LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
North Queensland Cowboys head coach Todd Payten has indicated that breakout centre Jaxon Purdue is likely to be included in the wider Queensland Maroons squad during this year's State of Origin series.
Purdue, who debuted at the NRL level last year and can play multiple positions, has been a key player in the Cowboys' lineup this season, consistently performing well.
While there are concerns about depth in the Maroons' backline, Payten believes it would be premature to include Purdue in the Queensland Origin team just yet.
However, he mentioned that there have been discussions about bringing him into the extended squad.
"He'll play Origin one day, I promise you.
Throwing him right at the moment is probably not the best thing for him long-term, but he has so much ability," Payten stated during a post-match press conference following a 90-minute draw against the Penrith Panthers.
He expressed hope that Maroons coach Billy Slater would consider Purdue for an upcoming camp during the series.