Star ruckman Sam Draper cites injury woes for quitting Essendon to join Brisbane Lions
Ruckman Sam Draper has cited a troubled injury stretch at Essendon as among his reasons for leaving the AFL club.
Draper has officially quit the Bombers and is tipped to join reigning premiers Brisbane.
But Adelaide is also bidding for the South Australian, who hasn’t told Essendon of his future club of choice.
Sign up to The Nightly's newsletters.
Get the first look at the digital newspaper, curated daily stories and breaking headlines delivered to your inbox.
By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.The 26-year-old played just five games this season because of an Achilles injury.
Draper was among a raft of Bombers players who suffered injuries this season, resulting in the club sacking its fitness boss Sean Murphy in July.
“Personally, the last few years haven’t been easy with all the injuries I’ve sustained,” Draper said in a statement on Monday issued by Essendon.
“This has taken a toll on me both mentally and physically.
“And I’ve had to make a very hard decision for what’s best for me moving forward and I feel it’s the right time for a fresh start.”
Draper departs as a free agent after spending nine years on Essendon’s list.
The Bombers tabled a “strong long-term deal” to keep Draper, the club’s general manager of AFL, Daniel McPherson, said.
“Sam has been an important part of our club in recent years and we were looking for that to continue into the future,” he said in a statement.
“Following open, honest and regular dialogue with Sam throughout the course of the year, we are disappointed that he will not be a part of our future.
“Sam’s departure is obviously significant but we remain confident in our multiple ruck options.”
While Draper’s exit had been long rumoured, other senior Bombers are also reportedly weighing their futures at the club.
Captain and five-time club champion Zach Merrett and defender Jordan Ridley are considering offers from rival clubs.
Both remain contracted at Essendon - Merrett for another two seasons and Ridley until the end of 2029.
Meanwhile, free agent Jacob Wehr has officially nominated Port Adelaide as his destination after walking out on GWS.
“Jacob is an outstanding person who we believe will add valuable depth to our list and complement our existing midfield group,” Port’s list manager Justin Cripps said in a statement on Tuesday.
