Journeyman outside back Hayze Perham was on the verge of giving up the game last year, but now he is eager to remain at Brisbane for as long as possible following a brave return to the field.
The 26-year-old fullback started his first NRL game in 964 days during the 32-12 victory over his former club Canterbury on Friday night, after injuries to Reece Walsh (cheek) and Jesse Arthars (leg) opened the door for his selection.
Perham showcased his class, playing a role in two first-half tries and making 14 tough carries.
An ACL rupture wiped out his 2025 season at the Broncos after stints with the Warriors, Bulldogs, and Parramatta.
Perham quickly summed up the mental and physical fortitude required to return when asked whether his rehabilitation was “hard”.
“I think hard’s an understatement,” he said.
“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.
“The Broncos really supported me ... I came over on a one-year development deal and they signed me pretty much halfway through my rehab program.”
That is why he felt so proud and pleased to be back at fullback and play a key role in a victory.
Perham signed a one-year deal for 2026, as announced by the Broncos, but it is understood he has an option to re-sign.
“After the faith that they showed me to get to this point now, it’s obviously a huge occasion,” he added.
“I’m glad I got to repay them in some way … to play then get the win for them.
“When they came forward to my manager and said that they wanted to keep me on for another year, when I hadn’t even touched the field yet, it was a huge uplifting moment for me.”
Walsh will return to the No.1 position when his cheek heals, but Perham is not daunted 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,” Perham said.
“Reece probably finished last year in the best form that anyone’s ever been in.
“Even though he’s a bit younger and a bit cheekier, to be around a player like that and learn off him is amazing.”
