Journeyman outside back Hayze Perham was on the verge of quitting rugby league last year, but a supportive move to the Brisbane Broncos has revitalized his career. The 26-year-old started his first NRL game in 964 days in the Broncos' 32-12 win over his former club Canterbury on Friday night, after injuries to Reece Walsh and Jesse Arthars opened the door.
Perham showed his class, contributing to two first-half tries and making 14 tough carries. An ACL rupture had wiped out his 2025 season at the Broncos, following stints with the Warriors, Bulldogs, and Parramatta. Reflecting on his rehabilitation, Perham admitted there were dark moments. 'There was definitely a time midway last year when I thought that I wasn't going to get through it and it might have been the end of the road for me,' he said.
The Broncos' support was crucial, signing Perham on a one-year development deal midway through his rehab. He signed a further one-year deal for 2026, with an option to re-sign. 'After the faith that they showed me to get to this point now, it's obviously a huge occasion,' Perham said. 'I'm glad I got to repay them in some way … to play then get the win for them.'
Perham is not daunted by Walsh's expected return to fullback and wants to extend his time at the club. 'I'd love to stay here and do my job for the team, wherever it may be,' he said. 'Even though he's a bit younger and a bit cheekier, to be around a player like that and learn off him is amazing.'
