The Dolphins in 2025 were pure chaos in the best way — the comp’s best attack, huge moments, and that “anyone can get it” confidence… but the defensive lapses and consistency swings kept them 9th and watching September from the couch.

In this episode of our 17-part 2026 mini-series, we break down why 2026 is the real “prove it” year — because the roster’s improved, expectations are up, and the draw is 4th-hardest. No freebies, just footy.

We get into:

    •    2025 snapshot: elite attack, but defence + discipline cost them finals

    •    The Round 23 blow-up that basically ended the push

    •    2026 gains: Cobbo, Schneider, Morgan Knowles — what it unlocks

    •    Hammer/Herbie strike, and the early-season reshuffle with Bostock out

    •    The 2026 draw, key stretches, and why start-fast matters

    •    Our ladder call: Dolphins finish 6th — first finals appearance

Cap or Fact: Dolphins finish 6th even with the draw from hell?

Dolphins fans — where’ve you got them finishing in 2026? 👇