Broncos can cope without grand-final trio, says Jensen

All three played in the 2023 grand-final side and have since moved on with Capewell joining the Warriors, Flegler linking up with the Dolphins and Palasia now with Gold Coast Titans.

They will leave a void not just with the quality of their play, but with the big-match experience they enjoyed.

Jensen, 30, played 21 games for the Broncos last year but was left out of the team during the finals.

While Brendan Piakura appears the frontrunner to replace Capewell, coach Kevin Walters has indicated in pre-season Jensen, veteran prop Martin Taupau and 21-year-old front-rower Xavier Willison lead the battle for the two middle forward positions.

Roosters recruit Fletcher Baker will also be a contender when he returns from groin surgery next month.

Big Ben Te Kura, just 19, has also been earmarked for NRL action.

"We've lost a fair chunk of the forward pack that played in the grand final and there are a lot of young guys coming through," Jensen said.

"Marty and myself have a bit more experience but we are all gunning for positions. Having that competition ... they are pushing me every day and I am doing the same to them.

"We have lost a lot of experience but I think the club is still in a great position."

Jensen, who was unlucky not to play any role in the finals after being an integral member of the squad all of last year, said he harboured no hard feelings.

"One hundred per cent, it was disappointing," he said.

"You want to be part of those (finals) games but Kevvie is straight forward. It was his decision and I respect that. I did my part to get the team prepared the best I could in grand-final week.

"I am the fourth oldest player here and I have to find ways to get better."

Meanwhile, winger Jesse Arthars has an ankle injury after rolling it at training but is not expected to miss any game time.

Prop Payne Haas had hamstring tightness at Tuesday's session but the Broncos said it was not serious.

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