The Brisbane Lions are delighted to confirm former Essendon ruckman Sam Draper has officially joined the Club.
The Brisbane Lions are delighted to confirm former Essendon ruckman Sam Draper has officially joined the Club.
Draper, who stands at an imposing 205 centimetres tall, arrives at Brighton Homes Arena as an unrestricted free agent via the Continental Tyres AFL Trade Period.
The 27-year-old played 78 games and kicked 43 goals for the Bombers after being selected with Pick 1 in the 2016 AFL Rookie Draft.
Brisbane Lions List Manager, Dom Ambrogio, said adding Draper to the squad was a big boost for the reigning premier.
“We are thrilled that a player of Sam’s calibre chose to join the Brisbane Lions for 2026 and beyond,” Ambrogio said.
“Sam is a very talented player who will strengthen our existing list, and he is also a great person who will add to our culture.
“As a Club, we are extremely proud of what we have built on and off the field and it’s a real credit to everyone involved that players wish to join the Brisbane Lions.”
Draper said he was equally excited to become a Brisbane Lion and was counting down the days to join the Club for preseason.
Following nine seasons with Essendon, the South Australian is set to make the move to Queensland by the end of October.
“I’m really excited to join the Brisbane Lions and to work under Fages (coach Chris Fagan),” Draper said.
“I’m looking forward to meeting my new teammates, earning their respect and getting to work.
“My focus is on improving every day, getting my body right, and making a positive impact wherever I can for this Club.”