Kevin Walters does not think Wayne Bennett will leave Brisbane next year, but will throw his hat in the ring if the Broncos job becomes available in the next 12 months.
Brisbane has guaranteed that Bennett will see his contract in 2019, but it has been speculated that at the end of the NRL season the master coach will pull the plug out of the socket after the Broncos have rejected his pitch to stay in 2020.
Anthony Seibold of South Sydney and his premiere ship-winning mentor Michael Maguire are already linked to the Broncos job.
While Walters – coach of the Queensland State of Origin – said he had not contacted Brisbane, he kept the door open for an approach.
Walters, however, expected Bennett to see his 26th – and it seems definitive – season next year on the Brisbane rudder.
"No, we did not (had contact with Broncos) There is a bit going on in the coaching world, but I think it's smart to just stay behind", Walters told Sky Sports Radio.
"I am very happy with what I am doing (in Queensland), I keep saying that.
"As far as I can see, Wayne Bennett will coach the Broncos next year, I do not think this will change.
"But if that position becomes available in the next 12 months, you would certainly want us to think about it."
Broncos CEO Paul White was forced to hold a press conference last week to tackle speculations that revolved around Bennett's future.
But ex-Brisbane captain Walters believed that his former club had dealt with the situation well.
"There has been speculation around Wayne (but), Wayne Bennett has a contract with the Broncos for next year – I do not know why everyone jumps up and down," he said.
"They are in no hurry (to have a coaching conversation), the Broncos and Paul White have said that.
"They will make a decision when necessary, it does not have to be that way.
"At the end of the season they will make a decision about who is coaching in 2020, not 2019.
"There is still enough time for the Broncos to make a decision about who they want to bring their team forward."
Bennett, 68, had hoped to continue playing in 2020 before engaging in the role of football director, while current assistant Jason Demetriou takes over the role of head coach.
Bennett has made no secret of his desire to coach in his 70s and has not ruled extending his glittering career at another club.
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