Payne Haas, the Brisbane Broncos’ standout prop, is not seeking to leave the club, despite recent rumors suggesting otherwise. These rumors emerged as the Broncos, who ended the season in 12th place and missed the finals, are looking to strengthen their squad. The team is reportedly interested in acquiring established forwards like Christian Welch from Melbourne and Reagan Campbell-Gillard from Parramatta.
Speculation about Haas’s future with Brisbane intensified due to the team’s disappointing performance and their subsequent recruitment efforts. Some have suggested that Haas, known for his intense dislike of losing, might be unhappy at Brisbane and considering a move. However, Haas’s manager, Ahmad Merhi, has firmly denied these claims.
Merhi dismissed the rumors as absurd, stating that Haas has no intention of leaving Brisbane. He highlighted that Haas recently purchased a new property close to the club and training facilities. With his family established in the area—his young daughter, an expected son, and his two younger brothers living with him—Haas’s commitment to Brisbane is clear. Merhi emphasized that Haas’s family situation and his personal connections to the club underscore his stability and contentment in Brisbane.
Haas signed a significant contract extension last year, which keeps him with the Broncos until the end of 2026. His deal was largely facilitated by his strong relationship with coach Kevin Walters. Despite ongoing scrutiny of Walters’s coaching performance, Merhi noted that Haas has a deep respect for Walters and enjoys playing under his guidance. According to Merhi, Walters played a crucial role in securing Haas’s contract and is a significant factor in Haas’s desire to remain with the Broncos.
Currently, the Broncos are conducting exit reviews with players and consulting with an external party to evaluate the season and key staff. Haas, who recently returned to play after a Lisfranc injury sustained against Gold Coast, will miss the upcoming Pacific Championships due to a forthcoming surgery on his left foot. Merhi revealed that Haas had delayed the surgery to continue playing in an effort to help the team reach the finals, demonstrating his dedication to the club.
Merhi pointed out that Haas’s decision to play through the injury, despite the pain and the need for surgery, reflects his character and commitment to the Broncos. The surgery is scheduled to take place shortly, with an expected recovery period of four months. Merhi expressed frustration upon discovering Haas’s decision to continue playing despite his injury but acknowledged that it was Haas’s personal choice to prioritize the team’s success over his own well-being.
