Broncos’ Hopes Diminish as Top NRL Club Eyes Two-Year Deal for Ben Hunt
The Brisbane Broncos’ chances of acquiring Ben Hunt have taken a hit, as the Dolphins have become the first team to officially express interest in the former St George Illawarra captain, with a major Sydney club also emerging as a strong contender. The Dragons made headlines on Wednesday by announcing they had mutually agreed to terminate Hunt’s $950,000 contract, which still had a year remaining.
At 34 years old, the halfback was granted permission by the Dragons to explore his options following media comments that made his future at the club uncertain. After spending seven seasons with the Dragons, Hunt has been vocal about his desire to end his career in Queensland, where he and his wife are from.
Hunt seemingly fell out of favor with coach Shane Flanagan last season, who indirectly criticized him after the club’s announcement. “No player or coach is bigger than the club,” Flanagan stated. “This decision allows us to progress in our recruitment for the future, and I’m confident about what lies ahead. While Ben is a talented player, we are dedicated to finding the right solutions moving forward.”
The Dragons’ surprising announcement has made Hunt the most sought-after free agent in the NRL, prompting the Dolphins to quickly declare their interest, despite having a solid lineup of halfbacks, including Isaiya Katoa, Kodi Nikorima, and Sean O’Sullivan.
Dolphins CEO Terry Reader mentioned, “We’ve always shown interest in quality players. We only found out about Ben Hunt’s situation from the media today and haven’t contacted him or his management yet, but if he’s interested, we’re open to discussions.”
Although the Broncos have also been linked to Hunt, salary cap issues could hinder any potential deal, especially depending on the outcome of Ezra Mam’s situation. Mam is currently in rehab following a car accident that resulted in injuries to another driver and two passengers. He is awaiting the results of a second drug test after allegedly failing a roadside test while driving without a license.
League legend Scott Sattler has cast doubt on the Broncos’ chances of signing Hunt, suggesting instead that they pursue Sharks playmaker Braydon Trindall, who is set to enter the open market on November 1 after impressing this season.
Sattler noted, “Although I can see the appeal of Hunt to the Broncos, I believe they should focus on Trindall for the 2026 season. He’s young and has proven himself capable in the absence of former Dally M Medal winner Nicho Hynes.”
The Sydney Roosters have also emerged as a top contender for Hunt’s services. With ample salary cap space following the departures of stars like Joey Manu, Luke Keary, Joseph Suaalii, and Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, the Roosters have signed veteran halfback Chad Townsend for 2025 but will miss the injured Sam Walker for the early part of the season.
Sattler believes Hunt could be an excellent fit for the Roosters, forming a potent halves combination with Walker upon his return from injury. He stated, “Hunt’s direction and control, combined with Walker’s instinctive play, could create a dynamic partnership when Walker is back on the field.”