Super League-linked forward back on the market after release over social media activity

An NRL forward who has found himself linked to Super League numerous times over the years is now a free agent after being released for his social media activity.

Brisbane Broncos forward Marty Taupau has been linked with a move to Super League more times than most people have had hot dinners but after being released aged 35, perhaps now could finally be his time.

Taupau was off-contract at the end of the season anyway but his exit has been brought forward with the Broncos releasing him after he liked a social media post criticising the current Broncos’ head coach Michael Maguire.

That post was from former Salford Red Devils and NRL man, and current Oldham player, Elijah Taylor who outlined some of the ways he disliked Maguire’s coaching style.

Taupau liked the post and was met with swift action as the Broncos released him from his deal, making him a free agent with Super League once again viewed as a possible landing spot.

Super League-linked forward ‘regrets’ social media activity that led to release

The 35-year-old forward fronted his teammates and his coach but saw his time with the club cut short, despite posting himself on social media to clarify what had happened.

Taking to Instagram, he said: “Today I liked a video by Elijah Taylor talking about Michael Maguire’s coaching methods. I regret this as it was not my intention to endorse the video. I removed the like immediately after.

“I want to make it clear, I am thoroughly enjoying being coached by Michael Maguire and will continue to do whatever I can to help the Broncos win a premiership in 2025.”

Unfortunately for him, he’s been released and Maguire was asked about that but confirmed that the club were still “working through” it, per The Daily Telegraph.

He added: “I want everyone that is at the club or moves from the club at some stage to prosper on the back of what they do.

“That (Taupau leaving) will be sorted out as we move forward, but the club is still working through a few things.”

Asked for his verdict on Taupau’s effective criticism, he said: “I don’t want to comment on that.

“It’s probably more up to the front office, but I guess things will progress quickly (with Taupau’s departure).

“It’s known where it’s at, but it’s a matter for how the club deals with it now.

“It’s an organisational decision around how we have gone about it.”

With 256 NRL games under his belt and aged 35, could Taupau finally make the Super League move that has been talked about for so long. Currently, Wigan, Salford, and Huddersfield have quota spots available though it’s believed that only the Giants have salary cap space to play with.