Brisbane centre Jack Reed has been ruled out for up to six weeks with a damaged collarbone in another blow to the battling Broncos.

Scans have revealed Reed suffered a dislocated collarbone as well as a slight fracture when he slid into an advertising sign during Brisbane’s 32-0 NRL loss in Melbourne on Friday night.

Reed is out for at least a month – horror news for a Brisbane side needing at least six wins in their final eight regular season games to keep alive their finals hopes.

And the 13th-placed Broncos (6-10 record) are reeling after becoming the first in Brisbane’s history to be held scoreless twice in a season following the last round AAMI Park thrashing.

At least Reed’s injury looks set to provide more time for rookie sensation Corey Oates.

The 18-year-old backrower impressed on debut against Melbourne – especially when forced to slot into the centres to replace the injured Reed.

Brisbane have a favourable run home with five home games starting with top four outfit Cronulla at Suncorp Stadium on Friday night.