EXCLUSIVE: Darren Lockyer reveals 'critical' issue for Broncos as Adam Reynolds contract call looms

The state of Adam Reynolds' body is "critical" to the Broncos extending their skipper for the 2026 season and beyond, says Broncos director Darren Lockyer.

Reynolds remains unsigned for next season but the veteran halfback has indicated that he is keen to play on next year and could potentially play for another two seasons.

It's understood at least two rival Sydney clubs are monitoring his contract situation, even though his preference is to stay at Red Hill.

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Reynolds' injury issues are well known, with a chronic knee problem the main reason Souths decided to let the premiership-winning playmaker leave in 2021.

In his first three seasons with the Broncos, he played in 56 of a possible 81 games. In that time he guided Brisbane to the 2023 grand final and came within a whisker of lifting the trophy.

With Ezra Mam still suspended and Ben Hunt on the books for next year, the Broncos and Reynolds will have a big decision to make.

If he was to stay, there's every chance he'd be asked to take a pay cut.

An extension to keep him at the Broncos for next season would take him beyond his 36th birthday, the age at which club legend Allan Langer retired in 2002.

"I think Adam's body's critical to this, so hopefully he can stay on the field week in, week out, and if he's still contributing like he is," Lockyer told Wide World of Sports' QLDER.

"There's a few different theories here, where does Ben Hunt end up as Mam comes back?

"Ezra could sit back and watch Ben and Adam, you know, for most of this year and learn a bit.

"But, you know, what happens next year, I don't think you could decide around Adam until sort of mid-year.

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"And as we mentioned, it's another derby this weekend, the Battle of Brisbane, up against the Dolphins. So, they have another challenge on their hands. It'll be interesting if the rewind button is pushed again."

Reynolds' injury history is a major part of the negotiations but the Broncos No.7 will also have leverage.

The playmaker scored 11 points in Friday's win over the Cowboys to surpass Canberra great Jarrod Croker on the all-time NRL points scoring list.

Reynolds is on 2375 points and is on track to catch Bulldogs legend Hazem El Masri (2418 points) this year.

NRL Hall of Famer Cameron Smith holds the record with 2786 points.

Reynolds was diplomatic when asked about his future status with the Broncos.

"That will sort itself out in the future," Reynolds said after the round three win over the Cowboys.

"I'm enjoying myself, I've got a great team around me and the coaching staff is fantastic.

"As long as I'm continuing to enjoy my footy, I've got to keep doing my job … as long as I'm doing that, the future will look after itself."