NRL 2021: Brisbane Broncos sign John Asiata on one-year deal

The Broncos have poached one of the code’s most versatile forwards for the 2021 season as the club’s roster shake up continues.

Jason Taumalolo (right) with new Broncos recruit John Asiata.

Former premiership-winning Cowboy John Asiata has become the latest signing at the Broncos as the club’s roster shake-up continues.

The 27-year-old has turned down offers from seven rival clubs to ink a one-year contract with the Broncos under new head coach Kevin Walters and will begin life at Red Hill on Monday.

The versatile forward has already tallied up 128 NRL games for North Queensland and was a member of their historic 2015 premiership win.

John Asiata is one of the most versatile forwards in the game. Picture: Ian Hitchcock/Getty

Asiata came through the renowned rugby league nursery of Patrician Brother’s College in New South Wales and has gone on to be named North Queensland’s Clubman of the Year on two occasions.

Broncos CEO Paul White described the signing as a coup for the club.

“John brings experience, some grunt and a heap of skill on the football field – he has been a player in demand,” said White.

“But what attracted us to him even more was his attitude and leadership off the field.

“To be chosen as the best clubman from your team not once but twice in five years shows John has the character and qualities we want around our footy club.

“He will add plenty to the Broncos on the field and just as much in the locker room and around the club – we are really excited that he has chosen to join us in Brisbane.”

Asiata is one of the code’s most versatile players, having played prop, second row, lock, five-eighth and halfback for the Cowboys since his NRL debut in 2014.

His addition into the Broncos forward pack will allow Walters some added flexibility into the make up of his engine room for next year.

It comes after Brisbane freed up funds following the departure of Joe Ofahengaue (Tigers) and David Fifita (Titans).

He also becomes Walters’ second signing, following the acquisition of former Titan Dale Copley as the club undergoes a roster shake-up following their wooden spoon finish in 2020.

Originally published as NRL 2021: Brisbane Broncos sign John Asiata on one-year deal