Club legend James Tamou will return to North Queensland next season on a one-year contract that is likely to be his last as an NRL player.
Tamou, who turns 34 in December, had contemplated retiring as his two-year stint with the Wests Tigers ended in September but will now return to the club where he made his NRL debut.
The prop forward played his best football at the Cowboys between 2009 and 2016, earning State of Origin selection 14 times and featuring in the club's maiden premiership victory in 2015.
After leaving Townsville, he captained Penrith to their first grand final appearance in 17 years but could not spark the young Tigers playing group as he did the Panthers.
On his return to the Cowboys, Tamou joins a middle rotation that already features the likes of Reuben Cotter, Jason Taumalolo and Griffin Neame.
The Cowboys will hope his big-game experience can help them improve on their surprise preliminary-final finish this season.
"We are excited to be able to add a player of James's experience to our roster at this late stage, just prior to the commencement of our pre-season," Cowboys general manager of football Micheal Luck said.
"He will bring professionalism and a strong work ethic, while also adding significant depth to our forward pack.
"James will be a wonderful influence for our excellent group of young forwards."
Tamou joins Jack Gosiewski as new additions to the Cowboys' roster ahead of Todd Payten's third season at the helm.
