The Brisbane Broncos have been rocked by the confirmation that one of their most promising young talents, Coby Black, will leave the club at the conclusion of the 2026 NRL season.
Rising Star's Shock Departure
Nineteen-year-old Black, who had been widely regarded as the long-term successor to veteran halfback Adam Reynolds, has decided his future lies elsewhere despite coming through the Broncos' academy system from the age of 14. The talented playmaker had been earmarked as a key part of Brisbane's future after impressing in lower grades and making headlines with a staggering 46-point haul while playing for Burleigh in the Mal Meninga Cup last year.
Black's development through the Broncos pathway saw him progress to the NRL top squad, with his representative credentials including Queensland under-19s honours. His departure represents a significant blow to the club's long-term planning.
Recruitment Shake-up Influences Decision
The young gun's decision to seek opportunities elsewhere comes just weeks after the Broncos confirmed the signing of Melbourne Storm playmaker Jonah Pezet, who will spend 2025 at Parramatta before arriving in Brisbane for the 2027 season. This impending arrival reportedly played a key role in Black's choice to secure his future with the Canberra Raiders.
Broncos general manager of recruitment Simon Scanlan expressed mixed emotions about the development. "Coby has come through our Academy program from the age of 14 and has worked really hard to progress through to our NRL top squad," Scanlan said. "While we're sad to see him leave, we thank him for his dedication and commitment and sincerely wish him every success as he takes the next step in his career."
Future Prospects and Club Dynamics
Black's pathway to regular NRL action at the Broncos appeared increasingly challenging for the 2026 season. The club boasts established halves in premiership winner Ezra Mam and captain Adam Reynolds, alongside versatile veteran Ben Hunt. The recent recruitment of former North Queensland playmaker Tom Duffy for 2026 further crowded the playmaking positions.
The teenager's move to Canberra will see him mentored by Raiders coach Ricky Stuart, considered one of the game's greatest halves during his playing career. This tutelage opportunity likely factored into Black's decision to seek a fresh start with the green machine.
Black was always contracted until the end of 2026 but became a free agent on November 1, allowing the Raiders to move quickly and secure his signature for what promises to be an intriguing next chapter in the young playmaker's career.
