Rugby league requires 60 NRL-standard players for two new teams, raising concerns about the depth of emerging talent.
Rugby league will need to produce at least another 60 NRL-standard players to fill the rosters of the Perth Bears and PNG Chiefs in the next two seasons.
But a brief look at the rookie of the year contenders would be enough to have fans wondering if there is enough young talent coming through to sustain a healthy, expanded NRL.
That is not to question the quality at the top of this year's rookie class, but the depth is a real concern.
Who is in the mix to be crowned the best first-year player at the Dally M awards next month?