Injured Broncos fullback Walsh in doubt for NRL opener

The No.1 suffered the facial injury in the 24-all draw with Gold Coast in Sunday's NRL Pre-Season Challenge clash.

Broncos' head of performance Dave Ballard said the orbital floor fracture would not require surgery but that he'd be in doubt for the season opener against premiers Penrith on March 3.

"Reece's recovery will be monitored in the weeks ahead before a decision is made on his availability for the opening round of the competition," he said.

Walsh was allowed to leave Red Hill for the Warriors in 2021, blitzing his debut season and only missing a State of Origin debut because of injury.

He was allowed to end that contract early on compassionate grounds, Brisbane welcoming Walsh back as a key point of difference as they seek a finals return in 2023.

The 20-year-old showed plenty of that on the Sunshine Coast against the Titans, scoring an early try and setting up another in the first half.

Lockyer transitioned from fullback to five-eighth with equal aplomb and Walsh has the same left-foot kick and vision to put players into holes like the Queensland legend did.

"I caught the back end of Locky's career and he was an awesome player and one of the best to do it," Walsh said after Sunday's clash.

"There are little things I can take out of his game. The way he kicked the ball and put people in space around him is something I obviously want to be a bit like.

"I am going to play my game and help out Reyn' (captain Adam Reynolds) and the rest of the spine. I want to have a good year."

Walsh has also benefited from sessions with Maroons coach Billy Slater, one of the great modern-day fullbacks.

"Playing the position I do I have got to talk," Walsh said.

"I was fortunate to be in a couple of (Origin) camps and have Bill by my side and he has been awesome with some tips he has given me … and now I use them.

"He has taught me to take control of the team, be as loud as I can and direct them around the field and be clear with my calls."