Warren Smith will not return to calling football until the 2027 pre-season, after a setback extended his absence through the 2026 season.
He had hoped earlier this year to return before the season ended, following a diagnosis of pre-cancerous lesions in his voice box.
Speaking to News Corp last week, Smith said he had undergone six surgeries in nine months.
"It was discovered that the carcinoma had returned after the first three of those surgeries, so I underwent more laser surgery in April this year," he said.
He later had two operations to improve his vocal-cord function, including a stent placed in his larynx for three weeks in August.
Smith described that period as the most uncomfortable part of the process.
One month after the stent was removed, he said his voice was better than at any point since the 2025 NRL season.
He said the signs were very positive for a return in the 2027 pre-season.
Fans welcomed the improvement but were disappointed he would miss calling Sunday's grand final.
One social media user wrote: "One of the greatest to ever do it and very humble bloke. Been missed this season."