NRL Injury Update: The Broncos confirm a disturbing injury analysis for Reece Walsh as two other standout players get the bench.

The Brisbane Broncos have confirmed that their star fullback, Reece Walsh, suffered a facial fracture following a severe head collision during Thursday night’s match.

Walsh was forced to leave the field in the first half of Brisbane’s game against the Panthers after colliding with center Taylan May, resulting in a laceration under his left eye.

Although the 21-year-old initially passed his Head Injury Assessment (HIA) and attempted to return to play, swelling around his eye impaired his vision, preventing him from continuing.

In a statement issued on Friday, the Broncos revealed that scans have verified Reece Walsh’s facial fracture, although a specific timeline for his return has not been announced.

“Reece underwent a CT scan at the hospital after our return to the team hotel last night, which confirmed a facial fracture,” said Broncos head of performance Dave Ballard.

“Due to this injury, he is unable to fly back home and is currently being driven to Brisbane today by our staff.

“We will evaluate the duration of Reece’s absence from the game once the injury has stabilized, following consultation with a specialist in the coming days.

“Reece’s health and well-being are our primary concerns, and we are committed to ensuring his proper care. Our immediate priority is to safely transport him back to Brisbane before determining our next steps.”

The NRL Physio has estimated that Walsh could be sidelined for approximately four to six weeks.

This announcement comes after confirmation from Kevin Walters that prop Payne Haas will undergo knee surgery, resulting in an absence of four to six weeks.

Haas sustained the injury during a match against the Rabbitohs last Thursday and was absent from the game against the Panthers.

“He’s undergone scans. It’s estimated to be a four to six-week recovery period,” Walters stated on Fox League.

“He’ll require minor knee surgery. He’s been dealing with discomfort since the trials and the first two rounds.

“The medical team has thoroughly assessed him, and surgery is scheduled for early next week. It’s a minor procedure, and we anticipate a recovery time of four to six weeks.

“In my view, this is a positive outcome. It’s much preferable to a lengthier absence or missing a significant portion of the season.

“Additionally, Adam Reynolds missed action after Round 2 due to a knee problem, but fortunately, serious damage has been ruled out.”