Brisbane Broncos fullback Hayze Perham has been granted a fresh opportunity to extend his NRL career, signing a one-year extension with the club that will keep him at Red Hill until the end of 2026. The decision comes in the wake of a devastating ACL injury that cruelly ended his 2025 campaign before it even began.
The 26-year-old suffered the injury during the Broncos’ pre-season trial clash against the Gold Coast Titans, leaving him sidelined for the year. Despite not featuring in a single NRL match since 2023, Perham’s dedication to recovery and the resilience he has displayed in the rehabilitation process convinced Brisbane’s coaching and football staff to offer him a new deal.
For Perham, it marks another chapter in a career defined by persistence and versatility. He has already journeyed through stints with the New Zealand Warriors, Parramatta Eels, and Canterbury Bulldogs before landing at the Broncos. While he has spent most of his recent playing time in the NSW Cup, his ability to cover multiple positions in the backline has been viewed as a crucial asset, particularly as depth behind Brisbane’s first-choice fullback and Queensland Origin star Reece Walsh.
A Player Grateful for the Chance
Despite the setbacks, Perham has remained upbeat about his time in Brisbane and the opportunity to stay with the club. Speaking candidly about the extension, he made it clear how much the environment has meant to him, even while on the sidelines.
“Obviously, things haven't turned out how I hoped, but I've enjoyed being in every day around the boys,” Perham said. “Rehab is always a tough slog… but I'm learning a lot by being around the group and I'm having a lot of small wins with them. I'm just super grateful and really happy to be here.”
His words reflect both humility and determination, traits that have clearly impressed Brisbane’s football department. While many players facing a long-term injury could find themselves cut adrift, the Broncos’ willingness to back Perham highlights the respect he has earned behind the scenes.
Broncos Back Perham’s Attitude
Broncos General Manager of Football Troy Thomson explained the decision to extend Perham’s stay, pointing to the professionalism and attitude the fullback has shown throughout the rehab process.
“Hayze has had a bit of bad luck with injury this year, but the coaching staff have all been really impressed by the way he's gone about rehab,” Thomson said.
“Returning from an ACL rupture is hard physically and mentally, but he's taken it in his stride. The contract extension will give Hayze an opportunity to get back on the field in 2026, which we're very much looking forward to.”
The message was clear: Perham’s new deal is not just about what he has achieved in the past, but about the potential impact he can still have for Brisbane once he completes his recovery.
The Long Road Back
An ACL injury is among the toughest setbacks in professional sport, often demanding up to a year of rehabilitation before an athlete is ready to return to elite competition. The physical challenges are daunting, but the mental toll can be just as severe. Maintaining motivation, discipline, and positivity through months of gym-based recovery and limited on-field involvement is no small task.
Perham’s ability to embrace that process has stood out. With the Broncos boasting a strong roster and high expectations, it would have been easy for the club to move on. Instead, his professionalism and the respect he commands within the group has given him the chance to re-emerge as a valuable option for 2026.
Depth and Competition in the Broncos’ Backline
While Reece Walsh remains firmly entrenched as Brisbane’s premier fullback, injuries and the demands of representative football mean reliable backup options are always in demand. Perham’s ability to play fullback, wing, and in the centres makes him a versatile squad member capable of filling gaps across the backline.
With younger talents developing and competition for places fierce, Perham’s experience across several clubs and competitions also provides valuable leadership for the Broncos’ wider squad. In a league where depth can often define a team’s success across a long season, his presence in the group cannot be underestimated.
A Journey of Persistence
Perham’s story is emblematic of the journeyman rugby league player—talented, adaptable, but often having to fight for opportunities. From his early days with the Warriors, through his stints at Parramatta and Canterbury, and now in Brisbane, his career has been one of resilience.
Though his time in first grade has been limited, his reputation as a committed trainer, dependable squad member, and versatile backline option has ensured he continues to find opportunities at the elite level. His extension with the Broncos adds another chapter to that narrative.
Looking Ahead
While 2025 will remain a lost year for Perham on the playing field, the focus is firmly on 2026. The Broncos’ faith in him suggests that when he returns, he will be given a genuine chance to re-establish himself in the NRL.
For now, the goal will be to complete his recovery without setbacks, continue contributing to the club culture, and prepare for the physical demands of a return to top-flight rugby league.
If his attitude and resilience to date are any indication, Perham will be ready to seize the opportunity when it arrives.
