Brisbane’s long list of talented up-and-coming forwards makes it almost impossible to single one out.

That may be why, when asked to do so, Broncos hooker Andrew McCullough nominated a back.

David Fifita, Payne Haas, Tevita Pangai, Matt Lodge, Joe Ofahengaue and Jaydn Sua have all made waves at Red Hill this year.

But, when asked for his pick on Fox League’s NRL 360, the Queensland No.9 went left field.

“Kotoni Staggs, if you want to throw him in the forward pack,” McCullough said.

“He can play a range of positions, doesn’t get as bigger raps as some of the other guys do.

“But what I see him do at training as a smaller guy … he competes hard, been desperate and scored some good tries.”

Staggs started the season in reserve grade but with regular injuries has impressed when given his chance by coach Wayne Bennett, scoring a try on debut when thrust into the centres.

Not one of the club’s top-30 contracted players, the 19-year-old only moved to Brisbane at the start of last year.

He had been on the Broncos’ radar three years earlier though, with the club signing him to a development contract despite his decision to remain at home in country NSW.

But he has looked right at home in the NRL after just one season in the under-20s and a handful of appearances playing in the backrow and centres for Intrust Super Cup side Redcliffe.

“It’s quite exciting, a young guy like that that doesn’t have the physical stature of some other guys,” McCullough said.

“It gives some hope to other youngsters that if you’re willing to put in the hard work you’ll get some reward.”