With the appointment of Billy Slater, a new era for Queensland Rugby League is underway.

Given the manner of QLD's Origin defeat last season I would be very surprised if we didn't see a host of changes.

Just last week, incoming coach Slater was quoted as saying "There are no positions locked in." If this doesn't foreshadow changes, nothing will.

With plenty of Origin players either out of form or on the downswing of their career, I'd expect to see more than one youngster come into debut.

Below are five bolters who could make their Origin debut come Game 1.

3. Reece Walsh

The Warriors youngster was a shock inclusion last year however missed the game due to injury. That said, with Ponga back, surely Walsh is no longer under consideration?

To be quite frank the current form of Ponga has been less than stellar. Walsh has been far more dangerous thus far in 2022.

Ponga also became a target under the high ball and was routinely outjumped by Tom Trbojevic in previous contests.

Walsh could also very well slot into the utility spot. His speed and elusiveness could cause nightmares for the tiring Blues middles.

Ponga also defended in the line and almost won an Origin game in a roaming role previously. He could switch if Walsh comes into the custodian role.

Walsh has experience in the halves if the Maroons want to go a different route. A long shot at best but an exciting one nonetheless.

It's far more likely that Walsh would be eased in via the bench.