Towering Broncos forward Ben Te Kura has been released from his NRL contract as he chases his NFL dream.
The 22-year-old has made just five appearances for Brisbane since making his debut in 2024, and back in April was given permission to take a break from his NRL commitments to attend a six-week NFL training camp.
The hulking 205cm enforcer impressed NFL scouts and has now been released from his Broncos contract, which was set to end at the conclusion of the 2027 season, as he continues to follow in the footsteps of fellow Aussie Jordan Mailata.
Mailata left the Rabbitohs system to chase his American dream and went on to win a Super Bowl with the Eagles last year.
And now Te Kura is hoping he can become a household name in the United States, relocating to Arizona as he seeks an opportunity to make it big.
“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 in a statement on Thursday.
“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 Broncos have refused to block Te Kura from chasing his dream and in a statement said it was an opportunity for the young forward that was simply too good to refuse.
“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.”
Te Kura would stand to earn life-changing money if he’s picked up by one of the NFL franchises.
To put into perspective, Mailata signed a three-year deal back in 2024 worth more than $100m.
Code Sports last year reported up to 20 NFL teams had shown interest in Te Kura.
NFL scouts, including NFLPA Certified Contract Adviser Dwane Budgen, said last year that Te Kura has the physical strengths NFL teams are looking for.
“Ben Te Kura is suited to the NFL. He’s athletic and has a great arm span. That’s what the NFL looks for,” he told SEN.
– with Newswire
Originally published as Broncos youngster Ben Te Kura released from NRL contract to chase NFL dream