State of Origin legend Andrew Johns believes a media "pile on" contributed to Brad Fittler quitting as New South Wales coach.
Fittler stunned the rugby league world on Thursday when he declined a contract offer from the Blues, despite reports earlier in the week suggesting a deal was done.
In six years as head coach of the men's team Fittler won three series for a 50 per cent strike rate, including his first two in charge.
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But his run ended with consecutive series losses to rookie Maroons coach Billy Slater.
Throughout this year's series Fittler adopted a backs-to-the-wall mentality and went to war with NSW media, accusing journalists of double guessing his selections and not supporting the Blues.
On Wide World of Sports' Immortal Behaviour, Johns was asked whether it played a part in this week's decision.
"Yes, without a doubt," Johns said.
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"The pile-on on Freddy (Fittler) last year was unwarranted.
"Not only Freddy, on (Blues advisor) Greg Alexander too. One thing about Brandy (Alexander) (is) he fronted up every time and answered the questions, even though you could see he was seriously pissed off.
"I thought last year the pile-on was extreme, and I thought it was personal.
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"It happens every year. The Queensland media don't pile on, but we eat our own down here. I thought that was disappointing."
Despite being one of Fittler's right-hand men in Blues camp over the years, Johns had no idea his close friend had decided to quit the job.
"I was blown away, I was so surprised. Shocked, I couldn't believe it," Johns said.
"I was in Newcastle having lunch with mates and it flashed up on the screen, I was like 'what? This has got to be a joke'.
"It's funny how it played out, I just thought it (a new deal) going to happen.
"I don't know what's happened behind the scenes. I'm sure we'll find out.
"I think it is (a mistake). I think he's done an absolutely sensational job and his legacy will be there forever."
Johns was asked by host Danika Mason whether he would be interested in putting his hand up to coach.
The iconic halfback's response was emphatic.
"I couldn't do it. Everyone knows how invested and emotional I get," he said.
"I couldn't do it, for my own health. I couldn't handle it.
"I know I couldn't handle it, if I'm being honest with myself. It wouldn't be fair on the people around me."
As for who will take the reins, Johns rated Raiders coach Ricky Stuart "a $1.01 chance" to be next Blues coach.
Johns suggested Stuart could hand the Canberra coaching reins to assistant Michael Maguire during the Origin period each year.
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