Damien Cook might soon trade the Red V for the UK Super League, but he remains optimistic about St George Illawarra's future.
The departing veteran believes several young talents on the squad are poised to make their mark on rugby league's biggest stage.
Although Cook is set to join the Castleford Tigers in 2027, he has identified key Dragons teammates who he anticipates will earn honours with the NSW Blues, even amid a challenging season for the club.
As the Dragons prepare for their upcoming match against the Wests Tigers, they find themselves at the bottom of the ladder, having suffered 14 losses.
However, Cook perceives a brighter future ahead when he looks around the dressing room.
"The Couchys (Toby and Ryan Couchman) definitely have something going on there (in regard to representative honours)," Cook told the Daily Telegraph.
"Then you look at Dylan Egan; if he keeps on improving, there's another Liam Martin on the way there.
"You look at Hamish, and I have played with Cameron Murray, and they're very similar in their ways.
"He's (Stewart) playing a bit of back row at the moment, but I love him when he's at lock as well for us.
"I don't want to put pressure on him, but I'm sure I'll see Hamish in that Blues jersey one day.