Josh Hoffman is Gold Coast’s big off-season recruit but he still has to prove to the Titans’ coaches he’s the NRL club’s best option at fullback.

Hoffman quit Brisbane to join the Titans last month following Darius Boyd’s return to the Broncos, seeking to play more in his favoured No.1 jersey.

But if the 26-year-old thought he’d just walk into the role at the Titans, he’s got another thing coming in the opinion of Titans’ assistant coach Terry Matterson.

With Will Zillman and David Mead also aiming to be the club’s custodian in 2015, Hoffman is far from a shoo-in for the role.

Matterson says every candidate will be given their chance to shine during the club’s pre-season and trial matches.

“Makes it interesting. There’s a few people vying for that fullback position,” Matterson said.

“Everyone needs to get an opportunity. That sometimes is easier said than done.

“Josh has only just come on board and the other guys are very accomplished in that role.”

Matterson believes the battle to secure the No.1 jersey is indicative of the steps needed to take in the Titans revival.

This year’s finish outside the top eight was the club’s fourth season in a row without finals football, resulting in a review of the club’s operations and the departure of foundation coach John Cartwright.

A two-time premiership player, Matterson says it won’t take much to turn Gold Coast’s fortunes around, in particular a hardening of the club’s mentality going into the new campaign.

“There’s a great opportunity here to freshen things up with the new people coming in and we’ve got some new players as well. That’s exciting,” he said.

“(It’s about) building a real mental toughness. An edge that when things do get tough, these guys are going to fight hard. We’re going to have some challenges throughout the year.”