'That could be it': Cameron Smith's move to Broncos fuels Craig Bellamy replacement speculation

Cameron Smith's move to join the Broncos staff has raised eyebrows, with one dual international questioning whether it will lead to him taking over from Craig Bellamy at the Melbourne Storm once the legendary head coach finishes his tenure.

The all-time leader for games played, Smith was synonymous with the Storm throughout his career that spanned 18 years and 433 matches.

Smith retired after the club's 2020 premiership win and has been part of Queensland's State of Origin coaching staff in recent series alongside Billy Slater.

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However, for the most part, Smith has been away from club land - until now.

Reports began to surface in November that the 42-year-old would join Brisbane and the club confirmed the news on Sunday morning with a social media post.

Smith's latest career move has led to question marks over whether he will move into coaching on a more full-time basis, potentially with his former club.

Mat Rogers theorised that Smith could return to Melbourne once Bellamy retires.

"I was really shocked to be honest, it's a great get for the Broncos but I'm shocked Melbourne don't have him working for them," Rogers said on SEN Radio.

"I like the fact Cam is back in the game at the highest level but I'm reading it like Madge and Bellyache are good mates, Madge worked for Bellyache.

"Cam lives here, is he working for the Broncos to prepare himself to take over as the head coach of the Melbourne Storm?

"I think Melbourne need someone internal, someone that has been there and that understands the system. Bellyache has been there 20 years, he has set a standard.

"Maybe I am wrong, but I think that could be it. He would be a great head coach. He is so controlled, he was never flustered."

The exact role Smith will play with the Broncos is unclear, however he did spend time with the club during a recent training camp in Toowoomba and it's expected that he will be working with the young, emerging talent at the club.

Smith would be tied with the likes of Reece Walsh and Ezra Mam, who spearheaded Brisbane's first title win in nearly two decades last October.

Maguire heaped praise on the Maroons and Kangaroos legend for his impact at Red Hill.

"I won't lie - I did do a double take when I saw him in the gear," Maguire told SEN.

"But it's great to have someone of his stature and all his experience.

"He will work with our leaders, me and the coaching staff and he chimes in where he can. He talks to the players about their game, but its a broad role, we're not painting him into one specific area because of the nature of the way he gets around people."