The Broncos have confirmed that premiership-winning prop forward Corey Jensen has been forced to retire effective immediately.
The 32-year-old was diagnosed with pulmonary embolisms in both lungs after he became increasingly unwell following the round seven win over the Tigers.
Jensen met with specialists in both Australia and abroad, with test results revealing he doesn’t have an underlying autoimmune issue which caused the clots but that he’ll need to stay on blood thinners for the rest of his life.
As a result, he can’t play contact sports which brings an end to an impressive career that started with the Cowboys in 2017 before he moved to the Broncos in 2022 where he won a title with them last year.
“Due to circumstances and medical advice from not just specialists here but from specialists internationally, the recommendation is that I can’t continue playing contact sport,” he said.
“Since I’ve been able to train properly again, it’s been like a mini pre-season and I can do everything other than the contact which is the frustrating part.
“Overall, my health’s pretty good, I can continue training in the future and it’s not going to affect me in any way.
“The late Paul Green gave me my debut back then…I was a bit of a late bloomer, so I’m grateful they took a punt on me and I have to acknowledge how much the Cowboys did for my career.”
Broncos coach Michael Maguire paid tribute to the reliable front-rower who was the perfect foil for Payne Haas who will leave the club at the end of the season.
“Corey is an outstanding professional who lives the Broncos’ standards every day, he’s a high-quality individual and puts the team ahead of himself in everything he does,” Maguire said.
“He is perfect for the culture here at the club and he helps build sustained success, his record shows that.
“His greatest qualities are his care for his teammates and his ability to always make someone else better.”
General manager of football operations, Troy Thomson, says Jensen’s impact on and off the field will never be forgotten.
“Corey is the definition of a professional, he has an incredible work ethic, humility and commitment to his teammates,” Thomson said.
“Watching him fulfil his dream of winning a premiership last year was incredibly special.
“Even throughout this incredibly challenging period, Corey has continued to contribute to our football program, and has shown immense growth in that area while supporting staff and players with the selfless attitude he’s always shown.
“He will forever live on the walls of the Broncos from what he’s been able to achieve, and the players and staff members he’s been able to inspire.”
Originally published as ‘I can’t continue’: Corey Jensen forced into early retirement due to health issue