Jack Bird has edged closer to an NRL return after the Brisbane utility hit the training paddock on Tuesday for the first time since sternum surgery a month ago.
The high-profile recruit has endured a miserable time since the off-season move north from Cronulla, with shoulder, ankle and sternum setbacks nullifying his impact.
Coach Wayne Bennett effectively ran a line through Bird's 2018 campaign ahead of the operation to address his sternum soreness.
But the surgery went smoothly and, after being spotted running at Tuesday's training session, captain Darius Boyd preferred to keep an open mind on his availability as the Broncos eye the finals series from eighth spot.
"I'm hoping he's back; he's been a great guy around the club and had a hard run of injuries this season," Boyd said.
Bird had shoulder surgery in the pre-season then struggled for form before the decision was made to rest and eventually go under the knife again.
But Boyd believes the former NSW Origin star and 2016 premiership winner could add considerably to an inconsistent Brisbane side if he was fully fit.
"To get someone of Jack's calibre around for the finals would be ideal, but I'm not too sure where he's at at the moment," Boyd said.
Backrower Jaydn Su'A (broken ankle) was the latest to be ruled out for the season after Sunday's heavy loss to the New Zealand Warriors, continuing a run of injuries that have tested the Broncos' stocks this season.
"It's unfortunate (the amount of injuries), but it's part of the game and we're lucky to have so many great young forwards," Boyd said.
