Cameron Smith to Broncos: Coaching Coup or Storm Succession Plan?

Mat Rogers has raised speculation about Cameron Smith's recent appointment as an assistant coach for the Broncos under Michael Maguire in 2026. Rogers voiced his surprise on SEN radio, suggesting that Smith's move might be a short-term arrangement designed to prepare him for a future head coaching role with the Melbourne Storm, potentially succeeding Craig Bellamy.

Rogers believes that an internal candidate with deep understanding of the Storm system would be ideal, citing Bellamy's two-decade tenure. He described Smith as a controlled and unflustered individual, well-suited to a head coaching position. Smith has reportedly already engaged with Broncos players at a training camp.

Concurrently, Melbourne Storm's Cameron Munster has hinted at a potential retirement timeline, suggesting he has only "two or three" years remaining in his playing career. Munster, who recently re-signed with the Storm until the end of 2027, expressed a desire to retire on his own terms, avoiding prolonged careers impacted by injury.

Despite facing the absence of key players like Eli Katoa, Nelson Asofa-Solomona, and Ryan Papenhuyzen, Munster remains optimistic about the Storm's future, highlighting the potential of emerging young talent within the squad.