The penny dropped a few weeks back and Jamal Idris went from promising kid to rep-level footballer, says his NRL club coach Kevin Moore.

Canterbury boss Moore has been cautious when asked about Idris' representative claims throughout the season, but conceded on Thursday the giant 19-year-old had not looked out of place in State of Origin.

"It's funny with young people, you can be chipping away at them for periods of time and you don't get a lot of improvement," Moore told AAP.

"Then all of a sudden they sort of turn the corner and he looks to have done that.

"He probably did it a couple of games into the season this year."

Idris, who ran on for the second half at ANZ Stadium, announced himself on the Origin stage with a barnstorming first run and a late try.

"Certainly his first run showed that he was very willing, so the club's really proud of what he's achieved," Moore said.

"It's still a learning curve for Jamal and there were probably a couple of little things last night against Queensland that he would like to improve maybe for the next game.

"But his running game was strong and scoring a try I think was outstanding for him so I think it was a very good debut for a young kid."

Idris came to the attention of NSW coach Craig Bellamy marking Greg Inglis in a Melbourne loss to the Bulldogs this time last year and, ironically, the sides will meet again this Sunday.

Moore said it was Idris' attitude which had been central to his sudden rise.

"Just his overall demeanour, his attitude to preparation and he's looking more relaxed day-in day-out," Moore said.

"His attitude's been great for us and that's certainly been displayed by his form on-field as well, so we're really happy with him.

"There's a long way to go, he's got a long career ahead of him, he's got to make sure that he continues with that and continues to improve all facets of his game."

Idris cut a relaxed figure in NSW's camp, appearing to be just enjoying the ride, and he said he didn't over-complicate his role with the Blues.

"I just thought, 'As soon as I get it, just put my head down and run'," he said.

"That's what they've got me for and that's what I thought I did.

"I can mark (Origin) down next to my name now, can't I?

"But I'm looking forward to the next time."

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