Reece Walsh is due to miss a period of football after the Broncos confirmed scans revealed their star fullback suffered a facial fracture early in Thursday's 34-12 loss to Penrith.

After a head clash with Panthers winger Taylan May just four minutes into the game, Walsh was unable to return to the field despite initially passing a HIA test.

The Broncos confirmed the fracture on Friday, with Walsh being driven back to Brisbane by staff unable to fly with teammates.

The 21-year-old underwent a CT scan at hospital on Thursday evening.

Brisbane have not put a timeline on Walsh's return, but looks set to be sidelined for a period.

"We will be able to determine how much footy Reece will miss once the injury settles down and after we consult a specialist in coming days," club head of performance Dave Ballard said.

"Reece's wellbeing is our priority and ensuring he is well looked after. We will get him safely back to Brisbane and then move forward."

Walsh was left with a nasty gash and required stitches at the ground.

"Thankyou everyone that reached out I appreciate you all," he posted to Instagram with photos of the damage on Friday.

Last year's premiership runners-up slipped to 12th on the ladder following the grand final replay loss with just one win under their belt after three rounds.