Bennett defends landmark deal for NRL teen sensation

Brisbane coach Wayne Bennett has defended the club’s record re-signing of Payne Haas, amid criticism over the teen sensation’s multi-million dollar deal.

Bennett has revealed 18-year-old Haas knocked back more lucrative offers to stay with Brisbane on a bumper six year, $3.4-million extension – the richest NRL deal in history for a teenager.

And the Broncos coach reckoned Haas’ deal will pay big dividends, leading to more signatures from his young brigade of off-contract forwards.

Bennett admitted he once claimed he would never pay more than $300,000 a year for a forward.

But the Brisbane mentor believed Haas was a special exception, comparing the towering teen with the likes of the NRL club’s greats Darren Lockyer and Karmichael Hunt.

“That (not pay forwards top dollar) was a long time ago, that was before the salary cap changed,” Bennett said.

“But it’s all relevant to your ability. The more ability you have got the more relevant it is.

“And I think the really good ones have always got it (ability).

“Karmichael Hunt came out here at 18 and was outstanding, Darren Lockyer was 18 here when he played and was outstanding.”

Bennett reckoned Haas took less money than the lucrative rival offers on the table.

“I don’t think anyone realises our offer was small compared to other clubs,” he said.

“Well maybe not small but not as high as other clubs that offered.

“He is a player in great demand. We see a long-term future for him here.

“I don’t think he (Haas) was always a Broncos supporter as a kid growing up but he’s here and wants to stay here.”

However, Maroons legend Billy Moore believes the Broncos have acted too hastily in sewing up Haas on such a lucrative deal.

Moore says Haas’s debut mauling at the hands of Bulldogs prop David Klemmer is proof that his ability does not yet justify the price the Broncos are willing to pay for him.

“As a front-rower it’s the hardest job,” Moore said.

“He will be coming up against David Klemmers week after week and he’s going to have to find a way.

“I would have thought another year before I would have signed him to such a big deal.

“Front row is about intimidation and I thought David Klemmer put him in his place.”

Bennett – off contract next year – was tightlipped on his own future after tabling a proposal about his next move to the Broncos board.

Bennett reportedly wants a football director role.

“Ask the CEO. I am not privy to that. That is up to them,” Bennett said of his future.

Meanwhile, Bennett said it was sad to see Broncos forward Korbin Sims link with St George Illawarra on a three-season deal next year.

“We resurrected his career a little here,” he said.

“I would have loved to have kept Korbin. I love what he brings.

“But with the salary cap no-one is getting less every year so we have to keep making decisions like that.”

With AAP