Brisbane Broncos forward Ben Te Kura is set to take a remarkable step towards the NFL after being granted a provisional release to pursue an opportunity in American football.
The towering 205cm prop has attracted significant attention from overseas, with multiple NFL franchises monitoring his progress as they search for the next international success story.
The Brisbane Broncos have agreed to support Te Kura’s ambitions, allowing the 22-year-old to temporarily step away from rugby league to explore his chances.
Club officials have made it clear the move is a short-term arrangement, with Te Kura expected to return should an NFL contract not materialise.
MORE: PNG attempting to poach two Panthers with huge offers
Te Kura is preparing to begin an intensive training and testing phase, where his physical attributes and skillset will be assessed by American football scouts.
The unique opportunity comes after more than a year of growing interest, with clubs intrigued by his rare combination of size, mobility and athletic upside.
Getty Images
Standing taller than most players in either code, Te Kura shapes as a natural fit for offensive line roles, a pathway that has already proven successful for fellow Australian and former Rabbitohs player Jordan Mailata.
Mailata’s rise from a rugby league hopeful to a Super Bowl winner with the Philadelphia Eagles has become the blueprint for players looking to transition between the sports.
Te Kura has openly acknowledged that journey as inspiration, believing his own attributes could translate well to the demands of the NFL game.
The move also comes at a time of increasing NFL interest in Australia, with the code continuing to invest in international pathways and talent identification programs.
Te Kura’s testing will play a crucial role in determining his next step, with strong results potentially opening the door to a roster spot or further development opportunities.
Financially, the upside is significant, with even entry-level NFL contracts far exceeding typical rookie deals in the NRL.
While still early in the process, Te Kura’s pursuit adds another intriguing chapter to the growing connection between rugby league and the NFL.
Should he succeed, he would join a small but notable group of players to make the leap, following in the footsteps of pioneers like Jarryd Hayne.
For now, all eyes will be on how Te Kura performs during the testing period, as one of the NRL’s most physically imposing prospects chases a life-changing opportunity overseas.