AdminThe Brisbane Broncos have brought Grant Anderson from the Melbourne Storm onboard, a move that could signify trouble for Selwyn Cobbo or Kotoni Staggs. Following the signing of Ben Hunt this week, alongside substantial contracts for Reece Walsh, Payne Haas, and Ezra Mam, it seems possible that one of Cobbo or Staggs may need to exit.
New head coach Michael Maguire has expressed his desire for both centres to remain with the team, believing they can manage to keep them within the salary cap. However, the acquisition of Anderson for 2026 seems to serve as a backup plan. The 25-year-old has recorded 12 tries in 24 matches with the Storm and represents a more economical option compared to Cobbo and Staggs. Both Broncos centres have participated in State of Origin and international play for Australia, which positions them to earn significant salaries on the open market, with competitors potentially offering as much as $1 million annually.
Recent reports suggest Cobbo has had to reduce his salary expectations to continue with the Broncos, who have paused contract negotiations until after the pre-season. Nevertheless, Maguire is optimistic that neither Cobbo nor Staggs will need to depart. “They are two players I would like to retain. That is part of the salary cap,” Maguire stated earlier this month. “Figuring that out is not my responsibility. I will let the appropriate individuals handle that aspect, but both of those players are world-class. “
Michael Maguire aims to help Selwyn Cobbo excel. Cobbo’s performance has been inconsistent during his brief career, but Maguire believes he can unlock the full potential of the 22-year-old. “He is strong, and I believe I can significantly assist in advancing his game,” Maguire noted. “Selwyn is young. His talent has been evident here at the Broncos and when representing Queensland, he is formidable. Personally, I feel equipped to support his development both as a player and as an individual. I take pleasure in fostering personal growth. There’s still work ahead, as we recognize within these walls, but that will be our focus. Improvement opportunities exist for every player, as everyone will encounter the fluctuations of a pre-season. “
Regarding Staggs, the new coach added, “Kotoni absolutely wants to be a Bronco and has shared with me the significance the club holds for him. Those are the players we seek to retain, nurture, and develop as Broncos. “
The Melbourne Storm is reportedly unwilling to allow Grant Anderson to leave prematurely. According to News Corp, the Broncos are attempting to secure Anderson from the Storm for 2025. However, given that the young winger/centre is under contract for the upcoming year, the Storm seems resistant to an early release.
Anderson has proven to be a competent first-grader, yet he has found it challenging to secure playing time in Melbourne with players such as Xavier Coates, William Warbrick, Nick Meaney, and the rising Jack Howarth ahead of him. He would undoubtedly be a valuable acquisition for Maguire at the Broncos, particularly if they need to let go of either Cobbo or Staggs.
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