North Queensland Cowboys great Matt Scott has teared up as he announced his retirement from the NRL at season’s end.

The 263-game veteran announced his decision on Friday morning, declaring he had given all he could to the game in his 16-year career.

Scott helped the Cowboys to their first premiership in 2015, as well as representing Queensland in State of Origin nine times, winning eight series.

He made his NRL debut for North Queensland in 2004.

In an emotional press conference, Scott said he had decided the time was right to walk away.

Injuries have restricted Scott increasingly over the past three years and the Longreach product said his body could no longer take the toll of first-grade rugby league.

“I am still extremely passionate about this club and the game of rugby league, but 16 years of NRL has taken its toll on my body and it’s time to stop,” Scott said.

Cowboys director of football Peter Parr hailed Scott as the greatest forward in the club’s history.