Why it's trending
Drinkwater's candid comments about the Broncos' decision to sign Reece Walsh instead of him were published ahead of their face-off this weekend, sparking discussion among NRL fans about the 'sliding doors' moment.
Scott Drinkwater, the North Queensland Cowboys fullback set to join the St George Illawarra Dragons next season, has revealed he was close to signing with the Brisbane Broncos before opting for Townsville. In comments published by News Corp, Drinkwater said the Broncos made the right call by not signing him and instead bringing Reece Walsh back to the club. 'Looking back, it's the best decision they ever made — not signing me and getting Reece Walsh back, wasn't it?' Drinkwater said, as reported by Zero Tackle.
Drinkwater, who progressed through the Melbourne Storm system, moved to the Cowboys at the start of 2022 on a five-year deal. He has since made 161 appearances and scored 63 tries, becoming one of the NRL's most dangerous fullbacks. The Broncos, meanwhile, chose to sign Walsh, who had debuted with the New Zealand Warriors. Walsh has since played for the Kangaroos and been in the State of Origin mix, validating the Broncos' choice, according to Drinkwater.
The revelation adds context to the careers of both players. Drinkwater's move to the Cowboys has been a success individually, though the Cowboys have not won a premiership. With Tom Dearden injured, Drinkwater's role becomes even more critical as the Cowboys push for the finals. After this season, Drinkwater will join the Dragons under new coach Dean Young.
The upcoming match between the Cowboys and the Broncos will feature a direct showdown between Drinkwater and Walsh, highlighting the 'sliding doors' moment. Drinkwater's humility in acknowledging the Broncos' decision has been praised, but it also underscores the talent depth in the NRL's fullback ranks. For fans, the game offers a chance to compare the two stars head-to-head.
Timeline
- Drinkwater signs with Cowboys
Scott Drinkwater leaves Melbourne Storm and joins North Queensland Cowboys on a five-year deal, after interest from Brisbane Broncos.
- Walsh and Drinkwater rise
Reece Walsh establishes himself at Broncos, playing for Kangaroos and Origin. Drinkwater becomes Cowboys' key attacking player, often near top of Dally M standings.
- Drinkwater reveals Broncos offer
Ahead of a Cowboys-Broncos clash, Drinkwater tells News Corp that Broncos were right to sign Walsh instead of him, confirming previous interest.
- Drinkwater joins Dragons
Drinkwater will leave Cowboys to play for St George Illawarra Dragons under coach Dean Young.
Questions people ask
Did Scott Drinkwater almost join the Brisbane Broncos?
Yes, Drinkwater said there was interest from the Broncos before he signed with the Cowboys. He noted the Broncos ultimately chose Reece Walsh, which he considers the right decision.
Why is Scott Drinkwater trending?
Drinkwater's comments about the Broncos' 'sliding doors' moment with Reece Walsh were published ahead of their match, sparking discussion among fans and media.
Where is Scott Drinkwater going next season?
Drinkwater will play for the St George Illawarra Dragons in 2026, joining Dean Young's squad.
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