Rising Star Blake Mozer Faces Uncertain Future at Brisbane Broncos
Brisbane Broncos’ young talent, Blake Mozer, is facing a pivotal decision as he weighs his future with the club. The decision comes after the team re-signed Cory Paix for another few seasons, extending his contract through to 2028. While Paix has proven himself as a reliable first-grade player under head coach Michael Maguire, Mozer has long been seen as the future of the club.
Mozer’s potential was even more evident when it seemed that Paix had played his last game as a Bronco during Kevin Walters’ tenure as head coach. However, the conversation around Mozer has softened in recent times, despite his re-signing until the end of 2027. The 21-year-old has only managed nine NRL games so far, largely due to injuries.
The lack of consistent game time has raised questions about whether Mozer would have gotten more opportunities without the injury setbacks. Ben Hunt, Billy Walters, and Tyson Smoothy before his departure have all been ahead of him in the pecking order. Mozer missed much of the second half of 2025 due to injury and will be looking for first-grade game time this year. However, it seems that he may need further injuries to create space for himself.
Billy Walters is set to be off-contract at the end of this season, and former long-time Broncos captain Andrew McCullough has suggested that Mozer should consider exploring other options. Speaking on SEN Radio, McCullough said:
“Depending on Billy (Walters) and his situation, but I’m not too sure of Blake’s contract and where he’s at. But I reckon he’s every chance of looking to go somewhere else. If he wants to go, there’s obviously Billy. (Ben) Hunt is potentially gonna go around (for) another year. (Cory) Paix has got two years and what do they do with Billy. So, it doesn’t add up at the end (of the day) with a couple of teams coming in (to the competition).”
Mozer has often been compared to the legendary Cameron Smith, and there was previously interest in his signature. With a thin dummy halves market, it wouldn’t be surprising if other clubs show interest again.
Brisbane also has Cameron Bukowski emerging through their system, which could complicate matters for Mozer. Without the guarantee of first-grade opportunities, the club may struggle to retain him.
Broncos legend Corey Parker believes that Mozer might leave the club not just by his own choice, but also because the team’s roster balance is off with too many dummy halves. Parker stated:
“They’ve got five (hookers) at the moment, and that just doesn’t fit into two. So maybe he does take an option and go play for another club.”
Key Players and Roster Considerations
- Cory Paix: Re-signed for two more seasons, solidifying his position as a key player.
- Ben Hunt: Potential to stay for another year, adding to the competition for playing time.
- Billy Walters: Off-contract at the end of the season, creating uncertainty for Mozer’s future.
- Tyson Smoothy: Previously ahead of Mozer, but has since departed the club.
- Cameron Bukowski: Emerging talent within the Broncos’ system, possibly challenging Mozer’s position.
Possible Outcomes for Blake Mozer
- Staying with the Broncos: Requires guaranteed first-grade opportunities, which may not be available given the current squad.
- Leaving for Another Club: Possible due to the thin dummy halves market and the interest shown in his talents.
- Waiting for a Change in Circumstances: Mozer may need to wait for injuries or changes in the team’s strategy to get more playing time.
With the Broncos’ current setup, it’s clear that Mozer’s future is uncertain. Whether he stays or goes, the decision will likely hinge on how the team manages its roster and whether it can offer him the opportunities he needs to develop. For now, the spotlight remains on Mozer as he navigates this crucial phase of his career.
