Kulikefu Finefeuiaki's breakthrough 2026 season has earned him a place in Queensland's State of Origin side and a new Dolphins contract.
The 22-year-old has agreed to remain with the club until at least the end of 2029, extending his original deal by two seasons.
Finefeuiaki is preparing for the Dolphins' first NRL Preliminary Final after becoming an important contributor to their forward pack.
Since moving from North Queensland in 2025, he has added powerful carries, physical defence and considerable energy to the Dolphins' rise.
His performances this year secured his first Maroons jersey and marked his development into an 80-minute edge forward.
"What I think has been most impressive about Kuli's rise in the squad has been his transformation as a player," said Dolphins chief executive Terry Reader.
"His work to turn himself into an 80-minute player on the edge who now plays State of Origin has been extremely impressive.
"We see Kuli as one of the cornerstones of the pack and are excited about what he can do for this club not only in this Finals Series, but over the next few years."
Finefeuiaki debuted for the Cowboys in 2023 and made 37 appearances for North Queensland before joining the Dolphins.
He now has 80 NRL matches and two Tests for Tonga, continuing a representative career that began after his time at Ipswich High School.