Hayze Perham believes he has the potential to become the next big NRL fullback, although he faces an uphill battle to secure regular minutes.
Perham has emerged as a shining light in Brisbane's (7-15) dismal premiership defence as he produced a sparkling performance against Canberra to help the Broncos to victory.
His game-winning try, a lovely lofting pass to set up winger Grant Anderson, and his five from six conversions showed coach Michael Maguire that he has a bright future.
It comes as the 27-year-old has reportedly inked a one-year deal to continue with Brisbane until the end of next season, although Perham knows he'll have to fight to keep in the No.1 jersey.
That's because representative fullback Reece Walsh currently occupies the position but missed Friday night's game because of a syndesmosis injury.
Walsh has experienced a lull in form this season though, potentially leaving the door open for Perham.
And when asked if he thinks he could be the NRL's next star fullback, he said yes.
"At the end of the day, it's just footy. I really love playing the game. I really love the position that it puts me in," Perham told AAP.
"It was definitely a tough time last year, and to be in a position like this (is great), I'm just more happy that the boys can come out here and get a win.
"I'm really looking forward to what the future holds."
Perham's rise comes after he missed the entire 2025 season with an ACL injury, and has started just four NRL games this season.
But the 27-year-old has Walsh to thank for helping him rediscover his potential.
"Obviously, he (Walsh) is a world-class player. Unfortunately, he picked up that injury, but it obviously gives me an opportunity," Perham said.
"He helps me out a lot in all different areas of the game, so I try to ask him as many questions as I can."
Perham has clearly impressed Maguire, who gushed over the replacement fullback in his post-match press conference.
"I was really pleased for Hayze. He's been on a journey too, and sometimes it doesn't go the way you like," the coach said.
"He's got his best footy in front of him. We've just got to keep him on the field now, and the way he played tonight was excellent."
Australian Associated Press
