The Brisbane Broncos ended a 19-year premiership drought by clinching the 2025 NRL Grand Final.
But winning one is one thing. Maintaining dominance is another. To defend their title and stay at the top, several key players will need to take their performances up another notch. These are five Broncos whose individual improvement will be vital to Brisbane’s 2026 campaign.
1. Ezra Mam
Ezra Mam has emerged as one of the most exciting playmakers of his generation. He was one of Brisbane’s best in the 2025 grand final and was instrumental in turning what looked like a nightmare season into a dream redemption story. His cut-out passing, aggression and running game are already elite level.
Why his role is so important if Brisbane want to go back-to-back
Mam’s running game can unlock defensive lines and free up space for his halves and outside backs.
His cut-out passing gives the Broncos a serious weapon in shifting the ball quickly and catching opposition edges off guard.
His aggression ensures he’s not just a creator. He can finish and put his body on the line.
Given the pressure of defending a title, Mam’s big-game temperament and redemption arc make him a key figure in maintaining belief and intensity across the squad.
Key areas of focus for 2026
Staying fit and available after limited game time in 2025.
Tightening decision-making when defences are well organised so his attacking bursts translate into dominance.
Growing his defensive game and understanding opposition patterns so his running threat doesn’t come at the cost of lapses.
Strengthening his combination with Reece Walsh, the halves and outside backs so that his passing and running translate into consistent scoring options.
If Ezra Mam hits his stride in 2026, the Broncos’ attack will be even harder to stop. That will be a major factor in their pursuit of back-to-back premierships.