Future finally decided
It took months for Ben Hunt and Dragons to finally realize that the player did not have a future at the club. It thankfully did not take that long for him to find his next club. It was not a short process either though.
The 34 year old was linked to Sydney Roosters and the Dolphins all throughout November. Dolphins reportedly even offered a massive $1.4 million deal that blew all other clubs’ offers out of the water.
While Dolphins were the most intent on signing Hunt, the strongest link to the halfback was from Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs. The Blue and Whites looked set to sign Hunt before pulling out of the race to sign him over the weekend.
It is unclear when Roosters withdrew from the competition, or if they ever did.
Reportedly, Hunt had to choose between Broncos’ $600,000 offer and the Dolphins’ $1.4 million proposal. The Brisbane offer also contained a clause that would guarantee Hunt has a job with the club after he retires. Reports say this was the deciding factor for the veteran.
Brisbane building stacked squad
Brisbane have dominated the NRL offseason so far. It all started with their shocking signing of New South Wales head coach Michael Maguire.
The club then rushed to re-sign star fullback Reece Walsh and other key players like Martin Taupau and Xavier Willison.
In addition to signing Ben Hunt, the Broncos have also brought in fullback Hayze Perham from the Eels.
When you look at who the Broncos have added–and could still add before the start of next season–along with their existing players, Brisbane could have a very strong season next year.
Early 2025 NRL betting odds
With all the changes to Brisbane’s coaching and playing staff, the Broncos’ betting odds have sharpened ahead of the upcoming 2025 NRL season.
Last year, the Broncos finished comfortably outside the finals series in 12th place with 26 points. The early 2025 NRL betting odds predicted them to finish somewhere similar, with most betting sites placing them as 9th or 10th-favourite to win the league next season.
After bringing in former Blues boss Michael Maguire and making a number of big signings, the Broncos are one of the title favourites according to the betting apps.
PlayUp gives Brisbane $8.50 chances of winning the 2025 Premiership. Only the reigning minor premiers Melbourne Storm ($3.50) and 2024 champions Penrith Panthers ($4.40) have better odds of lifting the Provan-Summons Trophy next season.
It’s too early to say whether the betting sites are right. They usually are, but we still have not seen what this side looks like under Maguire. A slot start could lead to them missing the finals again next year. On talent alone though, they should go far.
