When middle forward Carrigan, who played in the series opener, had ankle surgery after Brisbane's round-13 loss to St George Illawarra, he was expected to miss the rest of the Origin series but he's back for the decider on July 8 at Suncorp Stadium.
"It was a goal of mine," Carrigan said.
"I'm fully confident I can do my job and pull on the jersey for Queensland."
The 28-year-old got through an opposed session on Thursday against the Gold Coast Titans on the Sunshine Coast with flying colours and said he was in no doubt.
"I ticked a lot of boxes and I am ready to go," he said.
Carrigan trained with the Broncos on Monday before joining camp, showcasing the good habits that Slater admires. It's one reason why game two this year is the only match he has missed since his debut.
While there were plenty of dissenting voices when NSW five-eighth Mitchell Moses was picked for game two at the MCG this year, 32 days after he had last played for Parramatta, there has been no noise around Carrigan's selection.
That is largely because of the due diligence of both Slater and Carrigan after his surgery four weeks ago.
"I was working my way back to return for the Broncos," Carrigan said.
"I think when Bill found out I might be available for the Sharks this weekend, that's when things started to transpire.
"It's nice to get the phone call from him to be part of the team, but we've got another job to do next Wednesday."
Carrigan debuted in the same 2022 series as wingers Selwyn Cobbo and Murray Taulagi, versatile forward Reuben Cotter and second-rower Jeremiah Nanai.
Those players haven't all played in the three wins out of four series under Slater, but they are all loyal men who trust their coach, a Maroons legend in his own right as a player.
The rest of the players in the squad, whether veterans or newcomers, all listen when Slater speaks.
"Any kid growing up in Queensland has a huge appreciation for Billy Slater," Carrigan said.
"The way he's helped me, not only every time I come into camp but over the last couple of years with things outside footy too, is something I really appreciate.
"It's his mindset towards the game.
"Whether it's the fundamentals or the details, no matter what position you're playing or whether you're representing your country, he holds the game in such high regard.
"I've done plenty of video sessions with him over the years and he'll always pick up something that helps my game.
"He's a straight shooter and gives honest feedback. That's why players perform under him."
Carrigan will play his 14th Origin match with one goal.
"I was lucky enough to win a decider at Suncorp in my debut series and then lose one in 2024," he said.
"I'd certainly prefer to send Queenslanders to work or school with a smile on Thursday."
