If being in an NRL Top 30 squad is not enough to suggest Egan Butcher is a rising star then the fact he's still 18 may just well convince.
A talented back-rower with brute strength and power, Butcher is the younger brother to Roosters forward Nat, and has been touted as a star of the future after catching the eye of many throughout his junior development.
Having just finished a full season with the SG Ball side, Butcher made a seamless transition into the Jersey Flegg Cup squad at the back end of 2018 and helped them to fifth on the competition ladder.
Butcher made his representative debut for the NSW Under 16's side in 2016, and since earned selection in the NSW Under 18's side this season, helping them to a thrilling 16-10 victory at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
He re-signed with the Roosters earlier in 2018 for a further three seasons – offering perfect depth to the Roosters forwards ranks as he continues to get a strong pre-season under his belt.
Although they already boast one of the best forward packs in the competition, with Boyd Cordner, Victor Radley and Angus Crichton making up their starting back-row, Butcher may very well find himself in contention for an NRL debut in 2019, such is his potential and undeniable talent.
