Jason Taumalolo's 2026 campaign offered the Cowboys a strong reason to consider keeping him beyond his current deal.
He played 24 of North Queensland's 25 matches, averaged more than 150 metres per game and defended strongly.
The Cowboys are open to extending his stay beyond 2027 if he remains fit and wants to continue playing.
His decade-long contract is nearing its end, and rival clubs can approach him from November 1.
Taumalolo, who debuted for North Queensland in 2010, is believed to want to finish his career as a one-club player.
He has made 309 appearances, including 161 wins, and was part of the 2015 premiership team.
Across his career, he has run for more than 47,000 metres and made over 7,000 tackles.
Injuries affected earlier seasons, but not in 2026; the heavy minutes he has carried in the middle remain a concern for his durability.
The ageing forward pack may also change, with Coen Hess potentially retiring at the end of next year.
North Queensland has re-signed Kaiden Lahrs, prioritising him over Matthew Lodge, who left for the English Super League, while developing younger talent.