Brisbane Broncos enforcer Payne Haas is expected to deliver a major lift to the club by rejecting lucrative offers from rival teams, including the newly introduced Perth Bears, and instead committing his long-term future to the Broncos.
According to Code Sports, Brisbane officials are actively working behind the scenes to finalise an extension deal with the star prop, aiming to ward off potential poaching attempts ahead of the Perth Bears’ 2027 NRL debut.
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The expansion club, equipped with a substantial recruitment budget, was reportedly prepared to offer Haas up to $1.5 million annually to lure him west.
However, Haas’ manager Ahmad Merhi has quashed all speculation about his client’s departure, declaring that the 25-year-old has no interest in entering the open market when he becomes eligible for free agency on November 1.
“Payne is not leaving the Broncos. He won’t be going anywhere,” Merhi stated. “If he wanted to go, he would have done so two years ago. This isn’t about money—it’s about his passion for the club and his goals.”
Haas, who has spent his entire NRL career at Red Hill, is reportedly eager to chase a premiership with Brisbane and cement his legacy as one of the club’s all-time greats.
Despite recent rumours spurred by his name appearing on a circulated list of players soon to be off-contract, Merhi emphasised that Haas is “very happy” at the Broncos and wants to fast-track contract discussions.
The timing of this development couldn’t be better for Brisbane, who are facing scrutiny amid a four-game losing streak and growing criticism of coach Michael Maguire’s methods. Haas’ loyalty underscores a deep personal and professional connection to the club, including family factors.
Haas has taken on legal guardianship of his younger brothers, 15-year-old Hans—who recently signed a three-year deal with the Broncos—and 13-year-old Geejay, following legal issues involving their parents.
The prop dreams of one day playing alongside Hans at Brisbane and potentially reuniting with older brother Klese, currently with the Titans.
“Payne’s got a dream to play with his brothers in Brisbane,” Merhi added. “That’s a massive part of why he’s staying. He wants to build something special here.”
The news provides a timely morale boost for the Broncos and their fanbase, reinforcing Haas’ status not just as a powerhouse on the field but a cornerstone of the club’s long-term future.
