Brisbane Broncos’ championship-winning back five faces internal competition as new signing Grant Anderson arrives determined to earn a starting position. The 26-year-old outside back joins the premiers on a two-year deal after four productive seasons with Melbourne Storm, where he emerged as one of the NRL’s most improved players last season with 11 tries from 24 appearances.
Anderson acknowledges the challenge of breaking into a backline featuring established talents like Reece Walsh, Kotoni Staggs, and Deine Mariner, but remains confident in his abilities. ‘You’re not training every day if you want to play reserve grade,’ Anderson stated during his introductory press conference. ‘That’s not just me – that’s all the other boys here as well. We all want to play NRL and put that Broncos jersey on.’
The versatile back believes his development at Melbourne, where he played alongside stars including Cameron Munster and Ryan Papenhuyzen, has prepared him for this new challenge. Anderson cited the example of Gehamat Shibasaki, who unexpectedly earned a round one starting spot last season that led to Origin selection and premiership success.
While recognizing Brisbane’s exceptional depth in outside backs, Anderson views the move as an opportunity for growth. ‘It was just an opportunity to grow my game and to play with the calibre of players here,’ he explained. ‘That really excited me to try and learn again in another system, and hopefully my game can go to another level.’
The competition for positions reflects the Broncos’ strengthened roster as they prepare to defend their title, with Anderson embracing the challenge of earning his place in the premier squad.