The Brisbane Broncos have confirmed young gun Coby Black will depart the club at the end of the 2026 season.
Black has long been seen as a key player for the future after coming through the academy program and impressing in lower grades.
The talented 19-year-old, who had been touted as the long-term successor to Adam Reynolds, made headlines with a staggering 46-point haul while playing for Burleigh in the Mal Meninga Cup last year.
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He has also represented Queensland in the under-19s.
Black’s shock move comes just weeks after the Broncos confirmed the signing of Melbourne Storm star Jonah Pezet, who will play at Parramatta next year before heading to Brisbane in 2027.
Pezet’s impending arrival has reportedly played a part in Black’s decision to seek a fresh start at the Canberra Raiders, who moved quickly to secure the teenager’s signature.
“Coby has come through our Academy program from the age of 14 and has worked really hard to progress through to our NRL top squad,” Broncos general manager of recruitment Simon Scanlan said.
“While we’re sad to see him leave, we thank him for his dedication and commitment and sincerely wish him every success as he takes the next step in his career.”
Black was always signed until the end of 2026 but became a free agent on November 1.
The Broncos have also recruited former North Queensland playmaker Tom Duffy for 2026 and there is the possibility he will extend if he can impress.
Brisbane already have premiership winning halves Ezra Mam and captain Reynolds on deck for next season, along with versatile veteran Ben Hunt.
Black’s chances of seeing NRL action at the Broncos in 2026 appear forlorn unless the club suffers injuries.
He had been earmarked as the future of the Broncos but instead will be tutored by Raiders coach Ricky Stuart, one of the game’s greatest halves.
– With AAP
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