Ex-NRL bad boy Todd Carney’s shock Brisbane Broncos role

Former NRL bad boy Todd Carney has played a surprise role at the Brisbane Broncos as Michael Maguire shakes up the club.

Former NRL bad boy Todd Carney was called upon by Michael Maguire to address the Broncos squad about “thinking about your decisions before you do it” as the new Brisbane coach attempts to spark a Red Hill revolution.

Brisbane players were at the centre of a host of off-field incidents following the 2024 season, with five-eighth Ezra Mam set to face court this month on alleged drug driving charges.

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Carney won the Dally M Medal in 2010 but was his own worst enemy during a career littered with misdemeanours that ultimately resulted in his playing days being cut short.

However, the 38-year-old has since turned his life around and has given up alcohol, taking a role in the Titans’ pathways system as a coach after working in Gold Coast schools.

Todd Carney has moved into coaching in recent times. Picture: DC Sports Photography

Carney spent a decade in the NRL with three clubs. (Photo by Matt Blyth/Getty Images)

Speaking to media on Tuesday, Broncos enforcer Payne Haas revealed that Carney’s advice struck a chord with his teammates.

“Just thinking about your decisions before you even do it (was the main message). It could really affect your career, especially if you’re not thinking about it,” Haas said.

“It’s a privilege to be in the position we are and little things can add up to big things. I followed Toddy’s career, I used to love him as a player, and to see the man he is now is pretty cool.

“He’s gone through lots of things and experiences that he shared with us.

“We are young players, and he was young at the time as well, so he was just sharing his experiences and what we should watch out for.”

Haas went on to explain that Maguire’s influence in pre-season hasn’t just been about their on-field performances, having finished 12th in 2024.

Instead the former NSW coach is hoping to make the Broncos squad “buy in” to a new approach and mentality.

“We are a young group and just being men about being honest and upfront to each other. That’s what we are taking away this pre-season and all the boys are buying in and having a red-hot crack,” Haas said.

“I know what Madge (Maguire) is about, especially having him in Origin.

“I know what he brings and what he expects of us players which has made it easier to transition. I’ve gone through three coaches now so I am used to it all.”

Originally published as Ex-NRL bad boy Todd Carney’s shock Brisbane Broncos role