Melbourne captain Cameron Smith took a lap of honour and was chaired off Suncorp Stadium following the Storm's 30-10 win over Canberra on Friday, sending a relatively clear message surrounding his playing future.
Melbourne players formed a guard of honour for their leader shortly after Smith walled around the outskirts of the field thanking fans.
While it seemed to be a clear indication that the 429-game veteran was strongly considering retirement, Smith refused to confirm any decision had been made.
โI canโt tell you, I donโt know (if I will retire)," he said post match.
"All I have worried about this year is trying to play well, and enjoy watching these young fellas grow as footballers and grow as men.
"Iโve been very fortunate in my career to be involved in some really big games with the Storm, and lucky enough to win some premierships along the way.
"Thereโs a lot of guys starting out their careers who havenโt had that opportunity yet so Iโm enjoying their success at the moment and sharing in their journey.
โI havenโt thought past that."
Former premiership teammate Cooper Cronk believes Smith has made his mind up about his future.
โI think Cameron knows heโs been going to retire for a long period of time,โ Cronk said on Fox League.
โI think everyone in the team knows, I think they are keeping it in house. I daresay Cameron Smith is retiring.โ
Incoming Brisbane coach Kevin Walters agreed with Cronk.
โHe was substituted in the 75th minute on the other side of the ground and received a standing ovation from everyone saying 'goodbye Cameron'", Walters said.
โKnowing Cameron he wouldnโt want to make next week about him and what he will do.โ
FFS Cam just retire, this is getting tedious.