Ruckman Sam Draper to depart Essendon

Essendon ruckman Sam Draper will play for a new team next year after telling the Bombers on Tuesday morning that he will exercise his free agency rights to join another club.

Draper, who turns 27 this month, is choosing between Brisbane Lions and Adelaide, both of whom are preparing to play semi-finals this week. The Lions are considered the favourites to secure his signature, and are in great need for a ruck upgrade, whereas the Crows re-signed Reilly O’Brien.

Originally, the first pick in the rookie draft in 2016, Draper played 78 games for Essendon and developed a cult following for his physical playing style and mullet hairstyle.

The Bombers played him alongside Nick Bryan, and he demonstrated he could also have an impact as a forward before he suffered a season-ending Achilles injury.

“I want to take a moment to thank everyone who has been part of my journey at Essendon,” Draper said.

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“Pulling on the red and black has been such a huge honour, and I’ll always be grateful for the opportunity to represent such a proud club … the last few years haven’t been easy with all the injuries I’ve sustained. 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.”

More to come

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