Queensland's State of Origin campaign has been thrown into uncertainty after Tom Dearden suffered a syndesmosis injury that could potentially rule him out for the entire series.

Dearden had firmly established himself as Billy Slater's first-choice halfback after a breakout 2025 campaign, with his rise culminating in a Wally Lewis Medal performance during last year's series victory.

Now, Slater faces arguably his biggest selection dilemma since taking over as Maroons coach.

Does he return to the proven experience of Daly Cherry-Evans and Ben Hunt? Or bring in debutants like Jamal Fogarty, Tanah Boyd, or Sam Walker? 

Each option brings vastly different strengths, experience levels and risks, leaving Queensland with no obvious replacement for one of the most important positions on the field.

Here are the five leading contenders to wear Dearden's Maroons jersey.

2. Sam Walker

Another potential debutant gamble for Billy Slater comes in the form of Roosters halfback Sam Walker.

Walker also has previous experience representing Queensland pathways, having been part of the Maroons' victorious Under-18s side back in 2019, although stepping into top-grade State of Origin would be an entirely different challenge.

Still just 23 years old, Walker has already built a reputation as one of the competition's most dangerous attacking playmakers.

There is no question surrounding his football ability.

Fast, exciting and unpredictable, Walker possesses the type of natural attacking flair capable of changing a game in an instant, something that could heavily appeal to Slater if Queensland are searching for a spark without Dearden.

Throughout his NRL career, Walker has repeatedly shown an ability to step up in important moments for the Roosters, helping drag the tri-colours back from difficult periods and into finals contention.

This season, he has continued to produce, scoring five tries while remaining consistently healthy across nine appearances, an important factor given injuries have interrupted periods of his career previously.

If Slater wants experience, there are safer options available.

But if he wants unpredictability and attacking brilliance, Walker may be the most exciting candidate of them all.