The Broncos have released towering forward Ben Te Kura from the remainder of his contract to allow him to chase an NFL opportunity in the US next year.
Te Kura, 22, was limited to just five appearances for Brisbane over the past few years and was given permission back in April to take a break from his NRL commitments to attend a six-week NFL training camp.
The 205cm giant has taken the next step in his NFL dream and will relocate to Arizona as he looks to follow in the footsteps of fellow Aussie Jordan Mailata, who left the Rabbitohs system and went on to win a Super Bowl with the Eagles.
“I’m very grateful to the Broncos for everything they’ve done to support me in pursuing an opportunity in the NFL,” Te Kura said.
“Making my NRL debut for the Broncos against the Storm in 2024 was such an unbelievable moment for myself and my family.
“I owe the cub so much for the faith they’ve had in me right from day one.”
The first NFL pre-season matches begin next month, with the first round of the proper competition kicking off on September 10 when the Seahawks and Patriots clash in a Super Bowl rematch.
Te Kura has reportedly impressed NFL scouts and would stand to earn life-changing money if he’s picked up by one of the franchises, with Mailata signing a three-year deal back in 2024 worth more than $A100m.
“This is an incredible opportunity and one we felt was important to help facilitate,” Broncos general manager of football operations Troy Thomson said.
“Everyone at the Broncos wish Ben and his family all the very best for the future.”
Originally published as ‘Incredible opportunity’: Ben Te Kura released by the Broncos as he chases life-changing money in the NFL