Dolphins forward Ray Stone has confirmed he will retire from the NRL at the end of the 2026 season, bringing an end to a career that has been defined by toughness and a battle against persistent injuries.

The 29-year-old has played more than 100 NRL games since making his debut with the Parramatta Eels in 2018, before becoming a key part of the Dolphins' inaugural squad.

Stone was the second-ever player signed by the expansion club ahead of their entry into the competition in 2023, helping establish the foundations of the Dolphins' playing group.

Eels journeyman tells all following extension
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 11: Ray Stone runs during a Parramatta Eels NRL training session at Old Saleyards Reserve on March 11, 2019, in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Matt King/Getty Images)

However, a series of significant injuries have taken their toll on the forward, with Stone ultimately deciding to call time on his career at the conclusion of the season.

He suffered an ACL injury towards the back end of 2022 before enduring AC joint injuries throughout last season.

Dolphins coach Kristian Woolf made special mention of Stone's toughness at last year's presentation, highlighting the veteran's willingness to battle through games despite his shoulder injury.

Stone has also dealt with a neck injury this season, only returning to the field last week in the Dolphins' win over Manly.

His final season will see him remain part of a significant moment in the club's short history, with the Dolphins having secured their first finals appearance since entering the NRL in 2023.

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Dolphins chief executive Terry Reader paid tribute to Stone's contribution to the club and his standing among the fanbase.

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WAGGA WAGGA, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 29: Ray Stone of the Dolphins in action during the round nine NRL match between the Canberra Raiders and Dolphins at McDonald's Park on April 29, 2023 in Wagga Wagga, Australia. (Photo by Mark Nolan/Getty Images)

"There is no doubt that Ray has come to our club and entrenched himself as a real hard man and one of our fans' favourite players," said Dolphins' chief executive Terry Reader.

"He will forever hold a place in our history as the second NRL player signed by the club, and he has returned that favour by playing every game in a tough and uncompromising manner.

"We will always be thankful to Ray for the effort he has put in for the Dolphins and wish him and his young family all the best for the future."

Stone will now look to finish his career on a high, with the Dolphins set to make their first appearance in the NRL finals since joining the competition.