The Queensland Maroons are officially looking for a new coach after Billy Slater decided to step away from the clipboard ahead of the 2027 series.
His decision has been speculated for some time, although it was probably assumed he would keep going for another series despite losing a second home decider in three years this year.
Despite the loss, the QRL had made their view clear - they wanted Slater to continue.
That won't be happening though, and like their New South Wales counterparts, the QRL will now need a new boss for 2027.
There are plenty of options, although the bulk of the obvious list have very little in the way of head coaching experience.
Here are the seven names most likely to be in the mix for the Queensland job in 2027.
4. Johnathan Thurston
Thurston has already seemingly ruled himself out of contention for the Queensland job, but he has been involved at staff level with the state since retiring, and is one of the greatest readers of the game.
Thurston has no head coaching experience, but is still heavily involved with the game.
Given he is on the Cowboys board, there could be an obvious conflict there, but Thurston bleeds Maroon.
He loves his state, and there is a world where he answers if they come knocking.
