The Brisbane Broncos should come into the 2026 NRL season as one of the most settled squads, having taken out the premiership last season.
But ‘should' is the operative word in this instance.
With youngsters banging the door down, a key injury, and veterans heading towards the end of their careers with fitness questions lingering, there are still plenty of big issues for Michael Maguire as he looks to create his own dynasty at Red Hill.
Here are the big selection questions which will shape the pre-season at the Broncos.
» Broncos current Best 17, 2026 squad
Does Brendan Piakura claim a starting spot?
One of the eyebrow-raising calls early in 2025 was Brendan Piakura being overlooked for Jack Gosiewski.
Michael Maguire made no secret of the fact he was going to pick players who were training well, and buying into what he was putting down at pre-season.
Not starting kicked off a difficult season for Piakura, with mixed performances and time out of the side through form and injury.
But that's not to say he can't get back into the best 17 for 2026.
He has an enormous amount of talent, and that has been on display at various points of his career to date.
What is clear is that he will need to buy into the pre-season if he is a chance of starting in Round 1.
Not being a Queenslander, I’ve never taken any real interest in the Bronco’s squad.
It’s an eye-opener to see the problems facing Madge.