Broncos sign emerging playmaker from NRL rivals

Sayantan Guha

Broncos sign emerging playmaker from NRL rivals image

Brisbane have bolstered their playmaking depth by signing 22-year-old Tom Duffy from North Queensland on a one-year contract for the 2026 season.

The former Australian Schoolboys representative was crowned Queensland Cup halfback of the year in 2024 after a standout campaign with the Townsville Blackhawks and Northern Pride, chalking up five tries, 33 try assists and 216 points. 

His form earned him an NRL debut in Round 1 this year, with six appearances for the Cowboys since.

Learning under Reynolds and Hunt

Duffy said the chance to develop alongside veterans Adam Reynolds and Ben Hunt was too good to turn down.

“It’s pretty appealing to me having Reynolds and Hunt, two 300-game halfbacks, there. I think there’s probably not a better club to go to at the moment as a half if you want to develop your game,” he explained.

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The young playmaker also praised the culture being shaped by new coach Michael Maguire. “The work ethic you have to have to succeed down there is high, and I want to strive for that. I want to try and earn the respect of the boys and coaching staff and put my best foot forward. I want to keep developing as a halfback, I think I’ve got a long way to go to reach my ceiling yet.”

Broncos General Manager of Football Troy Thomson welcomed the signing, saying: “Tom’s a great young talent and he’s consistently shown that over the years as he’s progressed through the ranks. It’s the perfect time for him to come down to the Broncos and learn off Reyno and Hunty, who will help shape his career.”

Duffy will link up with the Broncos at the end of the current season.

Sayantan Guha

Sayantan Guha is a content producer for The Sporting News working across English-language editions.