James Roberts has signed with the South Sydney Rabbitohs for the next two-and-a-half seasons.
After he was released from the Broncos on Wednesday, Roberts immediately signed with the Bunnies, and will join the club in the coming days.
“I’m really excited to be coming back to Souths and playing under Wayne again,” Roberts told rabbitohs.com.au.
“There are some great players at this Club and I can’t wait to get into training and getting back on the field.
“I want to thank the Broncos for everything they’ve done for me and my family over the past four years, but it’s time to move on and to be coming back to the club that I consider to be home is really special.
“I know what it means to the Members, fans and the community to represent South Sydney.
Roberts will be available for selection for the Rabbitohs from round 13.
Earlier on Wednesday, Brisbane granted James Roberts an immediate release from his contract, on the basis of compassionate grounds.
Brisbane CEO Paul White told the club's website Roberts had asked for the release in order to return home to New South Wales with his young family.
“While we are disappointed to lose James, we understand his position – it wasn’t in the best interests of the Club to stand in the way of a player who has expressed a honest and strong desire to return home,” said White.