Reece Walsh reacts to Haas' bombshell defection to Souths

The Rugby League world has been shocked on Sunday with the bombshell that Payne Haas is set to leave the Brisbane Broncos at the end of the season.

And that includes his Broncos' teammate in Reece Walsh.

The superstar fullback posted on his Instagram story to acknowledge the 26-year-old's expected departure news saying "Always love my brother. Make this one (in reference to this season) count."

Having been heavily speculated to go to R360 before their delay, he has instead signed a three-year contract with South Sydney from 2027 onwards, which will see him reunite with former coach Wayne Bennett after rejecting the Broncos' one year extension offer.

The departure of Haas will be a significant loss for Brisbane considering the front-rower has won the most Paul Morgan Medals (club best and fairest) in club history with six.

South Sydney confirmed the report as they released a statement minutes later with the nature of the deal.

"The South Sydney Rabbitohs have lodged a signed contract with the NRL for Payne Haas to join the Club for the 2027, 2028 and 2029 seasons," it said.

"The contract is now subject to the ten-day cooling-off period. The Rabbitohs will be respecting the cooling-off period rules set by the NRL.

"The Rabbitohs will make no further comment regarding this until the ten-day cooling-off period has expired."

The Brisbane Broncos have also come out confirming that Haas has approached the club to let them know of his departure.

"The Brisbane Broncos can confirm that Payne Haas and his management have advised the Broncos he intends to depart the Club at the end of the 2026 season."

"A signed contract reflecting that position has been lodged with the NRL and the Broncos will make no further comment on the matter until the expiration of the normal ten-day cooling off period."

With the 10-day cooling period, it now gives the Broncos until the 18th to convince Haas to change his mind.

Haas and the Broncos will begin their premiership defence against the Penrith Panthers at Suncorp Stadium.