A torn pec in the Johnathan Thurston-Cameron Smith Testimonial Match in February resulted in Kane Linnett missing the entire first half of his last season as a Cowboy.

Linnett returned from the injury in Round 13 and was rushed straight back into the NRL side by Cowboys head coach Paul Green for the match against Manly.

After starting from the interchange in his first two games of the season, the 29-year-old returned to the left centre spot he had made his own since arriving at the club in 2012.

Linnett was able to play two games alongside long-time left side running mate Antonio Winterstein before the winger retired in late July.

Linnett finishes his storied Cowboys career with 164 appearances, including the club's historic maiden premiership in 2015 as well as the 2017 grand final.

2018 stats:

Games: 12

Tackle breaks: 18

Average runs: 11

Average run metres: 101

Average tackles: 15