LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The arrival of the Perth Bears at the start of the 2027 NRL season has raised concerns for several clubs regarding their off-contract players.
However, the Dolphins appear to be in a stable position.
According to reports from zerotackle.com, the Dolphins, who previously made significant player acquisitions for their inaugural season in 2024 under Wayne Bennett, have several players reaching the end of their contracts in 2026.
These players include Jake Averillo, Jamayne Isaako, Oryn Keeley, Connelly Lemuelu, Francis Molo, Kodi Nikorima, and Ray Stone.
Among them, centre Herbie Farnworth is viewed as the top priority for contract negotiations in the coming months.
All players, including Farnworth, will have the opportunity to negotiate with other clubs starting November 1, which includes potential interest from the Bears.
Farnworth has had an impressive season, recording nine try involvements in ten games, along with 62 tackle busts and averaging 165 metres per game, while maintaining an impressive 93% defensive success rate-making him one of the top centres in the league.
Despite the potential allure of a move to Perth, Farnworth has stated in an interview with The Sydney Morning Herald that his priority is to continue playing for the Dolphins.