'Real juggling act': Corey Parker admits 'concerns' as Selwyn Cobbo opts to test NRL open market
Broncos great Corey Parker admits the club are facing a "real conundrum" when it comes to the future of superstar outside back, Selwyn Cobbo.
The 22-year-old looks set to become a free agent in November and could attract offers from a host of rival clubs for the 2026 season and beyond.
Cobbo has emerged as one of Brisbane's most lethal attacking weapons in recent years, but endured a mixed year as his form slumped after a tricky State of Origin period.
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At this stage, Cobbo hasn't inked an extension to remain at Red Hill and while no clubs have officially entered the race, that won't last long once he hits the open market.
Selwyn Cobbo could become a rich man later this year. Getty
Speaking on SEN Radio, premiership winner Parker acknowledged the depth of young talent at the Broncos could haunt them as cashed-up rivals look to pounce.
"These kids are super talented but what comes with that is that other clubs want to poach them - and that's exactly the case with Selwyn Cobbo," he said.
"I'm led to believe he is going to the open market which suggests to me that he wants to go and see what's out there. If that's the case, I think he can get that range of $1 million and they can't have another player on that big amount of money at the Broncos.
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"It's Selwyn or Kotoni Staggs and it's a real juggling act. You'd love to keep them both, but I just don't think you can. What concerns me for the Broncos is that he is willing to test himself and if you're willing, you want to see what's over the fence.
"There are going to be 16 other clubs who will come with big money deals because his ceiling is so high. He can play in an array of positions like fullback, wing or centre so that puts another few strings to his bow.
"It's a real conundrum for the Broncos."
Cobbo has crossed for 43 tries in 68 appearances since making his debut three years ago, but the club's depth out wide could see him or the aforementioned Staggs depart.
Kotoni Staggs remains off-contract at the end of next season. Getty
Both men are unsigned beyond 2025, but the likes of Deine Mariner and Jesse Arthars have at least two more years on their current contracts at the Broncos.
Rookie centre Josiah Karapani showed glimpses of his potential in his first year, while Israel Leota represented the Queensland U19s and appears destined for big things.
Brisbane also face the prospect of Reece Walsh hitting the open market later this year, despite the superstar fullback expressing his desire to remain at the club.
