A club's most important addition doesn't always come from the transfer market.
Sometimes, it's the player already on the roster, one returning from a long injury layoff, refreshed and ready to contribute immediately.
As the 2026 NRL season approaches, several high-profile players loom as “like new recruits” for their clubs.
8. Tom Gilbert (Dolphins)
Tom Gilbert's influence often shows up in the less glamorous areas of the game.
A Queensland Maroons representative, he built his reputation on defensive workload, consistency, and effort plays through the middle.
Prior to injury, Gilbert regularly produced 40+ tackles per game while offering strong support play in attack.
The 25-year-old has played just 21 games in 3 years, but that hasn't stopped him from putting in the work to get his body right for the Dolphins in 2026.
His return strengthens the Dolphins' defensive resolve and adds professionalism to their forward rotation.
