In one of the latest major moves of the 2024 AFL free agency period, Isaac Cumming has officially left Greater Western Sydney Giants (GWS) and signed with the Adelaide Crows. After seven seasons and 81 games with GWS, Cumming decided to seek new opportunities, opting for a fresh start with Adelaide. His decision comes after a challenging 2024 season, marred by injuries that limited him to just six games.
Cumming had a couple of suitors for his signature, most notably Port Adelaide and Adelaide Crows, but he ultimately chose the Crows. This move is seen as a strategic decision both for his career and Adelaide’s long-term aspirations. Cumming cited the chance to add experience and class to Adelaide’s half-back and wing positions as a key motivator for the move.
His decision came after his injury-plagued 2024 season, in which he faced both calf and hamstring issues. Despite these setbacks, his solid form from previous years, where he played 65 out of a possible 72 games between 2021-2023, made him an attractive target for clubs looking to strengthen their defensive line.
For Adelaide, securing Cumming is a major win. The Crows have been focusing on building a balanced team, and Cumming’s experience in defense, along with his versatility on the wing, adds significant depth to their lineup. His ability to rebound from defense and create offensive opportunities will be vital as the Crows continue their push to return to finals contention.
This acquisition fits well with Adelaide’s recent strategy of securing experienced players to complement their developing younger talent, positioning them as a more competitive force in the upcoming 2025 season.
The GWS Giants lose an important defensive player in Cumming, but as an unrestricted free agent, Adelaide did not have to trade any players or picks to secure him. Instead, the Giants will receive compensation from the AFL, which could come in the form of a draft pick. The loss of Cumming follows the Giants’ semi-final loss to Brisbane, marking the beginning of a potentially significant reshuffle for the club.
Looking ahead, Cumming’s role at Adelaide is expected to be pivotal in their quest for success in 2025. His defensive skills and ability to rebound from the backline will be crucial in transitioning play from defense to attack. For Cumming, this move represents a fresh start, and he will likely be eager to regain his best form after his injury setbacks in 2024.
Isaac Cumming’s move to the Adelaide Crows marks one of the key transactions in the 2024 AFL free agency period. It highlights the Crows’ intent to strengthen their squad for future success and gives Cumming a chance to restart his career in a new environment. As the 2025 season approaches, both Adelaide fans and Cumming himself will be keen to see what this partnership can achieve.
