Nikorima appeared under pressure to not only hold his spot but stay at the NRL club after speculation new Brisbane coach Anthony Seibold was keen to offload him to the Warriors following Shaun Johnson's departure.

And the signing of ex-Sydney Roosters reserve No.7 O'Sullivan only appeared to place Nikorima under more stress ahead of the 2019 season.

But Hodges tips O'Sullivan's presence will force the playmaker to find another gear and click with halves partner Anthony Milford under Seibold.

"I think having Sean O'Sullivan here will put bit of pressure on him," Hodges said.

"He has been a wonderful player for the Roosters but having extra pressure knowing a young guy wants to take your position provides more competition and brings out the best."

Hodges is confident Seibold is the mentor Nikorima needs to put his stamp on the No.7 jersey despite the presence of O'Sullivan and the promotion of highly touted teenager Tanah Boyd to the full-time NRL squad.

"I think Seibs is the right guy for that. I am pretty sure Seibs will have his first conversation with his halves because they are the guys who are going to turn the club around and get us that premiership," he said.

"I think Seibs will do a wonderful job. He will really help out guys like Kodi Nikorima, Milf, (hooker Andrew McCullough) - those type of guys who need that extra step and I think he can provide that."

Hodges had close ties with former Brisbane coach Wayne Bennett, winning a title in 2006 together but predicted a bright future for Seibold at Red Hill.

"He has got a really good roster. To lose someone like (Test lock) Josh McGuire (to North Queensland) because of the young guys coming through speaks volumes about the group," he said.

"The next couple of years will be quite bright. I think in the next couple of years the young guys will hit their peak like Payne Haas, Patrick Carrigan, Kotoni Staggs and Jamayne Isaako."

Australian Associated Press