With the new year fast approaching, these 10 players are set for a breakout NRL season in 2020.
KYLE FLANAGAN
The new Sydney Roosters halfback has huge shoes to fill with the NRL premiers, but rarely do they take a gamble that doesn’t pay off. He’s no Cooper Cronk, but will have him as a tutor – which is the next best thing.
BRADMAN BEST
The 18-year-old played three NRL games at the end of 2019, scoring a try as well as a try assist, line-break and three tackle breaks. With his big frame and undeniable talent, he’ll be hard to overlook as the starting centre at Newcastle.
BRODIE CROFT
Brisbane Broncos need him to be the breakout star in 2020. They’re desperate for a long-term halfback, and should he reach his potential, he could be the answer they’re looking for.
MO FOTUAIKA
Although the 20-year-old was Gold Coast’s player of the year in 2019, he is yet to get the attention he deserves from the rest of the competition. Another solid season should do the trick.
JOE STIMSON
Not many players go on to bigger and better things when they leave Melbourne Storm, but this skilful second-rower is a breakout star in the making and will get the chance to prove it at Canterbury.
TOMMY TALAU
Benji Marshall described the teenage centre as the player with the most potential he has seen since James Tedesco. He’s exactly the type of player the Wests Tigers will need in 2020.
TOM GILBERT
North Queensland have high hopes for this impressive 19-year-old, who was named Queensland Cup rookie of the year, lock of the year as well as Townsville Blackhawks’ player of the year in 2019.
BILLY MAGOULIAS
The rampaging lock already has an impressive NSW Cup career, including setting up a miracle win for Newtown in the State Championship. He’s only played two NRL games for Cronulla but could fill Paul Gallen’s vacant No.13 jersey in 2020.
OREGON KAUFUSI
One of Parramatta’s best young talents, Kaufusi has recently re-signed until the end of 2022. Despite a stacked forward pack, will form a big part of the Eels’ title challenge in 2020.
BILLY BURNS
The 21-year-old could form a crucial part of Penrith’s forward pack in 2020, and it doesn’t hurt that he loves scoring tries. Last season he was the top tryscorer for the Panthers in NSW Cup with 12 in 19 games, and scored two for the NRL side in the final game of the season.