Brisbane's forward pack will have a fresh look in 2024 and new recruit Jaiyden Hunt wants to put his hat in the ring for a gig.
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With grand-final props Thomas Flegler (Dolphins) and Keenan Palasia (Gold Coast) now at other clubs, the opportunity is there for Hunt.
The imminent playing future of 30-year-old second-rower Kurt Capewell is expected to be decided in the coming days as he mulls over a possible immediate move to the Warriors.
The 25-year-old Brisbane-raised Hunt was recruited from St George Illawarra on a two-year deal. He had a year left on his Dragons contract but the opportunity to play for the club he supported in his youth was a wonderful opportunity.
Coach Kevin Walters sold him the dream.
"I got told at the Dragons that there wasn't really a spot for me," Hunt said.
"My manager called and said the Broncos were interested and I said I'd jump in a heartbeat.
"I flew up and saw the facilities and had a chat to Kevvie. He said it was all about hard work and mateship here. That's a great club culture and what I really like."
Hunt is ready to fight hard for a bench position initially after playing just the 14 NRL games so far.
Nothing has ever been handed to him on a plate in his career.
"When I was younger I wasn't the greatest at rugby league," Hunt said.
"Coming through I was never in Queensland sides. I've always had to fight the whole way through.
"I'm used to it, I guess.
"I'll do whatever the team needs and Kevvie wants. If he wants me to play back-row, I'll play there. If he wants me to play in the middle I'll try hard in every area."
Capewell, off contract at the end of 2024, has been told by the Broncos he will not be re-signed beyond his current deal.
He has met with Warriors coach Andrew Webster and the club has a deal in place for him.
Warriors CEO Cameron George told SEN Radio the club wanted Capewell in 2025 and beyond, but it was ultimately up to the Broncos and the player if he joined for the upcoming season.
"We've (offered) a longer-term option here for him. He's on the market for 2025 and that's what we're looking at," George said.
"If Brisbane decided that there is an option for (2024) for us to talk about, we'd be happy to do that."
Australian Associated Press
