Reece Walsh has long been one of the NRL‘s most dangerous fullbacks, but could his future lie in the halves? After dismantling the Penrith Panthers, some of Brisbane’s biggest names believe a Darren Lockyer-style switch may eventually be inevitable.
Walsh’s brilliant display in Brisbane’s 14-12 upset win over the ladder-leading Panthers has reignited calls for the 24-year-old to become the focal point of the Broncos’ attack. With Adam Reynolds nearing the end of his career, the conversation has quickly shifted from what Walsh can do at fullback to what he could become as a permanent playmaker.
Former Broncos half Luke Keary was among those to back the idea, comparing Walsh’s development to club legend Darren Lockyer, who famously transitioned from fullback to five-eighth and became one of the greatest players in rugby league history. Corey Parker also supported the concept, believing Walsh has all the attributes to thrive closer to the ball.
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The timing of the discussion is no coincidence.
Against Penrith, Walsh produced arguably his best performance of the season, finishing with three try assists while regularly stepping into the front line to organise Brisbane’s attack. He also nailed the match-winning sideline conversion, ending the Broncos’ eight-game losing streak and keeping their faint finals hopes alive.
What stood out wasn’t just his brilliance.
It was how often Brisbane looked to Walsh as its chief playmaker.
With Reynolds returning from injury and easing back into the side, Walsh assumed far greater responsibility with the ball in hand, controlling attacking sets and creating opportunities across the field. The performance prompted renewed discussion about whether Brisbane’s long-term future should be built around Walsh rather than waiting for life after Reynolds.
Interestingly, Walsh isn’t dismissing the idea himself.
The Broncos superstar revealed he grew up playing in the halves and admitted it could be an option later in his career. While he remains happy at fullback, he acknowledged the move “might be something for the future” once he gains more experience.
For now, Brisbane has little reason to make an immediate change.
Walsh remains one of the game’s elite fullbacks and showed against Penrith exactly why he is so dangerous with space and freedom to roam. But as Reynolds edges closer to retirement, the Broncos may already have their next chief playmaker in the building.
If Thursday night’s performance was any indication, the Darren Lockyer comparisons may only just be beginning.
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