After finishing the 2025 NRL season in last place, the Newcastle Knights will need to rely on the next generation of young players coming through the ranks as they aim to return to the finals under Justin Holbrook and claim the first premiership since 2001.
Over the past couple of years, the likes of Cody Hopwood, Connor Votano, Fletcher Hunt, Fletcher Sharpe and Jermaine McEwen have been introduced to the NRL after successfully progressing through the club's ranks.
So...who's next?
4. Chase Butler
The youngest player on this list, Chase Butler, has already demonstrated that he possesses all the qualities to become an NRL star in the future, playing a starring role in the No.7 jumper during the 2025 Harold Matthews Cup season, which saw them reach the Grand Final.
A Kurri-Kurri Bulldogs junior, the Maitland-born prospect has already established himself as a top playmaking prospect, which has seen him draw comparison to Andrew Johns due to his kicking game, passing skills and ability to run the attack.
Representing NSW CCC in the Under-18s ASSRL National Championships tournament earlier in the year, Butler could easily be higher on the list but needs to prove himself over the next few years that he can deliver consistent and reliable performances on the field.
I often scratch my head and wonder why clubs that are no chance for the eight do not admit that once they have passed the half-way point of the season, and start giving their youngsters some decent game time.