News 2023 sam walker linked with dolphins move darren lockyer wally lewis exclusive 20230506 p5j4w0.html – Breaking News & Latest Updates 2026
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EXCLUSIVE: Legends back Sam Walker Dolphins move after Roosters axing

Chris De Silva

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Queensland greats Wally Lewis and Darren Lockyer have both touted the Dolphins as a team where Sam Walker could resuscitate his career after being dropped to the reserves.

After bursting onto the scene as a genuine blue-chip prospect for the Roosters two seasons ago, Walker has now suddenly found himself playing NSW Cup.

The Dolphins are flush with salary cap space after being unable to lure the likes of Cameron Munster, Kalyn Ponga or Jack Wighton to the club, and could splash the cash on the 20-year-old Walker instead.

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Lewis said it would come down to whether Dolphins coach Wayne Bennett is a fan of the young halfback.

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"There's probably only one guy that's going to answer that question. If he's got interest I would have no doubt whatsoever that he'd (Walker) end up there," he told Wide World of Sports' QLDER.

"There's been a little bit of a family interest, a family mix, taking place there where they all experience each other's company and I think it'd be quite a good move dependent on what the coach has got in mind.

"It depends on how long he is where he is now," Lockyer added.

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"Maybe he might get a bit antsy or jumpy with being in that position.

"The Dolphins have got money, they were unable to land Munster and Wighton. Sean O'Sullivan has done a good job but we know Sam's a quality player.

BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 23: Coach Wayne Bennett of the Dolphins gives a smile at a post match press conference after the round eight NRL match between the Dolphins and Gold Coast Titans at Suncorp Stadium on April 23, 2023 in Brisbane, Australia. (Photo by Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images)

Lockyer and Lewis believe that Walker could end up at the Dolphins if Wayne Bennett wants the move Bradley Kanaris via Getty Images

"I've got no doubt that the master coach would be having a think about it."

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Lockyer added Walker should not be disheartened by being dropped to the reserves, speaking from his own experiences early on in his illustrious career.

"He's a quality player and he's a talent," he said.

"You'd have to look back in history and there'd be hundreds of players who have played for their state and their country that spent time in reserve grade.

"I went back to reserve grade and played probably six or seven games there.

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"It's just a part of your journey, and he's a kid still. He's 20, he started as a teenager and he's just plateaued out a bit.

"It's just a part of the process. You go back and work hard and the opportunity will come again.

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"It's just learning and understanding that setbacks are going to happen and you've just got to make the most of the opportunity that's in front of you."

Walker signed a two-year extension with the Roosters at the end of last year that will see him tied to the club through the 2025 season.

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