Brisbane veteran Sam Thaiday has announced that the 2018 will be his last, after 16 seasons in the NRL.

Thaiday has played 294 first grade matches for the Broncos after making his debut in round 18, 2003, and currently sits behind only Corey Parker and Darren Lockyer on the all-time games list for the Broncos.

Thaiday's career highlights include the 2006 premiership, 29 Origin games for Queensland and 32 matches for Australia.

In keeping with the 33-year-old's way of doing things a little differently, Thaiday fronted the media from a retirement village, dressed as himself in 40 years time.

"I've always been a bit different in everything I've done - but I've always been true to myself and done things my way," Thaiday told broncos.com.au.

"So this is my way of being remembered.

"Because if you don't remember my incredible rugby league resume, how are you going to forget that footy player that announced his retirement dressed up as himself as an old man?

"I've been lucky enough to be a Bronco for 16 seasons, and played for my State and my country.

"I've seen the game change – from 12 to eight interchanges, from one to two referees, to the bunker, live streaming, and the effect of social media.

"I'm definitely one of the lucky ones who has turned a fun game I played as a kid into a job I love as an adult.

"But my time has come.

"Thank you all for the support throughout my career thus far, and of course for the rest of the season."

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