Wednesday's 20-14 Game III loss to Queensland at Suncorp Stadium ended a season where players have spent months essentially living in isolation to ensure the NRL and Origin campaigns could be played.

For Blues' backrower Angus Crichton, the sacrifices made only amplified the hurt of coming up short in this year's Origin campaign.

"Gutted. It really hurts," Crichton said.

"There's no two ways about it, it's disappointing.

"It's been a really big year for a lot of us guys.

"The NRL has sort of been under a microscope this year and the intensity, you're always looking over your shoulder because if you're in the shopping centre, people are getting angry at you because you're not meant to be there.

"It's a whole different sort of year this year, I think everything's been amplified and intensified and I think everyone's keen to put their feet up for a bit now."

The Sydney Roosters' backrower was one of NSW's best across the series, stepping up to replace captain Boyd Cordner for the last two matches after the Blues' skipper was ruled out due to concussion.

On Wednesday night, Crichton made 36 tackles and led the Blues' with 128 running metres in a valiant effort.

The 24-year-old however is just looking forward to spending the next few weeks doing anything but rugby league.

"I'm keen to get back and see my family, my mates, just put my feet up," he said.

"Put footy into the back of my mind for a little bit."

Australian Associated Press