Brisbane Broncos forward Corey Jensen has announced his retirement from the NRL at just 32 years old, bringing an unexpected end to a career that reached its peak with a premiership victory.

The decision came after Jensen was diagnosed with pulmonary embolisms, or blood clots in the lungs, following a health scare earlier in the 2026 season. Medical specialists advised that returning to professional contact rugby league would create serious risks to his health.

For Jensen, the announcement marked an emotional goodbye to the sport he had dedicated nearly a decade to, including successful spells with the North Queensland Cowboys and Brisbane Broncos.

Why Did Corey Jensen Retire From Rugby League?

Corey Jensen’s retirement was forced by medical advice after he developed serious blood clot issues.

The Broncos forward became unwell after Brisbane’s Round 7 match against the Wests Tigers and was later diagnosed with pulmonary embolisms affecting his lungs.

After undergoing medical assessments and speaking with specialists, Jensen was told that continuing to play professional rugby league was not safe.

The diagnosis meant he would need long-term medical treatment, including blood-thinning medication, making the physical demands and risks of contact sport too dangerous.

Corey Jensen’s Emotional Retirement Announcement

Jensen described the decision as one of the hardest moments of his career.

After years of sacrificing his body for rugby league, he was forced to step away not because of a loss of passion, but because of circumstances beyond his control.

The Broncos forward said he had hoped to return to the field but accepted the medical advice given by specialists.

His retirement marks the end of a playing journey that took him from a developing forward into an NRL premiership winner.

Corey Jensen’s Journey From Cowboys to Broncos

Before becoming a key figure at Brisbane, Jensen began his NRL career with the North Queensland Cowboys.

He made his first-grade debut with the Cowboys and spent five seasons at the club, making 58 appearances.

In 2022, Jensen joined the Brisbane Broncos, where he became an important part of the forward pack.

His consistency, work ethic and defensive effort helped him earn respect among teammates and coaches.

Broncos Premiership Success and Career Highlight

The biggest moment of Jensen’s career came with the Brisbane Broncos’ premiership success.

The forward played a role in Brisbane’s championship-winning campaign, achieving the ultimate goal many rugby league players spend their careers chasing.

Winning a premiership gave Jensen a career milestone that few players achieve.

His retirement comes only months after reaching the highest point of his professional career.

How Many Games Did Corey Jensen Play?

During his NRL career, Corey Jensen built an impressive record across two clubs.

His career included:

  • 95 games for Brisbane Broncos
  • 58 games for North Queensland Cowboys
  • More than 150 NRL appearances overall

Known as a reliable forward, Jensen earned praise for his toughness, consistency and team-first approach.

Brisbane Broncos Pay Tribute to Corey Jensen

The Broncos praised Jensen for his contribution both on and off the field.

The club highlighted his professionalism, leadership and commitment during his time in Brisbane.

Teammates and coaching staff also paid tribute to a player who was respected for his attitude and willingness to put the team ahead of himself.

The Health Battle Behind Jensen’s Retirement

Pulmonary embolism occurs when blood clots block blood flow in the lungs.

For a professional athlete involved in a high-contact sport like rugby league, the condition creates significant concerns because collisions and physical impacts increase medical risks.

Jensen’s case highlights the difficult decisions athletes sometimes face when health concerns bring their careers to an unexpected end.

What Is Next for Corey Jensen?

Although his playing career has ended, Jensen has a strong background outside rugby league.

He is a qualified sports scientist and has experience in understanding athletic performance and training.

Jensen said he would take time to consider his next steps after retirement.

His knowledge of sport could open opportunities in coaching, performance analysis or player development in the future.

Reaction From NRL Fans

News of Jensen’s retirement has generated emotional reactions from rugby league supporters.

Many fans praised him for his determination and the way he handled his career-ending diagnosis.

Supporters also highlighted that his premiership achievement means he leaves the game as a champion.

Corey Jensen’s Legacy at Brisbane Broncos

Corey Jensen may not have been one of the most high-profile names in the NRL, but his value to his teams came through reliability and commitment.

He represented the type of player every successful club needs:

  • Hard-working
  • Consistent
  • Team-focused
  • Respected by teammates

His career ends earlier than expected, but his contribution to Brisbane’s premiership success ensures he will remain part of the club’s history.

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Conclusion

Corey Jensen’s retirement is a reminder of the unpredictable nature of professional sport.

After overcoming years of challenges and reaching the highest point of his career with a Brisbane Broncos premiership, Jensen has been forced to walk away because of a serious health condition.

While his time on the field has ended, his impact on the Broncos and the wider NRL community will continue to be remembered.