NSW State of Origin firebrand David Klemmer is the leading contender to take the prestigious Brad Fittler medal at the state's annual awards night on Monday.
Despite starting from the bench in all three Origin games, the Canterbury star is set to hold off the challenge from Wests Tigers fullback James Tedesco and Manly lock Jake Trbojevic.
However, the outgoing NSW coach Laurie Daley is a confirmed non-starter at Sydney's The Star casino after the NSWRL opted not to renew his contract after the 2-1 series defeat to Queensland.
Klemmer's main competition is Tedesco, who averaged an impressive 173 metres in the three games, but ultimately two metres less than the Blues prop.
Klemmer made headlines after the heartbreaking 22-6 loss in the game three decider, when he revealed Daley had informed him he would start.
However, Daley backflipped on his decision and stuck with Cronulla prop Andrew Fifita, who was alleged to have argued his case to retain his position in the starting side.
The Blues were belted at Suncorp Stadium regardless.
Tedesco also tallied a combined 18 tackle busts for the series, as well as four offloads, four line breaks, and a try in a strong campaign.
After an impressive rookie series, Trbojevic is a dark horse to steal the medal awarded to Josh Jackson last year.
Fifita is likely to be overlooked despite his heroic performance in game one, where he registered 168 metres, seven tackle busts and a try.
He failed to top 77 metres for the rest of the series.
PAST SIX BRAD FITTLER MEDAL WINNERS
2016: Josh Jackson
2015: Josh Dugan
2014: Jarryd Hayne and Ryan Hoffman
2013: Greg Bird
2012: Robbie Farah
2011: Paul Gallen
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