In the challenging arena of the NRL, player salaries often attract significant scrutiny, and Luke Brooks of the Manly Sea Eagles knows this all too well. After spending ten years at the Wests Tigers, where he was one of the league’s highest-paid players, Brooks faced relentless criticism, particularly as the team struggled with poor results and frequent coaching changes, leading to a couple of wooden spoons during his tenure.
Before his transition to the Sea Eagles last year, Brooks earned approximately $1 million annually, a sum that drew ire from fans amid the team’s struggles. Recently, attention has shifted to Dylan Brown, who made headlines by signing a record-setting 10-year, $14 million contract with the Newcastle Knights, a deal described as the richest in the sport’s history.
When asked about the pressures associated with such a lucrative contract, Brooks acknowledged the magnitude of expectations that come with being the highest-paid player. Despite the pressure, he expressed admiration for Brown, stating that if someone is valued at that level, they deserve the financial rewards. Brooks suggested that most people would accept similar offers if placed in Brown’s position.
While opinion on Newcastle’s hefty investment in Brown varies, the playmaker’s critics are expected to intensify if his on-field performance doesn’t match expectations. Brooks, having navigated similar scrutiny, advised Brown on managing external pressures. He shared his own strategy of blocking out negative feedback, emphasising the importance of focusing on the opinions of close teammates and club associates rather than public sentiment.
In Brooks’ view, the support network around a player is crucial for maintaining perspective amidst criticism. He reinforced that if someone truly earns their salary, any negative commentary is often unwarranted. Ultimately, Brooks conveys a sense of solidarity, noting that anyone confronted with the same circumstances would likely make similar decisions regarding their career and financial prospects.