Anthony Milford is back in Brisbane's feeder system after the former State of Origin playmaker inked a deal to return to his junior club Souths Logan in the Queensland Cup.
Unsigned by the Dolphins at the end of last season, Milford had considered a move to the English Super League to continue his career.
But it's understood the fact he has a young family prompted him to remain in Queensland, where he played with the Magpies as a junior.
Milford's move will theoretically open the door for an NRL return to the Broncos, given Souths Logan currently act as a feeder club.
The 30-year-old played 151 games for Brisbane between 2015 and 2021, before a short stint with Newcastle.
The Broncos have already signed Ben Hunt to come into their halves next year, where he is likely to join Adam Reynolds given Ezra Mam's proposed nine-match ban.
They also have Josh Rogers and Jock Madden in their 30-man squad, albeit with the latter given permission to negotiate elsewhere.
Cody Black is another rising star at the club, with Milford expected to help nurture him at Souths Logan under coach Karmichael Hunt.
"It's a full circle moment for me," Milford said.
"Right now I believe this decision feels right for my little family and I.
"I'm grateful for Wayne (Bennett) and the Dolphins for the past two years and I wish Woolfy (coach Kristian Woolf) and the boys nothing but the best for season 25.
"I'm excited to play under K and I can't wait to get to work with the team."
The signing comes months after Milford's 2015 grand final halves partner Hunt returned to Red Hill, meaning the pair could one day link up again.
Milford's move is expected to have a long-term life after football view to it, albeit with the chance to impress Broncos bosses and new coach Michael Maguire.
"We're very lucky to have someone of Anthony's calibre sign with us here at the Magpies," Hunt said.
"Having him in and amongst some of our younger players will be invaluable to my squad.
"His journey is not too dissimilar from mine and how I transitioned my career in 2021. I'm looking forward to mentoring him over the next couple of years."
