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Brisbane’s injury toll continues to rise, leaving the Broncos scrambling for depth ahead of a crucial clash.
Brisbane Broncos are facing a mounting injury crisis, with two more setbacks compounding an already stretched roster ahead of a key clash with the Wests Tigers.
The club confirmed hooker Blake Mozer will miss six weeks after suffering a fractured jaw in Friday night's loss to North Queensland Cowboys.
Forward Aublix Tawha has also been ruled out after fracturing an eye socket while playing in the Hostplus Cup, with surgery scheduled.
These injuries add to an already lengthy list. Reece Walsh remains sidelined with a fractured eye socket, while Ben Hunt is unavailable due to a knee injury.
Captain Adam Reynolds is also in doubt, having withdrawn late from the Cowboys match with a groin strain.
Further uncertainty surrounds Patrick Carrigan, who is facing a two-match suspension for a high tackle on Tom Chester. The club must decide whether to challenge the charge, with the risk of an additional match if unsuccessful.
Hooker depth is another concern. Cory Paix is subject to concussion protocols after a category one ruling, which carries an 11-day stand-down.
Brisbane are contesting the classification, arguing the incident should fall under category two, which would allow him to play.
Amid the growing injury toll, the club has granted forward Ben Te Kura permission to pursue an NFL opportunity. The 22-year-old will attend a six-week training camp as part of his long-held ambition to transition to American football.
Te Kura is aiming to follow a path taken by Jordan Mailata, now a Super Bowl winner with the Philadelphia Eagles, and Jarryd Hayne, who also made the switch from rugby league.
At the conclusion of the program, Te Kura is expected to either return to Brisbane or continue pursuing an NFL contract.
With injuries mounting and key decisions pending, the Broncos' depth will be tested in the weeks ahead.