Broncos lock‑forward Corey Jensen, 32, announced his immediate retirement after doctors warned that continuing to play rugby league was unsafe.
The former premiership player was diagnosed with blood clots in his lungs following a bout of illness in round seven, prompting an extensive medical evaluation that concluded his condition posed a significant risk on the field.
At the same time, the NRL is poised to confirm a landmark television contract that will deliver roughly $1 billion in revenue, extending the partnership with Channel Nine on free‑to‑air and Foxtel on pay‑TV through the end of the 2034 season.
Jensen's medical retirement
After becoming unwell in round seven, Jensen underwent scans that revealed pulmonary blood clots, a serious health issue for a contact sport athlete.
He disclosed, "it's no longer safe" for him to play rugby league, a statement that reflects the medical team's assessment and his decision to step away from the game.
Jensen's departure comes after a season that saw him lift the NRL premiership trophy with Brisbane, capping a career that spanned more than a decade.
NRL secures $1 billion broadcast contract
The Australian Rugby League Commission is set to ratify a seven‑year agreement that keeps Channel Nine as the free‑to‑air partner and Foxtel as the pay‑TV provider.
The deal, valued at around $1 billion, will fund league operations and club initiatives until the conclusion of the 2034 season, reinforcing the NRL's commercial footing against rival codes.
Industry analysts expect the influx of funds to support player development pathways, facility upgrades, and the ongoing expansion of the competition's fan base.
Implications for Round 24 teams
Jensen's exit narrows the Broncos' forward options ahead of the upcoming round, forcing coach Brad Thorn to adjust his rotation and promote younger talent.
The new television arrangement also influences club budgeting for the next six years, with teams anticipating higher revenue shares that could affect recruitment and contract negotiations.
Fans and commentators will be watching closely to see how these developments shape the competitive landscape as the NRL moves into the latter stages of the season.