Former U20s coach Justin Hodges rates the young guns of the NRL for SuperCoach in 2019

Origin great Justin Hodges knows a thing or two about young stars having been the Queensland Under-20s coach, so we asked him to rate the guys he think will become SuperCoach guns.

As the former Queensland State of Origin Under-20s coach, Justin Hodges knows a thing or two about the rookies coming through the ranks of the NRL.

His dream team, including the likes of AJ Brimson and Jack Clifford, broke the Under 20s Origin seven-year drought when they defeated NSW 30-12 last year.

Justin Hodges shares his insight into Queensland’s young guns. Picture: Darren England

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So Hodgo also knows a winner when he sees one.

Which is why we’ve called upon him to share with us SuperCoaches who he thinks the best rookies are this year.

AJ Brimson is the gun that all SuperCoach players should be going after. Picture: Chris Hyde/Getty Images

Alex “AJ” Brimson (FLB/ 5/8, $462,200, Titans)

Obviously AJ stands out for me. He’d be my number one pick. I think the season he had last year was unbelievable so hopefully he can back it up again this year.

Jake Clifford’s short time with Johnathan Thurston is enough to make a difference to his game. Picture: Ian Hitchcock/Getty Images

Jack Clifford (5/8/ HFB, $348,100, Cowboys)

I think Jack Clifford, having those few matches with JT (Johnathan Thurston), even the last couple of years working with him, I think he’ll be outstanding. Once he learns how fast the game is and he learns to play at that speed at that level, he’s going to be outstanding.

Phillip Sami could be set to thrive with a talented young Titans team. Picture: AAP Image/Dave Hunt

Phillip Sami (CTW, $445,500, Titans)

Young Phillip Sami, who played in my side a couple of years ago, he’s just coming through the emerging squad at the moment so I think he has a bright future. He can fit in the fullback position, wing, centre. He gets through a lot of work and makes a lot of tough carries.

Yes you! David Fifita is a favourite of Origin legend Justin Hodges. Picture: John Gass

David Fifita (2RF, $456,600, Broncos)

I think everyone knows what he can do. He’s already made his mark on our game. Just watching him come through the Under 16 system. He’ll have a massive impact.

Harry Grant is a future SuperCoach gun to watch. Picture: Steve Pohlner

Harry Grant (Not SuperCoach relevant yet)

There’s another young guy called Harry Grant. He’s played a couple of games there at hooker. I think he’s got a good future and has a good teacher down there in (Cameron) Smithy. He’s one guy who could really turn it on.

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Originally published as Former U20s coach Justin Hodges rates the young guns of the NRL for SuperCoach in 2019