The Brisbane Broncos can confirm prop Corey Jensen will retire from the NRL with immediate effect.
Jensen was diagnosed with pulmonary embolisms in both lungs having become increasingly unwell after the Round 7 match against the Wests Tigers in Sydney.
Since then, Jensen has undergone a long period of treatment under the care of a range of specialists in Brisbane and began a course of blood thinning medication.
Recent test results found that while Jensen does not have an underlying autoimmune issue which caused the clots, he will be required to stay on blood thinners for the rest of his life.
As a result, he cannot continue to play contact sports and has received medical advice to retire.
Jensen said his long-term health had to come first.
“Due to circumstances and medical advice from not just specialists here but from specialists internationally, the recommendation is that I can’t continue playing contact sport,” he said.
“Since I’ve been able to train properly again, it’s been like a mini pre-season and I can do everything other than the contact which is the frustrating part.
Overall, my health's pretty good, I can continue training in the future and it’s not going to affect me in any way.
Corey Jensen Broncos Prop
The 32-year-old began his NRL career at the Cowboys in 2017 and played 58-games for the North Queensland Club - including the 2017 Grand Final - before joining the Broncos in 2022.
“The late Paul Green gave me my debut back then…I was a bit of a late bloomer, so I’m grateful they took a punt on me and I have to acknowledge how much the Cowboys did for my career,” Jensen said.
Over the past five-seasons, Jensen has been a consistent and reliable member of the Broncos’ forward pack and has become a key part of the Club’s senior leadership group.
The Bowen product started in the front-row in the Broncos’ 2025 NRL Grand Final side, celebrated 150 NRL games in Round 4 of the 2026 season and has now played 95 games for the Club.
Jensen received the Kevin Walters Award as the Broncos’ Most Consistent Player in 2024 and was named in the NRL’s Academic Team of the Year in 2025 having completed a Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Science at James Cook University.
Coming down here was kind of a new lease on life, the Broncos gave me the opportunity and I’m eternally grateful for what this Club's done for me both on and off the field.
Corey Jensen Broncos Prop
“It’s such a great organisation with great people, I owe a lot to this place and I wouldn't have achieved the highest accolade in last year’s premiership if it wasn't for the organisation and the people in it.”
Jensen said he was grateful for the unwavering support from his wife and family.
“I have to thank my mum and dad, I come from a small country town and a family of seven kids but they always made things work, they spent hours travelling which allowed me to fulfil my dream of playing in the NRL.
My wife Shannen has been with me through my whole career, she’s seen the highs and lows, sees how frustrated I get, and she’s my biggest fan.
Corey Jensen Broncos Prop
“We’ve done long-distance for six years now… she’s sacrificed so much to allow me to do what I do, so I appreciate everything she’s done and I wouldn’t be where I am without her.”
General Manager of Football Operations Troy Thomson said Jensen’s influence extended well beyond his performances on the field.
"Corey is the definition of a professional, he has an incredible work ethic, humility and commitment to his teammates," Thomson said.
"Watching him fulfil his dream of winning a Premiership last year was incredibly special.
"Even throughout this incredibly challenging period, Corey has continued to contribute to our football program, and has shown immense growth in that area while supporting staff and players with the selfless attitude he's always shown.
He will forever live on the walls of the Broncos from what he’s been able to achieve, and the players and staff members he’s been able to inspire.
Troy Thomson General Manager of Football Operations
Head Coach Michael Maguire said Jensen’s leadership and character will continue to have an impact on the Club.
Corey is an outstanding professional who lives the Broncos’ standards every day, he’s a high-quality individual and puts the team ahead of himself in everything he does.
Michael Maguire Broncos Head Coach
“He is perfect for the culture here at the Club and he helps build sustained success, his record shows that.
“His greatest qualities are his care for his teammates and his ability to always make someone else better.”
