Who is in line to replace Brad Fittler as NSW Blues coach?

Brad Fittler’s six-year tenure as NSW Origin coach is expected to end after game three in Sydney on July 12 – but who should be his replacement in 2024?

If ‘Freddy’ won the series this year against Queensland, it would have triggered another year on his Blues contract. However, Wednesday night’s thumping defeat by the Maroons leaves him on the brink. 

Now the decision to stick with Fittler or seek a fresh face is left with NSWRL Chief Executive David Trodden.

Mail Sport has assessed the available candidates – and whoever gets the nod will have their work cut as the ruthless Maroons strive for three successive series wins under Billy Slater next year.

Justin Holbrook

He is available, after he was sacked by the Gold Coast Titans on Thursday, effective immediately.

Holbrook enjoyed some success on the Glitter Strip – playing finals footy in 2021 – but ultimately was let go by CEO Steve Mitchell due to his team leaking too many points in 2023.

He does have an eye for young talent, after blooding Jayden Campbell.

Is Justin Holbrook the man to replace Brad Fittler as NSW Blues coach in 2024?

Greg Alexander’s rugby league knowledge is second to none – but he has been an advisor to Brad Fittler the past two series that NSW have lost

Greg Alexander

Boasting an impressive rugby league IQ, ‘Brandy’ wouldn’t be out of place in the hot seat. He has worked as an advisor under Fittler in recent years which may work against him.

His commitments with Fox League and SEN Radio may also see the Panthers great reject an approach.

Andrew and Matty Johns

Having the siblings together in the Blues coaching box would be great theatre – but first the brothers need to reconcile their differences.

Both understand the game better than most, with Joey’s passion for the jersey obvious in commentary for Channel 9.

Older brother Matty is often painted as a larrikin, but given Craig Bellamy at the Melbourne Storm raves about the Fox Sports’ identity’s rugby league prowess, the pair worth considering.

The Johns’ brothers offered to coach Samoa at the 2022 World Cup with cross-code superstar Sonny Bill Williams – but the bold approach was politely declined. 

At the moment the Johns’ brothers aren’t seeing eye to eye, but the pair coaching NSW together wouldn’t be dull

Ricky Stuart won the 2005 series when in charge of NSW – but then came up short in 2011 and 2012

Ricky Stuart

On passion and desire alone it is worth a thought.

Contracted with the Raiders until the end of 2025, he would need clearance from the NRL to juggle both roles.

Previously won the 2005 series for NSW – but lost when in charge during a second stint back in 2011 and 2012.

Geoff Toovey

Another candidate who wears his heart on his sleeve – and bleeds blue.

‘Toovs’ guided the Sea Eagles to the 2013 NRL Grand Final – and showed he still coaching blood in his veins after helping Samoa qualify for the World Cup final last year.

Michael Maguire is the current coach of New Zealand – and would be a smart choice to replace Fittler for NSW

Geoff Toovey is another candidate who wears his heart on his sleeve – and bleeds blue

Michael Maguire

‘Madge’ hasn’t coached in the NRL since he was axed by the Wests Tigers last year, but has the credentials to lead the Blues in the next Origin series.

He led New Zealand to the semi-final of last year’s World Cup – where they were unlucky to lose to Australia – and his passion was there for all to see in the Tales From Tiger Town docuseries.

Danny Buderus

A current NSW Blues assistant coach, ‘Bedsy’ would be a left field – but not the worst option.

He can also call on previous experience as a former assistant, interim head coach and pathways coach at the Knights that followed his decorated playing career.