SHOCK: BRONCOS LEGEND HUNT TERMINATES CONTRACT EARLY TO TAKE UP CLUB MENTOR ROLE
Brisbane Broncos halfback Ben Hunt has sent shockwaves through the NRL today by terminating his contract ahead of the 2026 season — ending widespread expectations he would retire from playing at the end of next year to instead take on a newly created role as the club’s mentor, tasked with guiding the team’s younger players through their NRL journey.
The decision marks a dramatic shift in the career of one of the Broncos’ most decorated stars, who only recently returned to Red Hill from the St. George Illawarra Dragons and had been on track to see out his playing days in Brisbane. In a statement released this morning, Hunt explained that the opportunity to shape the next generation of Broncos talent was too compelling to pass up, even if it meant hanging up his boots sooner than planned.
“After much thought, I know this is the right time to make the transition,” Hunt said. “Playing for the Broncos has been the greatest honour of my career, and now I want to give back by helping our young players navigate the challenges of the NRL and reach their full potential.”
Hunt’s legacy at the Broncos is already cemented in club history. He was named Player of the Year, Player’s Player, and Best Back in 2014, adding a second Best Back award in 2015 as part of the side that claimed the NRL Grand Final — a redemption moment that remains one of the most memorable in recent Broncos history. His representative credentials are equally impressive, with multiple State of Origin caps for Queensland and call-ups to the Kangaroos, while he joined the elite 350-game club in 2025.
The early termination of his playing contract has been met with a mix of surprise and admiration from fans and colleagues, who praise Hunt for putting the club’s future ahead of his own desire to play on. As the newly appointed mentor, he will bring decades of experience, leadership, and a deep understanding of what it takes to succeed at the highest level to a Broncos squad brimming with young talent, ensuring his influence at Red Hill will continue long after his final game.
