Michael Maguire is making significant changes to elevate the standards and culture at the NRL club. One such move reportedly involves starting Blake Mozer as hooker for the Brisbane Broncos in 2025. This decision could be a major setback for Billy Walters, following the dismissal of his father, Kevin Walters, as head coach.
Billy Walters has held the No.9 jersey for the past two seasons, helping the Broncos reach the NRL grand final in 2023. However, a dip in form saw the team plummet to 12th place in 2024, marking their steepest decline in club history. The Broncos currently boast a wealth of options at hooker, including Walters, Mozer, Tyson Smoothy, and Cory Paix, with the addition of Ben Hunt further complicating the selection process. Hunt is expected to play at No.9 when Ezra Mam returns from suspension in Round 10, with Maguire needing to decide who will begin the season as starting hooker.
Mozer, who is out of contract, has been identified as a future State of Origin hooker, and the Broncos are keen to retain the 20-year-old. Many anticipate Walters will start the season in the No.9 jersey, with Mozer on the bench. However, reports suggest Mozer could be given the starting role, which might push Walters to the bench or even out of the squad when Mam returns. If Walters loses his starting spot, he could face a stint in Queensland Cup or seek opportunities with another club.
Maguire praised Mozer’s development, telling the Courier Mail: “Blake is developing well. I’ve really enjoyed talking to him about the role of a nine. He’s been good with the way he’s gone about his training and learning his craft.” Speaking to SEN radio, Maguire added: “I’m spoilt for choice in that department, but it will all sort itself out. They understand I can only select one or two each weekend, but it’s been great to watch them train.”
The changes come as a tough blow for Billy Walters, who struggled emotionally after his father’s dismissal. He even stepped down from a Brisbane radio role due to on-air criticism of his father. Players have noted Maguire’s efforts to overhaul training standards and attitudes, addressing concerns that standards had slipped under Kevin Walters. According to journalist Michael Chammas, players “walked all over” the previous coach.
NRL great Scott Sattler recently defended Billy Walters, suggesting he deserves his place in the squad and questioning the decision to drop him. “Billy has really improved over the last three years. He’s become a very capable first-grade hooker. To get rid of Billy, I think you’d be cutting your nose off to spite your face,” Sattler said. However, he also acknowledged that Cory Paix may leave the club due to limited first-grade opportunities.
As Maguire looks to reshape the Broncos’ lineup, his decisions will likely have significant implications for both individual players and the club’s future.
