy offseason, including the Auckland Nines, travelling to England for the World Club Series against the Wigan Warriors and trials against the Cowboys, Norths Devils and Souths-Logan will be testing for the players. However, they should be well and truly match ready come Round 1 and their trip to Sydney to play the Eels.
If the Broncos can remain somewhat injury free and continue to perform during the dreaded Origin period, I think they are definitely genuine contenders. The way the 2015 season ended will definitely be in the back of each of their minds.
Bring on the season ahead.
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