**Reece Walsh’s $6 Million Deal Could Pressure Broncos Teammates into Tough Choices**
Kevin Walters is determined to keep Selwyn Cobbo and Kotoni Staggs from joining rival NRL teams, but acknowledges that they might have to accept lower salaries to stay with the Brisbane Broncos. This comes as Reece Walsh is set to sign the most lucrative contract in the club’s history, reportedly worth $6 million, while Cobbo and Staggs become free agents on November 1.
Cobbo and Staggs, key to the Broncos’ future title ambitions, might need to accept less than they could earn elsewhere. Walters is committed to retaining them but understands the challenges. “I expect to keep both,” Walters said. “We need to find a way. They are exceptional players from our academy. They will demand high salaries, but we must find a compromise where they stay, earn slightly less, but remain successful here.”
Walters, a five-time title winner with the Broncos, recalls an era when players took pay cuts to sustain the club’s dominance in the 90s. He believes Cobbo and Staggs could follow suit given the right environment. “Kotoni and Selwyn are true Broncos,” Walters stated. “My goal as coach is to keep both. It’s challenging, but rugby league is challenging. We need to find a way.”
The hefty contract for Walsh complicates financials for other players. With Payne Haas, Patrick Carrigan, and Ezra Mam already on big-money deals, funds are limited. Walsh expressed his commitment to the Broncos, crediting them for his Origin success and affirming his desire to stay long-term.
However, Walsh’s deal could create difficulties for Cobbo and Staggs. “A lesser club might offer Cobbo seven figures to be their top fullback,” said Broncos great Corey Parker. “Given his versatility, it’s hard to see how the Broncos can match open-market offers for Cobbo and Staggs.”
