Karmichael Hunt believes he'll return to the NRL with better skills than when he left 12 years ago, claiming a move to the halves for Brisbane would be "no worries" for the tri-code star.
Hunt's barnstorming kick returns as the Broncos' fullback more than a decade ago remain etched in the memory of NRL fans.
But after stints in the AFL with Gold Coast and Super Rugby with Queensland Reds and the NSW Waratahs he's returned to Red Hill a different player.
"Physically it's an adjustment, just that daily intensity is a step up," Hunt said before Brisbane tackle North Queensland on Saturday.
"But the body feels great and skills are maybe a bit better than when I was here last ... I'll leave those (aggressive kick returns) to Jamayne (Isaako).
"Sure (I can play in the halves); the last however many years I've been playing in the 12 (as a play-making inside centre) and have no issues directing the team around.
"My passing, kicking game, I've got no worries with."
Hunt, 34, is playing Queensland Cup for Souths Logan and will be eligible to play in round 11.
His arrival comes as Brisbane faces the prospect of losing another young talent in Xavier Coates, while Walters is in the market for an experienced playmaker for next season and five-eighth Anthony Milford's rich deal will also expire this year.
Reports on Wednesday claimed 20-year-old Coates has already signed a two-year deal at the Storm to replace departing winger Josh Addo-Carr, with Storm football boss Frank Ponissi confirming on SEN Radio they were pursuing the 20-year-old talent.
It comes after new Broncos CEO Dave Donaghy, fresh from a stint as Storm CEO, voiced his concern over "vultures swooping in to throw ridiculous amounts of money to steal your best talent".
Milford said on Wednesday he'd like to remain at the club but he is earning close to $1 million a season and has performed below his potential since starring in the Broncos' tight 2015 grand final loss.
Meanwhile, Broncos prop Matt Lodge said Walters had apologised to him after reports emerged he would be squeezed out of Red Hill.
"He rang and apologised for it and we had a conversation that I'll keep private, but I'm happy here," Lodge said.
The Broncos controversially offered Lodge a contract after he avoided jail time for a violent rampage in New York City in 2015.
"I've been in a lot worse places than this, I look back on where I've come from and I'm happy where I am," he said.
"I'm fine whatever happens; I came here four years ago with nothing and built a whole life."
Australian Associated Press
