Broncos flyer Reece Walsh has revealed an NFL switch could be on the cards in the future if he achieves his goals in rugby league.
Meanwhile, veteran rugby league reporter Phil Rothfield has issued a big warning to the pair of referees set to officiate in Las Vegas.
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WALSH’S HUGE NFL REVEAL
Broncos superstar Reece Walsh has revealed he’s consider trying his hand at cracking the NFL in the future, currently on the verge of signing a new deal to remain in Red Hill.
According to The Courier Mail, the gun fullback’s management have begun discussions with Brisbane bosses regarding an extension worth north of $4 million.
His new deal could reportedly see him remain at the broncos until at least the end of 2028, becoming the club’s newest $1 million marquee man.
But at only 21 years of age, Walsh has a long career ahead of him and could have the star power to become an instant hit in the United States.
While the young gun admitted he still has ambitions to reach the top of the NRL, he could one day attempt to make a cross-code switch.
I’m not too sure. I’m so early in my career… Those boys (Jarryd Hayne and Val Holmes) did a lot in their careers and then made the change,” Walsh said.
“I have so much more I want to do in the game but maybe in a few years I would … we’ll see what happens.”
The Broncos have been training at the Los Angeles Rams’ facility ahead of the Las Vegas season opener, rubbing shoulders with NFL superstars.
Walsh even reportedly put on a pair of gridiron gloves and received passes from prop Matin Taupau who played quarterback during the session.
“Now that I have these gloves on, I’m going to be hitting up Abdo for an exemption to wear them (against the Roosters), so we’ll see how we go,” Walsh quipped.
“It was awesome. We watch the sport (NFL) and you wonder how they make those catches and do the amazing things they do.”
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BUZZ’S BIG REFEREE CALL
Veteran rugby league reporter has revealed Adam Gee and Ashley Klein will be appointed to officiate the two Vegas clashes and levelled a big warning to the whistleblowers.
Speaking on Sky Racing’s Big Sports Breakfast, Rothfield explained the referees will be in control of how entertaining the games will be for the new American audience.
“The NRL are going to announce tomorrow that Adam Gee and Ashley Klein will be the two referees and why this is really important is that we are going onto Fox Sports 1,” Rothfield said.
“A huge network in America, and we can’t knitpick, we need to have a fast, open game of rugby league to show the world.
“Adam Gee did that in the grand final, Klein I hope sort of replicates his performance and we do get to see that.”
However, with so much hype and eyes on Allegiant Stadium, Rothfield believes the two games will have the intensity of a representative encounter.
He explained in certain games, like State of Origin, referees refrain from blowing their whistle and the Broncos, Rabbitohs, Sea Eagles and Roosters could attempt to exploit the leniency.
“My only concern is that I think the coaches will know it will be a bit like an Origin game, there will be a reluctance to blow penalties,” Rothfield said.
“Will they try and take advantage of that? I’m sure its been discussed in most of team meetings… thinking they will be able to get away with a little more.
“I hope that’s not the case… there’s going to be a lot of spotlight on the referees, I think they’ve picked the right guys though.”
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