By Danielle Smith
Whether it be youngsters who got a taste of the big-time last season, or rookies just starting out, watching the superstars of the future evolve is always exciting to see.
We have picked 10 young guns to keep your eye on for the 2022 NRL season!
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Toby Sexton
There are big expectations around this talented young half. The 20-year-old played 4 games for the Gold Coast Titans last year and made quite the impression, taking the reins while the Titans had many regulars out. He is expected to step up again this season with Jamal Fogarty, Ash Taylor and Tyrone Peachey's all having left the club.
Xavier Savage
At only 19 years of age, there is a lot of talk surrounding this kid. The lightning-fast Raider will be out to impress this year - and when you receive a call from Maroons Coach Billy Slater telling you to "keep in the back of your mind to play and train like you want to be an Origin player" - you know you are on your way.
Blake Taafe
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Thrust into the spotlight last season after the suspension of Latrell Mitchell, Taafe handled the pressure well and held his own. The 22-year-old halfback more than stepped up to the challenge of wearing the number one jersey. Playing 8 games for the Rabbitohs in 2021 and surviving all the torpedos the Panthers could kick at him during the Grand Final, Taafe is well on his way to becoming a household name.
Jack Howarth
When the Melbourne Storm sign a 19-year-old rookie on a long-term deal, we all take notice. The strong centre has played for the Australian Schoolboys as well as the Queensland Under 18s and will only continue to blossom under Bellamy's guidance.
Dominic Young
This man mountain not only has the height and reach over many opponents, but the pace as well. The flying winger debuted for the Huddersfield Giants in the English Super League at just 17, and now 20 years old, he has found a home at the Newcastle Knights and is ready to soar.
Tyrell Sloan
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At just 19, this exciting young fullback is determined to secure a spot in the top side. In his debut season last year, he did everything right and scored six tries in his only five games to make everyone take notice. Sloan is a player Dragon's fans are ecstatic about to have in their side. A star of the future.
Tolutau Koula
There are big wraps coming out from Manly on this kid. Having grown up playing both league and union, the 19-year-old fullback made an impact in both Manly's SG Ball side and then in Jersey Flegg. Expect to see him make an impressive debut for the Sea Eagles this year.
Jock Madden
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Another former Australian schoolboy and having played just three games for the Wests Tigers last season, the 21-year-old impressed many in only a short time in the NRL. One to watch.
Jeremiah Nanai
This 19-year-old back rower was signed by the Cowboys Cairns Academy at just 15 and won the Michael Morgan Medal in the 2020 Aaron Payne Cup. He played just four games in the top-grade last year but expect to see him a lot more this season.
Will Penisini
Parramatta fans keep telling me how excited they are about this local junior. He made his highly anticipated debut for the Blue and Gold in 2021, played five games, scored two tries and will be looking to add to that tally this season.
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Topics: Analysis, Rugby League, nrl, Australia