‘Really good decision’: The reason Walsh rejected an extra $2 million to re-sign with the Broncos.
Broncos fullback Reece Walsh has been praised for making the “really smart decision” to consider “the bigger picture” and turn down the potential to make millions more dollars.
Walsh has agreed to a five-year deal at $1.1 million each season rather than testing his market value.
The 21-year-old is said to have received offers of up to $1.5 million per season from competing teams, thus signing this five-year deal will leave up to $2 million on the table.
However, the NRL 360 panel highlighted why Walsh’s decision is wise, as they believe he would earn more money in the long run if he stays.
“I think if Reece Walsh goes to the open market there’s no question some of the lower ranked sides would be prepared to pay $1.5m per season,” he said.
“But we’ve often discussed the idea that, as a player, you’re willing to accept staying in a successful system and having a chance of winning a premiership.
“Let’s also not forget that he is such a rock star off the field that there are going to be companies lined up to have Reece Walsh signed to endorse things, so he’s going to make plenty of money off the field and when you balance it all out it’s a good deal for everyone.”
Paul Kent then discussed the pitfalls of negotiating a hefty contract with a new club.
“I think the Broncos have done a particularly good deal to get him for that, but the real upside is this,” Kent went on to say.
“I’ve seen guys take money to go to other clubs and they’ve gone to places where the system doesn’t suit their football or the strength of the squad isn’t what they’re used to playing in, and they don’t quite meet the mark of one of what they’re paid to do but two of what their own expectations are of their own performance.”
“And while that contract is wonderful, the next one isn’t as terrific because they’ve tarnished their reputation as a player by failing to deliver on their large contract at the next club.
“Reece Walsh is a young man and we would all agree has his best football ahead of him and is at a club that suits his footy, so take a little bit less to stay at the club where everything is in the right aspect for him as far as lifestyle, style of footy, direction of the club, it’s a really smart decision from Reece Walsh to stay.”
Braith Anasta called Walsh “the biggest brand in the game” and praised the young gun for taking everything into consideration.
“It’s a great signing, five years for this kid who is an absolute superstar, not only on the field but off it. It’s a great result,” he said.
“You’ve always got to look at the big picture and you’ve always got to be happy or you’re not going to play good footy, it’s as simple as that.”
Leave a Reply