Ash Taylor has been very impressive in his debut season, and after watched him play I don't think Porthoz and co have been unjustified in talking him up as having great potential. His kicking game, and ability to control a match is exceptional for someone of his age and experience. His debut season reminds me a lot of Adam Reynolds', hopefully his running and passing game can come along at a better rate.
But that is the thing, at this stage it is potential only. As others have said there have been plenty of kids who've come on the scene and shown promise without kicking on. There is a long way to go yet, and any discussion about him being a future rep player is a bit silly at this stage. I wasn't around here in 2012 but I'd wager there was more than one person who had a certain B Barba locked in as the next QLD fullback...
I do agree that if Ash Taylor can continue to mature into a consistent first grade half, his game would likely be more suitable for the Broncos - partnering Mild. However, I am glad Bennett made the decision he did. There is now doubt that right now, I would prefer Hunt in our team. This season, and next, our premiership window will be wide open, and a more experienced halfback is needed to capitalise on it. Ash is still relatively unproven at first grade level, and completely untried in big games. Nor has he experienced the pressure of playing for a premiership contender, week in, week out. Backing Hunt over Taylor to win us a premiership in the next two years was the right call.
Bennett himself admitted he rates Taylor when he released him, earning a fair bit of goodwill from Ash in doing so. He had a hand in him going to a club just down the road, on a two year deal.* He's signed one Broncos half until 2017, and extended the other for longer. All things going to plan, in 2018 I would honestly be surprised if we didn't see a new and improved Ash Taylor, with two years FG experience under his belt, back at Red Hill to help keep the dynasty rolling!
* I have a vague memory of reading he was heading Titans way so he could stay based in Brissy - is anyone able to confirm this? If so, gets even better.