Reece Walsh hailed for $5 million detail in Broncos deal as Billy Slater calls out 'larrikin' tag

Maroons coach Billy Slater has praised Reece Walsh for his unheralded work behind the scenes as the Broncos fullback appears set to confirm a lower than expected $4.4 million contract extension at the club. Walsh was on a reported $600,000 salary having joined the Broncos from the Warriors as a prodigious talent.

And Walsh has risen to become one of the best fullbacks in the game having represented his state across the last two State of Origin series. Walsh's contract has been a talking point for more than 12 months with the Broncos trying to lock down the superstar for the future.

The November 1 deadline was approaching, which would have allowed Walsh to negotiate with other clubs. However, it has been reported - by The Courier Mail - Walsh has all but agreed to remain with the Broncos on a $4.4 million extension, across five years.

The final season of his contract will see the deal reach $1.2 million. This officially makes him the most expensive Broncos player of all time. He will also be the youngest player ever on a $1 million contract. However, the trio of Slater, Brad Fittler and Andrew Johns all thought the deal was a bargain for the Broncos.

The initial deal reported for the last 12 month was set to cost the club $6 million. However, it appears Walsh has taken a slightly smaller contract extension to help the club build a team.

“I think it’s a great deal for the Broncos,” Slater said on Channel Nine. “I think it’s really good for Reece too. He’s close to his family. He’s settled in Brisbane. He could have got another $200k to 300k a year somewhere else, but he wants to play for the Broncos. I think it’s a great deal all round for everyone.”

Johns could not believe how successful the Broncos were negotiating with Walsh. “It’s a steal. It’s an absolute steal. If he stays on the field,” Johns said.

Billy Slater praises Reece Walsh after contract news

While plenty will be made about Walsh's mega contact, Slater was quick to remind fans of Walsh's worth ethic. Slater has worked with Walsh as the Maroons coach and the Storm legend has plenty to teach the young star when it comes to the fullback role.

Walsh may already be the biggest superstar in the NRL at just 22 years old. However, Slater quickly reminded fans the fullback is an incredibly hard worker and is willing to sacrifice a lot to go to the next level.

“He’s 22 years old and played 75 NRL games - the next 125 games will be with the Broncos and that will be the best period of his career," Slater added. “I’ve worked closely with Reece, he’s got a great work ethic.

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"He’s a very respectful young man - he has got a perception out there that he’s a bit of a larrikin and likes the limelight, but he works really hard and he loves the game of footy. The great thing for the Broncos is that you’ve got this young star who wants to be a Bronco — imagine how many clubs out there would love Reece Walsh.”

Walsh's deal has seen the Broncos lock down Ezra Mam, Payne Haas and Adam Reynolds for the near future. Unfortunately, Kevin Walters has a huge task of overturning the team's horror 2024 season. The Broncos missed finals footy for the third time under Walters, which was deemed a huge failure considering the roster.