Kevin Walters has been sacked as Broncos head coach.
The decision was reportedly made following a recent club-wide review.
One year after a grand final appearance, Brisbane had a hugely disappointing 2024 campaign.
Their 12th-place finish marked the worst single-season slide down the ladder in the club's history.
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Kevin Walters sacked by Brisbane Broncos
In a statement on Thursday evening, the Broncos confirmed that Walters is "stepping down" from his role as head coach.
"Aside from playing here, it’s been the greatest thrill and honour of my life to have coached the Broncos," Walters said.
"Coaching in the NRL takes a toll, not just on the coach but also their family – it’s time for me to step away and spend some quality time with my loved ones, who have supported me all the way over the last four years.
"I’m grateful to the club for providing me with the opportunity to be head coach and we have come a long way from the wooden spoon to last year’s run to the grand final.
"I wish the team and the club all the best."
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Broncos chairman Karl Morris also spoke on the decision to part ways with Walters.
"We feel deeply for Kev," Morris told News Corp.
"He will always be a respected guy and a legend of the Broncos and he will always be treated that way.
"Of course I am shocked. This is a huge job and a pressure job at the Broncos.
"We have great appreciation for Kevvie’s efforts and wish him well."
According to the Sydney Morning Herald, the decision was made via a mutual agreement between the club and coach.
Walters began his four-year stint as Broncos head coach in 2021.
After two consecutive finishes outside the top eight, the former NRL player guided Brisbane to the 2023 grand final, which they lost in heartbreaking fashion to Penrith.
With young talent and Origin-level stars at the club including Payne Haas, Reece Walsh and Pat Carrigan, the side was expected to challenge again in 2024 but fell shockingly short.
Walters concludes his time at Red Hill with a 51 per cent win rate.
Who will be the next Brisbane Broncos coach?
The search is now underway for a new coach to lead Brisbane in 2025.
Current NSW Blues coach Michael Maguire is the preferred candidate, per News Corp. He is reportedly willing to resign from his Origin job to take up the Broncos role.
Other available options with NRL experience include Jason Demetriou and Justin Holbrook.
Former Eels coach Brad Arthur has recently inked a one-year deal with Leeds in the Super League but may consider a move back to Australia.
Ben Te’o and Trent Barrett were notably appointed as assistants for next season before Walters' axing. Both could be considered for a larger role.
