​​​Tessa Lee, Sports journalist reporting on global leagues since 2021.​

The Broncos Ben Hunt contract extension became official on Monday, with Brisbane confirming the veteran playmaker will remain at Red Hill for the 2027 NRL season. The decision ends speculation that Hunt could retire at the end of next year, but it also creates fresh questions about the club's long term plans in the halves. With Adam Reynolds nearing retirement and young talents Jonah Pezet and Thomas Duffy pushing for bigger roles, Brisbane now faces a delicate balancing act.

Hunt, who will be 36 next season, has publicly stated his desire to continue playing halfback.

The extension gives the Broncos experience and leadership, but it also adds another layer of intrigue to an already crowded spine.

Hunt commits to another season

Earlier this year there was growing speculation that Hunt may choose to retire.

The Broncos had already secured the future services of Jonah Pezet while also extending emerging playmaker Thomas Duffy, moves that appeared to signal a shift toward the club's next generation.

Instead, Brisbane opted to keep Hunt for another year.

The veteran's versatility likely played a significant role in the decision. Hunt remains capable of playing halfback, five eighth and hooker, providing valuable cover across several key positions.

The challenge now is determining where he fits best in 2027.

Brisbane already has Billy Walters, Blake Mozer and Cory Paix competing for opportunities at hooker, while Pezet, Duffy and Ezra Mam are expected to be contenders in the halves.

Questions over the halfback position

The biggest talking point following Hunt's extension is his public desire to play halfback.

That has prompted debate over how the move may affect incoming recruit Jonah Pezet.

Speaking on NRL 360, veteran journalist Brent Read admitted he was surprised by the Broncos' decision.

"My issue was he's publicly come out and said he wants to be the halfback," Read said.

"You've got Jonah Pezet going there next year. You brought him to play halfback and you've got a bloke that is publicly saying I want to play halfback, you've re signed him for another year."

Read suggested the situation could create unnecessary pressure for Pezet before he has even arrived at the club.

However, he also noted that Hunt has never been known as a disruptive figure and is unlikely to create problems within the squad.

For more NRL contract news and player movement updates, visit our rugby league section.

Pezet faces growing competition

Pezet was originally viewed as Brisbane's long term solution at halfback.

Since then, however, Thomas Duffy's emergence has altered the conversation.

Duffy recently earned a two year contract extension and has impressed during his appearances at NRL level.

Premiership winning halfback Cooper Cronk believes Duffy currently has the edge.

"The times Duffy has played, he hasn't been overawed but he has stood up and taken extra credit," Cronk told foxsports.com.au.

"There's enough in me right now that says Thomas Duffy is probably the number seven for Brisbane next year ahead of Jonah Pezet."

That assessment highlights the competition facing Pezet even before Hunt's extension entered the picture.

Value depends on contract price

Braith Anasta addressed concerns surrounding Hunt's deal while appearing on NRL 360.

Anasta argued that the value of the extension depends largely on the financial commitment involved.

"If it was the right price, he's an experienced player and can play a number of positions," Anasta said.

"I think it's unlikely he's going to play seven. Look at his form this year. He's getting older every year, that's the reality."

Anasta added that Brisbane would still find value in Hunt's experience and versatility if the contract terms were appropriate.

Sea Eagles secure Starford To'a

Elsewhere, Manly strengthened its outside back depth by signing Wests Tigers centre Starford To'a on a two year deal beginning in 2027.

The Tigers confirmed they had mutually agreed to release To'a from the final years of his existing contract.

The 25 year old has featured intermittently in first grade this season and brings valuable experience to the Sea Eagles.

Manly's backline already includes several long term options, including Jason Saab, Lehi Hopoate, Tom Trbojevic and Tolu Koula.

Sea Eagles coach Kieran Foran welcomed the signing.

"He's a quality player," Foran said.

"We look forward to welcoming him and his family with open arms next season."

Meanwhile, Tigers coach Benji Marshall thanked To'a for his contribution and confirmed he remains part of the club's plans for the remainder of the 2026 season.

Official NRL player movement and contract updates can be found here.

Brisbane's decision to retain Hunt provides experience and leadership, but it also ensures scrutiny will remain on the club's long term spine planning. With Pezet, Duffy, Mam and Hunt all potentially competing for key playmaking roles, the Broncos enter 2027 with both enviable depth and difficult decisions ahead.