Former Queensland State of Origin winner Edrick Lee is headed back to his home state, having penned a two-year deal with the Dolphins from next year.
Lee, 29, recently returned to action for Newcastle after missing the entire 2021 NRL campaign with foot injuries, and will shift to the expansion side at season's end.
He scored a try in his only Origin appearance, crossing in the Queenslanders' series-clinching win in 2020, with Dolphins' head coach Wayne Bennett in charge of that side.
Dolphins chief executive Terry Reader said Lee's ability to battle back to first grade after a string of injuries showed an approach the new club would need.
"It is this type of attitude that gives us confidence he will be a major contributor for the Dolphins in 2023 and beyond," he said.
"We have seen Edrick's class at the highest level and are excited he will be part of the Dolphins' first ever team.
"The Dolphins are pleased to be able to bring another Queensland product back to their home state to be part of a historic time for the club."
Lee scored in Newcastle's 16-6 win against Canterbury on Friday night.
