He's only 13 games into his fledgling NRL career but Gold Coast's Greg Marzhew has quickly become a vital part of the Titans' line-up.
The 25-year-old, who debuted in round 13 last season, is topping the league in 2022 for tackle busts (29) and emulating the role Penrith star Brian To'o has made his own in recent seasons for taking on tough carries out of defence.
In fact only To'o averaged more post contact metres per game in 2021 with 89.9 compared to Marzhew's 75, the Titan coming in ahead of more illustrious names on that list such as Brisbane prop Payne Haas and Roosters winger Daniel Tupou.
Marzhew's willingness to do take on kick returns and hit-ups hasn't gone unnoticed by teammate and close friend Patrick Herbert.
"Greggy, he's been killing it. He's doing so much for us, getting it out of trouble and he's just a strong bloke," Herbert said.
"That's the modern-day winger.
"Everyone doesn't give them enough credit for the work they do.
"Those are the hardest carries to do. You've got a whole team of 13 on the other end waiting to smash you when you're 10 metres out from your line.
"Greggy's done massive for us."
Marzhew's physical strength - he set club records at the Titans in the bench press (190kg) and deadlift (250kg) before his debut - is obvious, but Herbert believes fans are only just starting to see what the New Zealander can do on the field.
An ever-present for the Titans in 2022, Herbert feels Marzhew is quickly gaining the confidence and belief following a string of games to go with his physical attributes.
"He's got a spot now. He knows his job," Herbert said.
"So it's a lot clearer for him and that's all he needs, just to run hard, tackle hard and he's great at it."
