George Williams' move from Super League has raised questions about the Dolphins' plans at halfback, with Isaiya Katoa not off contract this time.
The club reached the NRL finals for the first time in 2026 and will seek to build on that achievement next season.
But a major salary-cap squeeze is looming when the November 1, 2027 recruitment window opens for 2028.
Now approaching half a decade in the NRL, the competition's 17th club must balance its books while retaining key players.
Kristian Woolf's team has been one of the competition's most exciting attacking sides over the past two years, but needs greater defensive strength and consistency to contend for the premiership.
Jack Bostock, Herbie Farnworth and Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow are among the high-profile players off contract at the end of 2027.
Tabuai-Fidow is believed to have re-signed for $1.3 million or $1.4 million per season, despite reports of a pact to take less; Bostock and Farnworth are likely to leave.
Tom Flegler is also attracting interest from other clubs, although a decision on his future is not expected soon.
Even if those players depart, the cap will remain stretched, making affordable, consistent recruits-especially strong defenders-a priority.