The Brisbane Broncos have given rugby league Test centre Justin Hodges more than six weeks off to deal with "personal issues".

Hodges has begun rehab following a shoulder reconstruction but the time off means work on a new centre partnership with star recruit Israel Folau can't begin until January 26.

"Justin Hodges has been granted a leave of absence from the Broncos until January 25th," Brisbane chief executive Bruno Cullen said in a brief statement.

"Following Justin's shoulder reconstruction surgery and the commencement of his rehabilitation program, he has experienced some personal issues that require him to spend this period of time away from the club.

"Because of the very personal nature of the matter both Justin and the club will not be commenting on it further.

"We look forward to Australia Day (January 26) when we expect a fit and healthy Justin Hodges to return for what we expect to be an exciting and rewarding year."

Hodges' shoulder injury forced him to miss the recent World Cup tournament.

Meanwhile Brisbane have also played down reports hooker recruit Aaron Gorrell's season maybe over before it started.

It was reported earlier in the week the former Dragons rake may need major knee surgery but scans have since cleared him of any serious structural damage and he is back training.

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