BRISBANE BOMBSHELL BREWING? PAYNE HAAS RESPONDS TO EXIT WHISPERS WITH CLEAR MESSAGE—WHERE HIS LOYALTY LIES
BRISBANE, QLD — June 10, 2025
Rumors swirled like a summer storm around Red Hill this week, with speculation that Broncos enforcer Payne Haas could be preparing to walk away from the club that turned him into one of rugby league’s most dominant forwards. But in a development that will bring relief to Brisbane fans and perhaps just a touch of worry to their rivals, Haas has delivered a telling—and timely—response.
Speaking just 14 minutes after The Courier Mail published the explosive piece linking him to a potential exit, Haas appeared composed and confident as he addressed the growing noise around his future.
“I’m a Bronco. That hasn’t changed.”
Those were the seven words that silenced a room full of reporters and sent a wave of reassurance through the Broncos fanbase.
The Rumors and the Reality
The rumors, first reported early Tuesday morning, suggested several Sydney-based clubs—chiefly the Bulldogs and Roosters—had been quietly circling Haas, lured by the possibility of a once-in-a-generation forward hitting the open market. With Brisbane’s salary cap under ongoing pressure and Haas’ value soaring, the whispers quickly gained traction.
Social media was flooded with speculation, fan theories, and mock-up jerseys placing Haas in blue and white or red, white, and blue. Some fans began to panic. Others saw it as standard contract-year gamesmanship. But few expected the Broncos prop to respond as directly—and as swiftly—as he did.
“I’ve always said my job is to play footy and lead from the front,” Haas said in his brief but pointed media address. “I’ve got a good relationship with Kev (Walters), and the boys here are my brothers. Whatever is being said outside, that’s not my focus.”
Contract Clock Ticking?
Haas is currently contracted with Brisbane through the end of the 2026 season, following a significant extension inked in mid-2023. However, it’s believed there is an option clause that could be activated at the end of 2025—either by the player or the club. That clause, combined with Haas’ meteoric rise and continued dominance in the middle third, has reignited interest from across the league.
“Look, I get it,” Haas continued. “When you’re winning games and you’re playing well, people talk. But I’ve never said I want to leave.”
That last sentence is critical. It doesn’t completely slam the door shut on a future move—but it does reinforce Haas’ commitment to the present. And for a team chasing premiership glory in 2025, that may be all that matters right now.
Walters Not Worried
Broncos head coach Kevin Walters was quick to back his star forward, suggesting the rumors were “off the mark” and “not reflective of anything we’ve heard inside the club.”
“Payne’s a cornerstone of our pack. He sets the tone every week and brings professionalism that lifts the whole group,” Walters said. “He’s committed to our mission, and we’re committed to him.”
The Leadership Factor
Sources within the Broncos’ camp say Haas has become more than just a middle-forward juggernaut. Over the past two seasons, he’s quietly stepped into a leadership role—guiding younger players, setting the standard in training, and bringing a calming presence on and off the field.
Teammates like Patrick Carrigan and Reece Walsh have described him as a “spiritual anchor” for the team.
“You just feel better knowing Payne’s on your side,” Carrigan told reporters last week. “It’s not just the hit-ups or tackles. It’s the way he handles pressure. He lifts us.”
Sydney Clubs Still Watching
Despite Haas’ strong words, don’t expect rival clubs to back off anytime soon. His combination of size, motor, and skill is almost unmatched in today’s game. For a side like the Bulldogs—rebuilding and desperate for a pack leader—or the Roosters, always on the lookout for marquee talent, Haas remains a dream acquisition.
Still, money may not be the deciding factor. Those close to the Broncos star say his priorities have shifted since the birth of his daughter last year. Stability, culture, and loyalty now rank higher than dollar signs.
“Payne knows what he wants in life,” one source close to his camp told The Courier Mail. “Right now, he has it in Brisbane.”
Fan Reaction: Mixed Emotions
Broncos supporters lit up social media following Haas’ statement, with many praising his directness. Others, however, urged the club to “lock him in for life.”
On X (formerly Twitter), one fan wrote:
> “If Payne walks, we riot. He’s the heart of this team. Give him the captaincy and the keys to the city.”
Another added:
> “Glad he said something, but I’m still nervous. Get the extension done now!”
What Comes Next?
Contract negotiations are a tricky business—especially with star players. Even when public statements are made, internal discussions often tell a more complex story. But for now, Haas has made it clear: he’s not leaving the Broncos. At least, not yet.
With Brisbane firmly in the top four and primed for another finals run, the focus remains on footy. But make no mistake—club officials will be working behind the scenes to ensure the rumors stay just that: rumors.
Because Payne Haas isn’t just another forward. He’s a franchise pillar. A game-changer. And keeping him in maroon and gold might be the biggest win the Broncos can score this season.
