Brisbane Broncos Head Coach Announces Departure of 6 Star Players, Including Stephen Crichton, and Vows to Rebuild the Team
In a bombshell announcement that has stunned the rugby league community, Brisbane Broncos head coach Kevin Walters revealed the departure of six star players, including big-name recruit Stephen Crichton, as the club enters a new chapter of rebuilding for the future. The news comes as a shock to Broncos fans, many of whom had high hopes for the team’s success in the upcoming seasons. Walters, however, has vowed that this move will lead to long-term success and a more cohesive, dedicated squad.
The departure of the players—who include both established stars and recent signings—marks a significant shift in the Broncos’ roster. Walters confirmed that the team would be parting ways with Stephen Crichton, Tevita Pangai Jr., Jesse Arthars, Jake Turpin, Herbie Farnworth, and Xavier Coates. While the decision was met with mixed reactions from fans, Walters expressed confidence that it was the right move for the future of the club.
The Departure of Key Players
One of the most talked-about departures is Stephen Crichton, who had joined the Broncos just ahead of the 2024 NRL season. Crichton’s move to Brisbane had generated significant excitement, given his stellar performances with the Penrith Panthers. However, despite the potential he brought to the team, Walters revealed that both the player and the club had mutually agreed to part ways, with Crichton seeking a fresh challenge elsewhere.
Tevita Pangai Jr., a dynamic forward known for his aggression and physicality, also departs after a brief but impactful tenure with the Broncos. His departure is believed to be linked to the club’s desire to build a more disciplined and structured forward pack, with Pangai’s volatility on and off the field sometimes raising concerns.
Jesse Arthars and Xavier Coates are the other high-profile backs to leave the club. Both players had shown flashes of brilliance but were often inconsistent. Coates, a speedster with a reputation for finishing tries, moves on to a new opportunity, while Arthars’ departure signals the Broncos’ intent to pursue fresh talent in the outside backs.
Meanwhile, Jake Turpin, the club’s starting hooker, and Herbie Farnworth, one of their best centers, are also leaving the Broncos fold. Turpin’s future with the team had been uncertain, with the Broncos moving towards a more dynamic playmaker at hooker, while Farnworth’s departure is part of a broader reshuffling in the club’s backline.
Kevin Walters’ Rebuilding Plan
Despite the loss of such significant talent, Kevin Walters expressed a sense of optimism and determination for the future. Speaking at a press conference, Walters explained that the departures were part of a broader strategy to rebuild the club’s culture and playing roster.
“We have a vision for the Broncos, and unfortunately, these players no longer fit into that vision for the long-term success of the team,” Walters said. “This decision has been difficult, but it’s necessary to move forward and create a team that is committed, disciplined, and hungry for success.”
Walters went on to promise that the Broncos would use the departures as an opportunity to target fresh, young talent and players with the right mindset to match the team’s goals. “We’re looking at bringing in players who will buy into the Broncos’ culture—players who will fight for the jersey every time they step on the field,” he said. “This is not about making quick fixes. We’re building something sustainable, and that takes time.”
