Billy Slater Steps Down as Queensland Coach: Who Could Replace Him?

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Billy Slater has officially stepped down as Queensland Maroons coach, bringing an end to one of the most successful coaching eras in the State of Origin side's history.

Slater confirmed he will not continue as Queensland coach in 2027, ending his five-year tenure in charge. His departure comes just weeks after he had suggested he was open to continuing in the role.

The decision leaves the Queensland Rugby League with a huge task: finding a coach capable of replacing one of the most successful coaches in Maroons history.

Slater took over the Maroons job in 2022 following the death of Paul Green and immediately made his mark.

Under Slater, Queensland won three State of Origin series, including back-to-back victories in 2022 and 2023. Overall, he leaves the position with a 7-5 record across 12 Origin matches.

His biggest achievement, however, may have been the way he helped transition Queensland into a new generation.

The likes of Reece Walsh, Tom Dearden, Patrick Carrigan, Selwyn Cobbo, Jeremiah Nanai and Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow all became important parts of the Maroons setup during his reign.

His final campaign ended in disappointment, with NSW winning the 2026 decider at Suncorp Stadium.

Who Could Replace Billy Slater?

With Slater now officially gone, the QRL has several potential options.

1. Cameron Smith

The obvious headline candidate.

Cameron Smith is arguably the most recognisable Queensland rugby league figure available for the job.

The former Melbourne Storm and Queensland captain knows Origin better than almost anyone, having played a record 42 Origin matches and captained the Maroons during the greatest period in their history.

Smith has also worked within the Queensland system, giving him an understanding of the players and culture surrounding the Maroons.

The major question is whether he actually wants the job. Smith has previously been linked with coaching opportunities but has generally been reluctant to commit to a full-time coaching role.

If he can be convinced, however, he would be extremely difficult for the QRL to overlook.

2. Ben Te'o

Ben Te'o could be the most intriguing option.

Te'o was appointed to the Queensland coaching staff for the 2026 Origin series, giving him direct experience working alongside Slater and the current Maroons playing group.

He also has an extensive playing background, representing both Queensland and Australia during his career. Most importantly, Te'o already understands the current Maroons environment.

That could make him an attractive option if the QRL wants continuity and familiarity rather than a complete reset.

3. Johnathan Thurston

Could Queensland turn to another Maroons legend? Johnathan Thurston would certainly bring enormous credibility to the role.

The former North Queensland and Queensland superstar is one of the greatest players in Origin history and was a central figure in Queensland's dynasty.

The obvious issue is coaching experience.

Unlike Te'o, Thurston has not established himself as a senior NRL coach. But the QRL could decide that his knowledge of Origin, leadership qualities and relationship with Queensland players make him worth considering.

It would be a huge gamble, but potentially a hugely popular appointment.

4. Darius Boyd

Darius Boyd is another former Queensland star who has moved into coaching.

Boyd was appointed coach of the Queensland Under-19 side in 2025, giving him direct experience within the Maroons pathway.

The former Queensland and Australian fullback understands the representative environment and has already begun developing the next generation of Maroons.

However, jumping from the U19 level to the senior Origin job would be a significant step.

Could Slater's exit be a blessing in disguise? Hard to say at this moment in time, but Slater despite stepping down after a series loss, has built a strong foundation for the next coach.

And with NSW now entering a new era under Matt King, the battle for State of Origin supremacy could look very different in 2027.