The immediate NRL career of Brisbane’s Ben Te Kura is over as he embarks on a new journey, chasing his NFL dream in the US.

The 205cm prop has previously expressed a desire to try his hand at American Football after watching former South Sydney-contracted Jordan Mailata become a superstar of the NFL and win the Super Bowl with Philadelphia last year.

Te Kura was given permission by the Broncos to take a break from NRL training to attend a six-week NFL camp on the Gold Coast in April and May.

In a statement, Brisbane said the 22-year-old would undergo further training in Arizona with a view to being picked up by an NFL franchise.

Mailata entered the NFL after gaining a spot in its international pathway program (IPP) in 2017.

Te Kura had limited NRL opportunities with the Broncos due to the strength of the forward pack and injuries, playing just five games since making his debut in 2023.

“I’m very grateful to the Broncos for everything they’ve done to support me in pursuing an opportunity in the NFL,” Te Kura said.

“Making my NRL debut for the Broncos against the Storm in 2024 was such an unbelievable moment for myself and my family.

“I owe the club so much for the faith they’ve had in me right from day one.”

Brisbane are struggling in 13th position on the ladder and have lost a plethora of forwards to injury and State of Origin for Saturday night’s home game against Cronulla.

Te Kura would have been a handy back-up if fit and firing, but the club have put his wellbeing and aspirations first by releasing him.

“This is an incredible opportunity and one we felt was important to help facilitate,” Broncos football boss Troy Thomson said.

“Everyone at the Broncos wish Ben and his family all the very best for the future.”