Queensland great Darren Lockyer insists that discussions regarding Sam Walker's possible move home to Brisbane are "premature", revealing he believes the star will remain at the Roosters for "pretty much his whole career".
Walker, who was a standout performer during the Roosters 60-18 triumph over the Dragons on Anzac Day, is currently contracted with the Roosters until the end of 2025.
With ageing Broncos playmaker Adam Reynolds off contract at the same time, Brisbane officials could be tempted to make a move for the younger halfback who hails from Queensland.
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The 21-year-old came through the Broncos' junior system before joining the Roosters in 2019.
The Broncos have strong options and depth for when the time comes to replace Reynolds in the halves, with 24-year-old Jock Madden currently contracted until the end of 2026.
Lockyer, who is a board member for the Broncos, also noted the emerging talent in teenage academy star Coby Black.
"I think it's a bit premature," Lockyer said of the Walker speculation on Wide World of Sports' QLDER.
"You've got someone like Jock Madden there… there's Coby Black who is coming through the system.
"So I think the Broncos are pretty comfortable with where things sit.
"They've got a lot of faith in those two players that I mentioned behind Adam. The other player, Ezra Mam, he could end up in the No.7 too.
"So I think we are comfortable there."
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With the retirement of star five-eighth Luke Keary at the end of this season, league legend Wally Lewis agreed that it would be hard to envision the Roosters allowing their halfback to go onto the market come November 1.
"I think a lot of people would like to see him coming back to Brisbane but I agree with you Locky, the Roosters are a professional club and they don't waste good talent," Lewis said.
"Certainly if they see him as being the backbone of the side and being the guy that can be quite creative for all the stars that they have in the backline."
Lockyer agreed, replying: "If there is talent and players there that they want to keep, they don't generally lose them.
"They'll find a way."
Reynolds will face his potential replacement in Walker on Friday night when the Broncos take on the Roosters at Suncorp Stadium.
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