Dolphins Prop Tom Flegler Unveils ‘Last Resort’ Strategy as Uncertainty Looms Over NRL Comeback

Tom Flegler, a prop for the Dolphins, has shared insights regarding his prolonged injury absence, expressing optimism about his return to the field.

The front-row forward has not participated in any matches since the early stages of the 2024 season, following a shoulder injury he initially dismissed as a mere burner.

It was later confirmed that Flegler had sustained nerve damage, raising serious concerns about his NRL future over the past 12 months.

During an appearance on the Inside Ball Podcast with former Broncos coach Kevin Walters, the powerhouse discussed his recovery journey and the uncertainty surrounding his injury.

“I’m confident that I will make a comeback,” Flegler remarked.

“I could return next year or even later this year; at the moment, I’m taking it month by month. I will definitely be back, although it is concerning.”

“In the case of an ACL injury or shoulder reconstruction, you know it can take six to nine months, give or take a few weeks. Progress is generally visible throughout that recovery. However, with nerve damage, the improvement is slow and often too subtle to notice.”

“There are so many uncertainties… I simply can’t predict my exact return date.”

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It would be a significant blow to lose one of the game’s premier forwards at just 25 years old, making Flegler’s recent comments a welcome sight for fans.

As his return timeline remains uncertain, Flegler did share details about the “last resort” approach taken by doctors to ensure the State of Origin representative can regain his fitness.

“A nerve transplant is the last option available,” he said.

“Sometimes nerves can recover naturally, and we tried to go down that path, but unfortunately, there was no improvement, leading to the need for the transplant.”

“My strength is returning; it’s improving, albeit in very small increments.

“If you saw me training, you wouldn’t even realise I was injured. I’m hopeful to be back soon.”

Flegler was last seen in action during Brisbane’s 2023 grand final defeat to the Panthers, where he represented both the Kangaroos and Maroons.