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.
2. Ben Te'o
Te'o was part of Billy Slater's staff in 2025, and while he had a major falling out with the Brisbane Broncos and Michael Maguire this year, it hasn't dampened his ability, or desire to eventually hold a head coaching role.
The former forward, now 39, has received plenty of credit for his work as a defensive coach over the journey.
His 174 game NRL career, to go with 98 top flight rugby union games makes him a well-rounded prospect, with Te'o also playing seven games for Queensland throughout his career.
He is seen as a future head coach in the game, and has already held that exact wole in the Queensland under-19 set-up.
