Dolphins in 2025: Two Studs, avoid the rest!
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The Dolphins have surprised many in the NRL this year, but for Fantasy coaches — there’s real value if you look in the right places. While much of their forward pack brings question marks, there are a few shining stars in this pod of prospects.
The Dolphins have byes in Round 13 (minor bye round) and Round 18 (major bye round), meaning they're gold, covering the challenging rounds 12 & 15 major bye rounds!
Herbie Farnworth – $753K | CTR
Let’s start with the undisputed king of fantasy centres — Herbie Farnworth.
This bloke just gets better every year:
- 2022: 40 avg
- 2023: 47 avg
- 2024: 55 avg
- 2025: 59 avg and counting
Farnworth has gone from decent to elite, and now stands as the GOAT among pure centres — and it’s not particularly close. What’s more, he absolutely torched the Warriors in 2024 with scores of 94 and 99, and yep, he faces them again in Round 11.
He’s expensive at $753k (priced at a 56 average), but based on form, he’s worth every cent. No Origin duties makes him even more appealing through the major bye rounds.
Verdict: Big price, but bigger ceiling. Buy with confidence.
Isaiya Katoa – $708K | HLF
Another breakout story — Katoa has gone up several levels.
- 2023 debut season: 30 avg
- 2024: 43 avg
- 2025: 56.5 avg
But it’s how he’s scoring that should get your attention.
Katoa’s base stats are elite:
- 110m run metres per game
- 445m kicked per game
- 24 tackles per game
- Just 3.3 missed tackles
And here’s the scary part — he’s doing this without big attacking numbers. In Round 10, he posted 70 points with zero attacking stats. If he adds just one try assist or line break, we’re talking 80s.
Verdict: Reliable, base-heavy, and still has upside. Strong hold, solid buy.
Jeremy Marshall-King – $620K | HOK
He’s one of the few hookers who can consistently go 50+, but unfortunately, he’s on the shelf. Between injury and inconsistency, this isn’t the year to roll the dice.
Verdict: Avoid for now.
Jamayne Isaako – $456K | WFB
A former Fantasy star now priced at a bargain. Isaako has only crossed for tries in 3 of 10 games this season — but if that turns around, he could spike in value. He’s also goal-kicking, which adds a floor.
The issue? He’s wildly inconsistent and not getting involved enough in tough matchups.
Verdict: POD territory. Only consider if you’re desperate and chasing upside.
Max Plath – $650K | MID/HOK
One for the watchlist.
Plath has proven he can score well in big minutes and boasts that juicy dual position MID/HOK combo. He’s out post-surgery right now but expected back around Round 16 — perfect timing for those needing a hooker in Round 15, when the position is thin.
Verdict: Not one to act on now, but keep an eye. Very fantasy relevant when healthy.
The Mirage of the Dolphins Pack
Several other Dolphins look appealing on paper, but dig a little deeper and the shine fades:
- Finefeuiaki can’t quite make the leap.
- Gilbert is an Origin risk.
- Daniel Saifiti found form but was struck down by injury.
- Lemuelu doesn’t get consistent minutes.
- Francis Molo is now in the rotation, soaking up minutes.
Verdict: The pack is a trap. Look elsewhere.
Final Word: The Surface is Rough, But There’s Gold Below
While the Dolphins forward rotation is murky, Herbie and Katoa are leading a new wave of fantasy relevance for Redcliffe. Herbie is elite, Katoa is rising fast, and Plath might be your mid-season secret weapon.
Keep your eyes peeled — the Dolphins might just carry you through the byes.