He’s one of the best young talents in the country and Dragons coach Shane Flanagan admits there is a “big chance” Jacob Halangahu will debut in the NRL next year.

The 18-year-old has dominated at every level he’s played at, helping St George win their first SG Ball title in more than three decades and representing the NSW U19s and Australian Schoolboys teams this year.

Cut from a similar cloth as Titans wrecking ball David Fifita, the teenager will move into a full-time NRL contract heading into 2025 as he continues to rise up the ranks.

While he wouldn’t fully commit either way, Flanagan heaped praise on the boom rookie and admitted there was one moment at training that ‘shook up’ the coach.

“I wouldn’t put it past him,” he said.

“It’s a big ask, he’s just come out of school. The other day I was just talking to him by chance and he said he’d just been to his school formal. It sort of shook me up … we’re talking about a kid playing first grade that has just been to his school formal.

“We’ll take our time with him, but without a doubt he’s gonna play first grade. I would not put it past him, the way he trains and his attitude towards his footy.

“I’d definitely not write him off, it’s a big chance – I would probably think next year will be more than likely his opportunity.”

Halangahu, alongside fellow enforcers Loko Pasifiki Jnr Tonga and Finau Latu, are part of an exciting young crop at Flanagan’s disposal in the coming years.

While it’s unlikely all three of them will make the jump to first grade in the next 12 months, there’s no doubt the Dragons coach will be keen to lock them in long-term.

Flanagan also addressed the decision from former captain Ben Hunt to return home to the Broncos, wishing the veteran playmaker well in his future endeavours.

“I’m happy for him, good on him,” he said.