Heighington, a Central Coast product, debuted for the Wests Tigers back in 2003.

He won two NRL grand finals and has played 334 games in stints with the Tigers, Cronulla and the Knights.

The 35-year-old has also played seven Tests for England and made appearances for the NRL All Stars, NSW Country and the Prime Minister's XIII.

"A lot of ex-players told me I would know when it's time, but I haven't felt that feeling yet, but I do know the pre-seasons are long and another year is a big ask," Heighington said.

"I want to go out on my terms. I'm still playing injury-free and I don't want to be greedy. I could try and continue to play but I risk picking up a bad injury or slipping in form, so I feel it's my time to move over and let one of the young boys come in."

The back-rower admits his top flight footy career has been surreal.

"Growing up you dream of playing one NRL game and I have somehow worked in and played in two grand finals, which I still cannot believe - it's beyond a dream," Heighington said.

"It has been a fun journey - I have played in some winning grand final teams which is a highlight of my career. In 2005 at the Wests Tigers, no one expected us to win it.

"We weren't one of the rich clubs, but we got on a bit of a roll and we delivered the Wests Tigers first premiership. It was the same for Cronulla. We weren't expected to win it but we went on a 16-game winning streak and won.

"When you start playing footy, you dream of playing in the NRL but to win a premiership is beyond a dream. I got to do that twice. It was pretty special and something I will remember for the rest of my life."