At just 18, Tautau Moga was hailed as the next Israel Folau.
Five years later, the injury-ravaged flyer finally appears a chance to live up to the hype after emerging as an NRL round-one bolter at Brisbane.
The ex-North Queensland speedster is set to make a shock Broncos debut at left centre in Thursday night's season opener at Cronulla after training strongly inside winger Corey Oates on Monday.
It would cap a remarkable comeback by Moga, who was thrown an NRL lifeline by Brisbane in October.
Moga hit the ground running on 2012 NRL debut for Sydney Roosters, earning comparisons with the code hopping Folau.
He has shown little speed since, due to a horror injury run that has included three knee reconstructions in four seasons.
However, Moga - who relocated to the Cowboys in 2014 - has finally found his feet at Brisbane.
The 105kg Oates on Monday all but confirmed fellow beast Moga would play centre on a giant left edge for Brisbane.
"I think he's had a pretty good pre-season so hopefully he can prove he's worth that spot this weekend," Oates said of Moga at left centre.
"I'm sure he will show everyone his talent and that he can actually play."
Kiwi international Jordan Kahu is expected to be named on the right wing inside James Roberts at Titans recruit David Mead's expense.
Mead looks set to miss out on a Broncos NRL debut after a disappointing stint in this month's shock World Club Challenge loss to Warrington.
"We have some big outside backs - some are bigger than me - so it's good to have that backline covered," Broncos forward Alex Glenn said.
Regular bench utility Kodi Nikorima is expected to miss out on round one after training in the reserve grade ranks on Monday.
Kiwi international Glenn looks set to take up Nikorima's bench role against the Sharks.
"Having that utility role, I don't mind it as long as I am in the team," said Glenn, one of 20 Broncos off contract this year.
"But this year I need to play my best football - I want to stay at this club.
"I have to prove that I still have a lot left in me.
"The only way I can prove my worth is out on the field."
Meanwhile, ex-New Zealand captain Benji Marshall did not feature in the main training group as he recovered from an achilles complaint suffered at the Auckland Nines.
Brisbane will name a 21-man squad on Tuesday before the final 17 is confirmed on match day against the defending premiers.
