Home Ground: Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane

Coach: Michael Maguire

Brisbane concluded a nearly two-decade premiership drought last season, securing a memorable grand final victory against the Storm, largely attributed to Reece Walsh's exceptional performance and individual heroics. Their semi playoff win over the Canberra Raiders has to be considered one of the finest and most exhilarating games of footy ever witnessed in the modern NRL era, and we should expect more of the same scintillating rugby league in season 2026. However, the challenge will intensify defending their title as they become a prime target for teams looking to benchmark themselves against the reigning premiers.

The Broncos narrowly secured a top-four position last season, subsequently achieving three comeback victories in the finals to claim a long-awaited championship; however, their performance could in fact improve further this season. The team's performance appeared to improve under pressure during the latter part of the season, which is a characteristic that distinguished top-tier teams such as the Broncos.

Provided they maintain their drive and successfully navigate the Origin period, the Broncos will be strong contenders for a minor premiership in 2026. They should be capable of lifting to the same level of commitment and replicating much of the sane plays. The big issue is when Walsh goes missing in action, he really goes missing. If teams can shut him down, they remove his potency. The speed of the game alters and the way to beat them is probably through grinding out a tough win. But it doesn't take much for the fleet-footed fullback to spring into action and change the direction of a game. With his confidence sky high, expect more of the same game breaking running.

Michael Maguire has had only one season with the team, and he is confident in his ability to further enhance their preparation for the title defense and rectify the shortcomings of their 2025 regular season. While Ben Hunt and Adam Reynolds are nearing the end of their careers, the Broncos, with key players such as Payne Haas, Reece Walsh, Patrick Carrigan, and Ezra Mam, possess the roster strength to secure their first minor premiership since 2000. Defending their title may be a whole lot harder unless the coach can find that bit extra and continue to grow the teams progress established last season.

Selwyn Cobbo has transferred to the Dolphins, yet the team's overall performance is expected to closely mirror that of the previous season, with minimal roster concerns. With the exceptional talent of Walsh, who appears to be a strong candidate for the Dally M award this year, they should be considered a Top 4 contender at the very least, provided they achieve some consistency early in the season.

PREDICTED SEASON FINISH - 3RD