🤝 The Brisbane Broncos coaching staff, led by Michael Maguire, has expressed regret over the immediate departure of promising young halfback Coby Black, who has been granted an early release to join the Canberra Raiders for the 2026 NRL season. While the Broncos were keen to retain the academy star, they ultimately prioritized the player’s career progression.
Black, previously tipped as the long-term successor to Adam Reynolds, had secured a contract with the Canberra Raiders starting in 2027. However, an unexpected opportunity arose for him to link up with Ricky Stuart’s squad a year ahead of schedule, prompting the swift agreement for his immediate release.
Maguire’s Heartfelt Farewell
Broncos coach Michael Maguire made it clear that letting the talented 19-year-old go was a tough decision driven by circumstance rather than choice.
> “We would have loved to have Coby here at the Broncos for 2026, but we acknowledge the opportunity that’s been presented to him,” Maguire stated following the confirmed release. “He’s a fantastic young man who’s been an absolute pleasure to coach and I truly hope our paths cross in the future.”
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Maguire’s statement underscores the difficult balancing act NRL clubs face when managing elite young talent who are stuck behind established representative players like Reynolds and Ezra Mam. While another year under the guidance of veterans like Reynolds and experienced halfback Ben Hunt (who also mentors young halves) would have been invaluable for Black’s development, the lure of a more immediate first-grade opportunity proved too strong.
Raiders Clear the Deck for Early Arrival
The eagerness for the move was mutual. Raiders coach Ricky Stuart revealed earlier in the week that the Queensland U/19 Origin star was “very keen” to commence his tenure in Canberra immediately.
To facilitate Black’s early arrival, the Canberra Raiders reportedly made a strategic roster adjustment, granting an immediate release to outside back Manaia Waitere, who subsequently joined the Melbourne Storm. Waitere, who predominantly featured in Canberra’s NSW Cup team and had limited NRL appearances, made way for Black, highlighting the high value the Raiders place on the young playmaker’s potential.
Stuart publicly addressed the situation before the release was confirmed, showing respect for the situation in Brisbane: “I’m going to be fortunate either way. If he does join us, it’s going to be great for us and we get our opportunity to start coaching him a year early, but if not, I’m very happy for him to be under the guidance of Adam Reynolds in Broncos’ colours,” Stuart told SEN radio.
Fortunately for Stuart and the Raiders fan base, the club has secured their man a year ahead of schedule, adding significant depth and competition to their exciting young roster as they prepare for the 2026 season. Black now enters a direct contest with Ethan Sanders for a starting spot, ensuring a fiercely competitive pre-season for the Green Machine.