Barnstorming Manly backrower Haumole Olakau'atu is set to miss at least a month after dislocating his shoulder in the side's round 15 loss to the Titans.
The club on Monday confirmed the four-to-six week prognosis for the 26-year-old, who was also in the mix for Blues selection.
Manly currently sit in 11th spot, with a 6-8 record, having been well beaten by Gold Coast last Friday.
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Olakau'atu's injury news will offer no relief to coach Anthony Seibold, who will be desperately hoping to turn things around in the final months of the regular season.
The Sea Eagles have the bye in round 16 before they host Wests Tigers the following week.
In a rare boost during the Origin period, the Manly look set to have Tom Trbojevic, Daly Cherry-Evans and Jake Trbojevic available and Seibold will be hoping his senior men can kickstart a run to the finals.
Having missed the round 15 clash due to concussion, breakout back Lehi Hopoate is expected to return to action to face the Tigers, while Ethan Bullemor may be moved from prop to cover for Olakau'atu.
Alternatively, Corey Waddell could be shifted into the starting 13, while Michael Chee Kam offers another depth option with plenty of NRL experience.