The future of Brisbane Broncos star Selwyn Cobbo remains uncertain as speculation mounts over a potential exit, with rival NRL clubs circling and salary cap pressures tightening at Red Hill.
The 23-year-old flyer was sensationally dropped from Michael Maguire’s starting side in Round 14, further fuelling rumours that his days in Brisbane may be numbered. Currently earning around $650,000, Cobbo is yet to receive a formal extension offer from the Broncos, who are prioritising the re-signing of Kotoni Staggs.
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Reports this week suggested that Cobbo had held a “secret meeting” with South Sydney coach Wayne Bennett to discuss a possible switch in 2026. However, the veteran mentor vehemently denied the claims.
“I don’t know where this report has come from but I haven’t had a single meeting with Selwyn Cobbo. I don’t know him. I’ve never met him,” Bennett told News Corp. “There’s been no discussions and, frankly, we can’t afford him. Selwyn isn’t going to take a pay cut to come to Souths — it’s not even an option.”
Despite Bennett’s denial, Cobbo’s management has been sounding out rival clubs as his future beyond 2025 remains unresolved.
The Dragons, Roosters, and Tigers are all reportedly interested, with suggestions Cobbo could command upwards of $900,000 per season if he secures a fullback role — a position he desires but is currently occupied by Reece Walsh at the Broncos.
Complicating matters further is the emergence of other outside backs at Brisbane. Gehamat Shibasaki and Jesse Arthars have proven reliable, while Grant Anderson is set to join from Melbourne in 2026.
Coach Michael Maguire, while eager to retain Cobbo, hinted that any new deal would require a pay cut.
“Selly and I talk all the time… He’s in the background doing the work to make sure he gets himself right,” Maguire said.
Saturday night’s game only intensified the scrutiny, with Cobbo’s replacement, Josiah Karapani, scoring twice in a strong performance against the Titans.
Maguire, however, left the door open for Cobbo’s return, saying he “definitely” could fight his way back into the squad — but emphasised the importance of meeting team standards.
With interest from four clubs and expansion teams like Perth and PNG potentially eyeing him from 2027, the clock is ticking on one of the NRL’s most closely watched contract situations.
