Ben Hunt, the dynamic playmaker for the St. George Illawarra Dragons, has made a significant decision about his future in the NRL, with the star halfback finally signing a new deal with the Brisbane Broncos for the 2025 season. This deal ends months of speculation regarding Hunt’s future, as he had been linked with multiple clubs due to ongoing contract negotiations. His decision to return to the Broncos, where he began his NRL career, is a major coup for the club, and a defining moment for Hunt’s career as well.
Hunt, 34, has had a decorated career, but his time with the Dragons had been marked by a sense of uncertainty about his long-term future. Despite the Dragons’ struggles in recent seasons, Hunt’s individual performances have been exceptional, with many believing he still has plenty to offer at the highest level. His desire to return to Brisbane had been a recurring theme throughout the year, particularly given his deep roots with the club. Hunt initially played for the Broncos from 2009 to 2017, making his mark as a key player before his departure to the Dragons.
The Broncos, under coach Kevin Walters, have been on a significant upward trajectory in recent seasons. After years of rebuilding, Brisbane has become one of the competition’s most potent teams, with young talents like Reece Walsh and Kotoni Staggs alongside seasoned players like Adam Reynolds. Adding Hunt to the mix for 2025 only strengthens the club’s already potent roster and gives them more options in the spine. It is expected that Hunt will contribute significantly to their premiership push in the coming seasons, alongside Reynolds, and young talent such as Herbie Farnworth.
The new deal between Hunt and the Broncos is reportedly a two-year contract, which will keep him at the club until at least the 2026 season. Financial details have not been fully disclosed, but it is expected that Hunt’s pay packet will reflect his status as one of the game’s top playmakers. The Broncos, too, have ensured that Hunt’s role will be crucial in their spine, with many expecting him to take on an advisory or mentoring role to help guide the club’s younger players.
For Hunt, the deal signifies a return to where it all began for him, a chance to finish his career at the club that first gave him his NRL debut. Many fans have anticipated this moment for some time, with Hunt’s desire to return to Queensland linked to his family and personal motivations. Brisbane’s recruitment team, led by club CEO Dave Donaghy and head coach Kevin Walters, has ensured that they secure Hunt’s services for the future, further solidifying their premiership aspirations.
The signing also comes as a statement of intent for the Broncos, who are clearly committed to building a squad capable of competing at the highest level. With Hunt’s experience and leadership, combined with the emerging talent in the squad, the Broncos will be a force to be reckoned with in the NRL for years to come. Fans will be eagerly awaiting the start of the 2025 season, as Hunt’s return promises to bring further excitement to the competition.
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