With the off-season comes the usual troupes.

Talk of expansion, the divisions talk, player movements and of course post-season rankings.

Today we're here to focus on the rankings. More specifically, the NRL hooker rankings from 2023.

Please keep in mind that these rankings are based only on 2023. Both NRL and Origin performances will be taken into account. Not specifically who is the best hooker outright.

Before we start, I'm going to take a moment to answer some of the usual questions to appear in the comments to any sort of rankings.

Do I even watch football? Yes, every game.

Are my eyes painted on? No. That would be funny though.

Who am I? Just a fan.

With that said, below are the top 10 NRL hookers based purely and totally on 2023:

Hon Mention: Phoenix Crossland

6. Billy Walters

I just want to point out that earlier in the season the Broncos were very publicly trying to recruit Ben Hunt to take over in the number nine.

Billy Walters seemed to take that personally and make it his individual mission to silence his doubters. Safe to say he achieved that and then some.

He played 26 games this year for Brisbane, scoring two tries, assisting two, running for almost 50 metres per game and tackling at 90%.

He was arguably best on ground for the Broncs in their Prelim win over the Warriors. He was very good in the Grand Final also. This kid is legit!