Broncos coach Michael Maguire remained silent on Friday when asked about the latest round of criticism directed at him.
But Broncos great Darius Boyd has entered the fray for the 52-year-old manager, arguing that Brisbane’s return to the promised land last season should help him reach 2027 despite a disastrous title defence.
Broncos head coach Michael Maguire spoke to the media on Friday. Getty
The Broncos are desperate to end a seven-game losing streak against the Sharks at Suncorp Stadium on Saturday night.
Languishing in 13th place in the standings with 14 points, they must win eight of their last nine games to have any chance of reaching finals football.
Speculation surrounding Maguire’s future as Broncos manager has intensified in recent weeks.
Respected News Corp journalist Brent Reid said this week that if Maguire were to be re-signed beyond his current contract, which expires at the end of 2027, it would cause a “mass exodus”.
Reed also said the unrest among players was more serious than reports suggested.
Meanwhile, former Broncos captain Gorden Tallis has reignited his feud with Maguire at the Fox League. NRL 360 this week, noting that if the Dragons signed him – and they were encouraged to give him a call – they would find themselves “in the second division”.
When Maguire was asked about the criticism during his captain’s press conference on Friday, a smile appeared on his face.
“I don’t pay attention to it,” he said.
“It’s part of the journey.
“At the end of the day, we need to come tomorrow and play the best we can.
“I thought we played a really good game last week against a quality team (after the loss to the Roosters).
Adam Reynolds and Michael Maguire. NRL Images
“…This group just needs to focus on what we’re after.”
Brisbane’s seven-game losing streak is the longest losing streak for a sitting premier since the Western Suburbs Magpies in 1953.
But Maguire isn’t giving up on his approach.
“This is called long-term experience,” he said.
“I’ve probably seen most things in the game here, and I see a gaming group that is focused on what we’re all talking about. I won’t share what we’re talking about, but the group knows what we’re after and how we want to operate.”
There’s no denying that the Broncos have dealt with a ton of injuries this season.
Reece Walsh, Adam Reynolds, Ezra Mam, Ben Hunt, Patrick Carrigan, Payne Haas, Brendan Piakura and Corey Jensen have all missed several games in 2026, while Billy Walters is yet to make first grade this season as he recovers from a torn cruciate ligament.
“I think it’s a great test for a group of men when you go through that (tough period),” Maguire added.
“I’ve been through this before when I was coaching.”
Boyd, who played 206 NRL games over two spells for Brisbane and won the premiership with them in 2006, defended Maguire on Wide World of Sports. KLDER This week.
“For me, Madge is definitely safe,” he said.
“He earned that respect by winning the competition (in 2025).
“Obviously this year hasn’t gone the way they wanted. Injuries also play a big role. At the end of the day, it’s hard work, it’s a hard business.”
“But I think he’s certainly earned that right and respect.”
Kevin Walters guided Brisbane to victory in the 2023 grand final by a bronco.
The Broncos finished 12th in 2024 and Walters, a club legend, took a hit.
Dave Donaghy and Carl Morris were chief executive and chairman of Brisbane when Walters was sacked and still lead Red Hill.
Many are saying that in light of this, Maguire may not be secure in his job.
“All this is good to say, but who will you replace him with?” – Boyd said.
“Because if there’s a better candidate, show me. It’s all smoke and mirrors. Everyone loves to talk. The Broncos are a powerful club with a lot of history, so if you don’t get results, there will be people who will speak their mind.”
“But I think internally they wouldn’t be panicking yet and just worried about getting through the next couple of games to make sure they get back on track and hopefully compete for the final.”