With Kevin Walters’ retirement as the Broncos coach, Reece Walsh $5 million contract is in jeopardy.
Reece Walsh has not yet signed a contract extension, therefore questions have been raised about what Kevin Walters’ firing as Brisbane Broncos coach means for the talented fullback. Roger Walters’stepped down’ as coach of the Broncos on Thursday night, a shocking announcement despite rumors that he was fired.
After the Broncos had an incredible collapse in 2024—finishing 12th and missing the playoffs just a year after winning the grand final—the team had hired an outside reviewer. Reports state that neither Walters nor some of the standards that had come into the club were given very positive reviews.
Then, despite Walters having two years left on his contract, the Broncos announced on Thursday night that he would be leaving with immediate effect. It’s thought the team has already found a replacement, although concerns have been raised regarding Walsh and his $5 million contract extension.
According to rumors that surfaced last week, Walsh had consented in principle to stay with the team for a further $5 million over four years. However, the club has not officially verified the agreement, and Walsh is rumored to not have signed a contract just yet.
What does Reece Walsh’s contract signify in light of Kevin Walters’ departure?
Many have questioned what Walsh’s future holds in the wake of Walters’ resignation. It was brought up by former NRL players Mat Rogers and Scott Sattler on SEN radio on Thursday night, and they also brought it up with prominent Brisbane journalist Peter Badel of the Courier Mail.
Despite the positive working relationship between Walsh and Walters, Badel expressed confidence that Walsh’s new contract won’t be impacted by Walters’ departure. Badel responded, “I think they would be separate things,” in reference to the coaching position and contract. “I don’t believe Kevvie’s decision would affect his contract in any way.
“From what I’ve been told, Reece is a fan of Kevvie and enjoys being coached by him. I think his contract would be pretty water tight and you’ll find that Reece will move forward and be at the Broncos next year.” Nevertheless, the situation with Walsh was a big talking point on social media on Thursday night after the Walters news broke.
