The Dolphins were the NRL's best attacking team in 2025, and enter 2026 looking to play finals for the first time.

Now three years into their journey as the NRL's 17th side, the Dolphins have narrowly missed the top eight in each of the last two campaigns, but certainly have all the tools to go a step further than they have to date.

But the Dolphins face numerous big selection calls heading into 2026.

An enormous injury ward over the last 12 months will do that. Youngsters have broken out and others need to make their returns.

Add all that to a couple of key off-season recruits, including Selwyn Cobbo from the Broncos and English forward Morgan Knowles from St Helens, and it's not difficult to understand where the headaches are about to be.

Here are the key Dolphins' selection questions heading into 2026.

Where does Selwyn Cobbo fit in?

One of the more intriguing off-season signings is that of Selwyn Cobbo, who makes the trip north from the Brisbane Broncos.

There is no doubt he needed a fresh start given his form at the Broncos, but there is also no doubt around the potential he possesses. Cobbo has it in spades. That is evident by his previous State of Origin performances, which came on the back of consistent club performances.

While there is next to no chance of Cobbo playing fullback at the Dolphins, he proved at the Broncos that he can play on the wing or in the centres.

If Tabuai-Fidow doesn't play at the back, then he will be one centre, with Herbie Farnworth the other. That is non-negotiable.

It leaves Cobbo fighting for a wing spot - and there is likely only one vacant with goal kicker Jamayne Isaako to start.

Jack Bostock starts the year on the sidelines as he recovers from an ACL injury, which might be the way for Cobbo into the side. Exactly where he fits as the season goes on remains to be seen.

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