With the off-season comes the usual troupes.

Talk of expansion, the divisions talk, player movements and of course post-season rankings.

Today we're here to focus on the rankings. More specifically, the NRL halfback rankings from 2023.

Please keep in mind that these rankings are based only on 2023. Both NRL and Origin performances will be taken into account. Not specifically who is the best halfback outright.

Before we start, I'm going to take a moment to answer some of the usual questions to appear in the comments to any sort of rankings.

Do I even watch football? Yes, every game.

Are my eyes painted on? No. That would be funny though.

Who am I? Just a fan.

With that said, below are the top 10 NRL halfbacks based purely and totally on 2023:

3. Nathan Cleary

Let me preface this by saying Nathan Cleary had the greatest 20 minute individual spell in a big game I've ever seen in the Grand Final.

He is probably the best halfback in the game right now and is on track to top some of the very best ever. Potentially even the best.

2023 NRL Grand Final - Panthers v Broncos
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - OCTOBER 01: Nathan Cleary of the Panthers celebrates scoring a try during the 2023 NRL Grand Final match between Penrith Panthers and Brisbane Broncos at Accor Stadium on October 01, 2023 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images)

I just think there were two better numbers sevens, all things considered, in 2023. I'll see you in the comments.

His 2023, for Penrith saw - 22 games for eight tries, 20 try assists, 18 line break assists, 22 forced drop outs, over 480 kicking metres per game, 125 run metres per game and a tackle completion of almost 88%. Not bad!