Brisbane will get an early and prolonged taste of life without Ben Hunt after the halfback was ruled out for up eight NRL matches with a torn hamstring.
The Broncos had been hoping Hunt, who is headed to St George Illawarra next year, would only miss three weeks with the injury suffered in Thursday's 32-8 win over the Sydney Roosters.
However, it proved much worse, with scans confirming he'll be sidelined for six to eight weeks.
Making matters worse for Brisbane, likely back-up half Benji Marshall broke his wrist while playing in Queensland Cup last week.
It means bench utility Kodi Nikorima - who often provides impact out of dummy half, will likely slot in at halfback alongside five-eighth Anthony Milford.
Nikorima has experience in the halves, having taken the Broncos to an under-20s grand final as a playmaker.
The Broncos (3-3) have endured a difficult start to the NRL season through a wretched early draw, but have an easier run in the next two months.
The only other top-eight team they will face is Manly, although they do come up against pre-season favourites Penrith in round nine.
