I've said it previously, but I'll say it again..I really don't get where all this Dearden to the Cows is coming from?
The kid has stated he wants to be a Bronco, he has previously turned down the Roosters to stay at the club. As far as I am aware, the Broncos are yet to table an offer to Dearden beyond 2021, so I guess it would be silly for him not to field offers, in the event Brisbane do not want to re-sign him (which I find extremely unlikely).
We have had both Walters & Lockyer come out this year stating that the club see Dearden as the long-term half of the club.
Add to this we have basically been told that Milford won't be around in 2022. Staggs might get the 6 jumper (if he sticks around), who knows what will happen to Croft for 2022 and you've also got Paix who they have been trying to manufacture into a 9 and from all accounts isn't lighting the world on fire in cup.
I also don't like our chances of landing Reynolds as I do not believe he wants to leave Sydney.
Now, that would leave us with Croft (if the club re-signs him) and Gamble as potential halves in 2022?
I know this is the Broncos and we have had some shocking R&R in the last few years but I would struggle to see those two as the halves who the club trot out in 2022. There is no other real half that is available for next year besides Reynolds.
I think Dearden is someone we have to persist with. He is still young and I think he deserves a red hot crack in the Broncos 7 jersey. It is also worth noting that this side wouldn't be an easy task for any seasoned NRL half. If we stuck it out with Milford for 3+ years of stinking it up, I think Dearden deserves the chance to learn and show us what he's got, at least until seasons end, or with a senior half pairing him.