Brisbane and NSW prop Payne Haas is set to come off contract with the Broncos at the end of the 2026 NRL season.
Former NRL star Denan Kemp has dismissed speculation that Haas might leave Brisbane to join the Perth Bears, who are expected to join the competition in 2027. With his contract ending just before the Bears’ proposed entry, some believe Haas could be a marquee signing for the new franchise—potentially earning up to $2 million per year. Other reported targets include Jahrome Hughes, Ryan Papenhuyzen, and Selwyn Cobbo, with AAP identifying Papenhuyzen as a key priority.
Speaking on SEN radio, Kemp said it’s unlikely Haas would leave for Perth, despite the money on offer. “People say he could go, but Payne can earn a million dollars and still chase a premiership somewhere else,” Kemp stated. “That has to be his main focus now—winning. You’d have to offer at least $2 million a year to get him to spend the rest of his career in Perth, when he has other avenues available, even in rugby union. Payne’s got so many options. I just don’t see him making that move.”
Haas also faces significant personal responsibilities. With both parents incarcerated, he has become the legal guardian of his younger brothers, Hans and Geejay, who are still in school. He also shares two young children with his partner Leilani—three-year-old daughter Lalita and five-month-old son Luckee. A move to Perth would mean relocating all six family members, adding complexity to any decision.
Leilani praised Haas for his resilience under pressure: “I’m just so proud of him. He’s mentally strong. With everything going on and being in the spotlight, he’s really stepped up to care for his brothers. I don’t know how he handles it all.”
Haas himself acknowledged the emotional burden: “I’m not angry, but I do feel sad. I feel for my little brothers. Lani supports me so much, and I can’t thank her enough. She’s taken on a lot.”
Elsewhere, Melbourne Storm halfback Jahrome Hughes, also off contract in 2026, shut down rumors of a potential move to Perth. “I think my name’s been floated just because my deal ends then,” Hughes said. “But honestly, I’d love to stay at the Storm long-term. I need to have a chat with J-Rod (club CEO Justin Rodski) soon.”
With the NRL salary cap expected to rise in coming years, the Perth Bears could be in a position to offer record-breaking deals, including the possibility of the league’s first $2 million-a-year contract. North Sydney Bears board member Billy Moore recently predicted a surge in the player market, citing Dylan Brown’s $14 million, 10-year contract with Newcastle as a deal that may soon appear modest by comparison.
