AJ Brimson’s Future in Doubt as Keano Kini Claims Titans’ No.1 Jersey
Despite being locked into a lucrative long-term contract, uncertainty surrounds AJ Brimson’s future at the Gold Coast Titans.
NRL legend Greg Alexander believes Brimson may need to leave the Titans if he wants his career to progress, even though the former Queensland Maroons star is signed with the club until the end of 2030. Brimson, reportedly earning around $800,000 per season, committed his future to the Titans last year by signing a six-year extension under coach Des Hasler.
Brimson started last season strongly at fullback and earned a Queensland State of Origin appearance in 2023, having debuted for the Maroons in 2020. However, an injury opened the door for Keano Kini to step up, and the young talent seized his opportunity. Kini delivered a breakout season, scoring six tries and providing seven assists in 16 games. His performances earned him the Paul Vautin Medal as the Titans’ Player of the Season and a call-up to the New Zealand national team, where he excelled in the Pacific Championships.
Kini’s rise has left many questioning where Brimson fits into the team. Speaking on SEN radio, Alexander, alongside Corey Parker and Andrew Voss, agreed that Kini has solidified his place as the Titans’ first-choice fullback. This raises concerns over Brimson’s role, given his six-year, $4.8 million contract, and whether he might be relegated to the interchange bench in 2025 or shifted into the halves alongside Jayden Campbell or Kieran Foran.
Voss was adamant that Kini is the clear No.1 moving forward. “He had a breakout year, won the Paul Vautin Medal, played for New Zealand, and now looks even better,” he said. “He owns the No.1 jersey… forget about Brimson or Campbell competing for it.”
Brimson’s Position Uncertain Despite Long-Term Deal
Alexander pointed out the difficult position the Titans face with Brimson locked into a long-term deal. Parker echoed these concerns, praising Kini’s talent and questioning whether a high-earning player like Brimson could justify an impact role off the bench.
Kini’s performances at the international level have only strengthened his claim to the fullback role, leaving Brimson without a clear starting position. While Hasler is reportedly considering Brimson and Campbell as a potential halves pairing, with Foran moving to the No.14 role, past experience suggests Brimson has struggled to make an impact as a playmaker. If Foran remains at No.7, Brimson could be left in a reserve role.
Ultimately, Alexander believes Brimson’s best option is to leave the Titans if he wants to continue developing as a player. “Early last season, Brimson was their best player at fullback, but I don’t see it happening now,” Alexander said. “For his career to flourish, he needs to leave. He won’t be playing fullback because of how good Kini is.”
