After just missing out yet again on a maiden finals appearance, the Dolphins are primed to make history this year if they can keep a fit squad on the field.
Injuries decimated their forward stocks in the first half of the 2025 season, before their backs were hit as the year drew to a close. With the likes of Daniel Saifiti, Tom Gilbert and versatile utility Max Plath out of action long-term, their depth was stretched beyond capacity.
Jamayne Isaako's 2025 try-scoring season
This year however, their depth is something to be envied, despite some retirements (Mark Nicholls, Kenny Bromwich) and departure to rival clubs (Josh Kerr, Aublix Tawha) of a number of their 'big men'.
The majority of their forwards are set to be available from the early rounds, including Origin representative Thomas Flegler, who is slated to return for his first NRL game since Round 5, 2024.
This means some true talents and club favourites may struggle to find a place in their best 17, including Connelly Lemuelu, Ray Stone, Kulikefu Finefeuiaki and the Storm-bound Oryn Keeley.
For the backs, fans will demand Trai Fuller be in the team somewhere. With the arrival of Maroons representative Selwyn Cobbo and consistency of unheralded performers Jamayne Isaako and Jake Averillo, it's hard to also fit in young guns Tevita Naufahu and Jack Bostock, who is returning from an ACL injury.
- Casualty ward: All the latest injury news
- Comings and Goings: 2026 Signings Tracker
- Witzer Pre-Season Challenge Draw
Best 17
1. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow
2. Jamayne Isaako
3. Jake Averillo
4. Herbie Farnworth
5. Selwyn Cobbo
6. Kodi Nikorima
7. Isaiya Katoa
8. Daniel Saifiti
9. Jeremy Marshall-King
10. Tom Flegler
11. Max Plath
12. Tom Gilbert
13. Morgan Knowles
14. Kurt Donoghoe
15. Felise Kaufusi
16. Francis Molo
17. Trai Fuller
