Kevin Walters has agreed to a new long-term contract that will see him continue as the head coach of the Brisbane Broncos until at least the end of the 2026 NRL season.
Despite having signed an extension just last season that would have kept him in charge until the following year, the Broncos’ resurgence as an NRL powerhouse has prompted the club to reward Walters with an upgraded and extended contract. This decision highlights the faith and confidence the club has in Walters, who is considered a legend of the Broncos.
Why the Brisbane Broncos have handed Kevin Walters a new contract…
Kevin Walters assumed the role of head coach at the Brisbane Broncos during a particularly challenging period in the club’s history. He took over following Anthony Seibold’s brief tenure, which culminated in the Broncos finishing last and receiving their inaugural wooden spoon in 2020. Walters stepped in during this low point for the team and embarked on the task of rebuilding and revitalizing the club’s fortunes.
Kevin Walters was a popular choice among the disillusioned old boys of the Brisbane Broncos, who sought to reinvent the struggling club and return it to its former glory. Walters’ strong connection with the club and its history made him an appealing candidate, as he shared the desire to see the Broncos regain their position at the top of the NRL ladder.
However, Walters faced challenges in his early years as head coach. In 2021, the team finished in 14th place, and although they showed signs of improvement the following year by securing a spot in the top eight, they suffered a devastating collapse and ultimately finished ninth.
Despite doubts about his long-term suitability for the Broncos, the club demonstrated their faith in Walters. In 2023, the team made an impressive run to the NRL Grand Final, reaching the decider for the first time in eight years. Unfortunately, they experienced a heart-wrenching loss to Penrith, leaving the Broncos still in search of their first premiership since 2006, when Wayne Bennett guided them to victory.
With his new contract, Walters aims to end the 18-year title drought and become the second longest-serving coach in Broncos history, behind the legendary Wayne Bennett. He expressed his love for the Broncos and his honor in coaching the team, acknowledging the hard work of players, coaches, and staff in the football department. Walters believes that together they can build something special at the Broncos and strive for even greater success.
The Broncos have faced challenges at the start of the current campaign, with losses in two of their first three matches and injuries to key players like Reece Walsh, Adam Reynolds, and Payne Haas impacting their performance.
Kevin Walters has demonstrated his ability to lift the Brisbane Broncos off the bottom and restore their status as one of the premier clubs in the NRL. This track record of rejuvenation has been recognized by the club’s decision to extend his tenure once again.
Brisbane’s CEO, Dave Donaghy, highlighted the positive changes that Walters has brought to the football program and emphasized the importance of continuity and certainty in building upon the foundation established under Walters’ leadership. The extension of Walters’ contract adds to the stability within the club, contributing to their long-term plans.
The team has also taken steps to secure the future of key players. Patrick Carrigan, Ezra Mam, and Payne Haas have signed long-term contracts, ensuring their continued presence in the Broncos’ squad. Additionally, Adam Reynolds, the conductor of Brisbane’s potent attack, has inked an extension to remain with the club.
Reece Walsh, a highly regarded talent, is currently engaged in contract negotiations with the Broncos. The potential deal being discussed would reportedly make him the highest-paid player in the history of the club.
By extending Kevin Walters’ contract and securing the futures of key players, the Broncos are actively working towards establishing stability and building a solid foundation for future success at Red Hill.
