Brisbane Broncos Pursue Warriors Prop Mitchell Barnett for 2027 Squad
Brisbane Broncos coach Michael Maguire is actively seeking to bolster his forward pack by targeting Warriors prop Mitchell Barnett for the 2027 NRL season. This move comes as the Broncos prepare to lose star front-rower Payne Haas, who will join South Sydney in 2027, creating a significant gap in the team's experience and grit.
Maguire's Connection and Recruitment Efforts
Maguire, who gave Barnett his State of Origin debut for New South Wales in the 2024 decider, has already held discussions with the prop. In that match, Barnett made a substantial impact off the bench, helping NSW secure a 14-4 victory and a 2-1 series win. The Warriors have granted Barnett a release for the 2027 season, the final year of his contract, on compassionate grounds, facilitating his potential move.
"I've met with him," Maguire confirmed. "I talk to a lot of the players that I've coached over time, and he's one of them too. He's a great character and obviously my style of player." However, Maguire noted that more details about Barnett's potential arrival in Brisbane will emerge "in time," as the club focuses on immediate commitments, including an upcoming game against Penrith.
Warriors' Conditions and Player Exchange
The Warriors have stipulated that any club signing Barnett must provide a player in return, ensuring they receive compensation for his departure. Maguire acknowledged this aspect but emphasized his primary focus on current team performance. "Part of my job is to look to the future, but I don't get caught up in that," he said. "I just focus on what we're doing now, and look, that's the future part."
Haas's Departure and Endorsement of Barnett
Payne Haas, who has played alongside Barnett for NSW, cited private family reasons for his decision to move to the Rabbitohs. Maguire expressed understanding and confidence that Haas will leave the Broncos on a high note after contributing to the 2025 premiership. "In 12 months' time he'll move but with what he's doing right now in every training session ... he hasn't changed," Maguire stated. "He dials into every meeting, everything that we do. Things change at some stage in your life but whilst we've got a player like Payne here, with what he's been able to do over the last 10 years for the club, we're going to make sure we represent that every day."
Haas strongly endorsed Barnett as a potential signing for Brisbane. "He's a great signing if (Brisbane) could get him," Haas said. "He's a great leader. Mitch does all the hard-nosed stuff, and he's something you need in your club. He's a strong voice and he's a strong character. If Brisbane can get him, it would do them the world of good."
Barnett's Injury and Expected Return
Mitchell Barnett missed the latter part of the 2025 season due to a torn ACL but is anticipated to return for the Warriors in Round 2 of the upcoming competition. His recovery and form will be closely monitored as Brisbane continues its recruitment strategy to strengthen the squad for future challenges.
