The Broncos’ salary cap situation could lead to them losing star outside back Selwyn Cobbo for the 2026 season.
Brisbane has one of the most talent-filled squads in the NRL, and with many players pushing for contract upgrades, their cap is under strain. The club is already spending big to retain superstar Reece Walsh and aims to extend the contract of powerhouse centre Kotoni Staggs.
Cobbo, who had a subpar season by his standards, might be the player they let go. The Cowboys are now front-runners to sign the tall Origin player, who could benefit from a club switch, especially with Valentine Holmes heading to the Dragons.
Cobbo is contracted through next season, but from November 1, rival clubs can approach him for 2026 deals. His current salary of about $625,000 is expected to rise to nearly $700,000 in 2025, and his management will likely seek a further increase, which may be challenging for the Broncos under the cap.
The Cowboys, who have more financial flexibility, will likely be interested in Cobbo’s versatility across centre, wing, and fullback positions. However, they must also consider that Cobbo seemed distracted and not at his peak in 2024, scoring only six tries in 19 games—much lower than his previous seasons’ performance.
In 2023, Cobbo scored 20 tries in 24 games, and in his first full season in 2022, he notched 15 tries in 18 games.