Nathan Cleary is once again at the center of controversy ahead of tomorrow's State of Origin decider. At just 27, he has already accomplished more than many of the game's greatest names, including several NRL Immortals. Yet, despite his accolades, critics continue to argue that Cleary will never match the legacy of Andrew Johns, widely regarded as New South Wales’ greatest ever halfback. But unlike Johns, who debuted in Origin in his late 20s and only reached his peak in his 30s, Cleary is still years away from what many believe could be his prime. The Penrith playmaker already has four NRL Premierships under his belt and led the Blues to back-to-back Origin series wins in 2021 and 2022. The debate surrounding Cleary’s legacy intensified during Monday night’s episode of 100% Footy on Nine’s Wide World of Sports, where Phil Gould, Paul Gallen, and Cameron Smith weighed in. Gould passionately defended Cleary, dismissing claims that he isn’t an Origin great. “This kid has already achieved so much, and he’s only 27,” Gould said. “His focus, determination, and dedication to the game already make him an Immortal in my eyes." "Unfortunately for the Maroons, he hasn’t even reached his peak yet — most Origin greats don’t until their late 20s or early 30s.” Both former Origin captains, Cameron Smith and Paul Gallen, strongly backed Gould’s comments, agreeing that Cleary’s best is still yet to come. As the decider looms, all eyes will be on Cleary. And if history is any guide, the best may truly be yet to come.