BREAKING: Big Bombers free agent makes call on AFL future after three-club race

Sam Draper is set to join Brisbane in this year’s free agency period, having nominated the reigning premiers as his club of choice in 2026 and beyond.

Nine’s Tom Morris reported late on Monday night that the out-of-contracted 26-year-old has landed on the Lions as his new home, in the process turning down interest from his home state of Adelaide and club of nine years in Essendon.

It comes after Herald Sun’s Jay Clark and foxfooty.com.au revealed earlier this month that Draper would depart Tullamarine, and that Brisbane were “in the box seat” to recruit Draper.

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As an unrestricted free agent, the Bombers would receive compensation as part of any exit from Tullamarine.

As also revealed by foxfooty.com.au back in June, the Lions were understood to have offered Draper the most enticing deal of the trio to begin with, with at least five years understood to be on the table.

It comes a fortnight after West Coast co-captain Oscar Allen informed the Eagles of his desire to explore his options as a restricted free agent, which will almost certainty see him join the Lions.

Draper’s final game at Essendon came in Round 6 of this year against West Coast, where the 26-year-old unfortunately ruptured his Achilles.

At 205cm, the 78-gamer will be a major boost to the Lions, who have managed the ongoing restrictions with Oscar McInerney this season — playing just 11 of Brisbane’s 24 matches this season.

At 31 years of age, he and premiership player Darcy Fort (32) have entered the twilight stage of their career as the club’s two main rucks, and sheds light on how the Lions have come to be a great home for Draper.

Essendon only three weeks ago re-signed young ruck pairing Nick Bryan and Vigo Visentini on two-year deals until the end of 2027.