UNUSUAL as it is, there is little wonder a bidding war broke out for the signature of Jayden Nikorima before his 19th birthday. Before he has even played a single game in the NRL.
Brisbane captain Justin Hodges called him one of the fastest players he’s ever seen and his versatility across the back line and at hooker is incredibly rare — not to mention valuable.
But how does a rookie half secure himself a $200,000 a season with one of the best clubs in the competition? It’s almost unprecedented. But watching the highlights of his Junior Kangaroos, Under-20s Queensland Origin and Broncos career and it becomes crystal clear that this teen can achieve anything.
Smaller than the average NYC player but with a stocky, strong build, Nikorima has a deft kicking game, a sharp pass and most importantly, bravery. He runs the ball and takes on the line with virtually no concern for personal safety.
This week on the Market Watch podcast it’s a Robbie Farah special, with Titans coach Neil Henry joining Brett Kimmorley and the boys to take an in-depth look at the star hooker’s contract saga.
He can cover fullback, centre, five-eighth or hooker. And he looks like the guy to add x-factor to the Roosters when fullback Roger Tuivasa-Sheck leaves for the Warriors at the end of the season.
It’s not a matter of if he will play first grade, but when.
Two of the most promising young talents coming out of Queensland, his older brother Kodi has already cracked the top grade for the Broncos, but 18-year-old Jayden had bigger decisions to make.
The Broncos didn’t want to lose him. He led their under-20s to the grand final last year.
Craig Bellamy was chasing him to serve an apprenticeship under Cooper Cronk, but in the end young Jayden could not pass up the chance to work with Trent Robinson and at the Roosters.
His versatility means he can challenge young Jackson Hastings for the five-eighth spot next year, or potentially Latrell Mitchell at fullback.
Either way, the Roosters win.
