Signings tracker: Attacking machine signs new deal with the Dolphins
The man who gave the Dolphins their first lead in the NRL has signed a new deal to remain at the club.
One of the Dolphins’ foundation signings has extended his stay at the club, with reliable edge forward Connelly Lemuelu locked in until the end of the 2027 season.
Lemuelu left the Cowboys after three seasons and played a significant role in the Dolphins’ first match in 2023 when he came off the bench against the Roosters and scored a 46th minute try that gave them their first lead in the NRL.
The 27-year-old has played 61 matches in three seasons for the club, with Lemuelu establishing himself as a potent attacking weapon on the edge whether he’s started or come off the bench.
The one-time Samoan Test representative scored a career-high nine tries last season and is part of one of the most well-rounded forward packs in the competition.
Tom Gilbert, Tom Flegler and Max Plath are all set to return from injury next year, while the Dolphins have also signed Englishman Morgan Knowles to join a pack that will lose Oryn Keeley to the Storm in 2027.
“Connelly’s performances have improved every year and that is just one of the reasons we were so keen to extend his contract,” Dolphins chief executive Terry Reader said.
“He is a dangerous player on the edge for us and with 85 NRL matches to his name now, we believe his best football is just ahead of him.
“We are excited about what Connelly can continue to add to our pack this upcoming season, and with so many of our injured forwards returning, members and fans have real reasons to be excited about our 2026 NRL campaign.”
