Mega Thread Port Forum General AFL Thread Part 25

[WillemDaDrew]

Adelaide’s Ben Keays has been hit with a fine for ripping Collingwood big man Mason Cox’s $3000+ glasses off his head in Sunday’s spiteful clash at the MCG. The Crow was hit with a $1500 fine, but with an early guilty plea that fine is reduced to $1000.

Should have gone to Specsavers.

 

[gbear]

https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/afl-rich-100-who-are-the-highest-paid-players-in-football/news-story/3d7ddb5f52b827be7209a7ea03daf5a1

AFL Rich 100: Who are the highest paid players in football​

We breakdown the salaries for the top 100 players in the AFL

Legendary New York Yankees catcher and manager Yogi Berra once famously declared, “A nickel ain’t worth a dime anymore” when trying to make sense of the ever-changing value of money. He may have mangled the words, but not the meaning.

It’s worth remembering that catchphrase as the AFL and the AFL Players’ Association shadow box over what percentage of the pie the players will receive in the league’s next Collective Bargaining Agreement.
The fascination over what the 800-plus players who put on the show are paid has reached fever pitch in recent seasons.
Some player contracts are front or back-ended, most have a set of bonuses in-built; match payments can push the figures significantly up or down depending on performance, and some deals are structured to ward off potential rival poaching raids.
SCROLL DOWN TO READ THE FULL AFL RICH 100 AND HAVE YOUR SAY ON THE BEST AND WORST DEALS IN THE LEAGUE
The Sunday Herald Sun’s annual AFL Rich 100 – a comprehensive examination of the best-paid 100 players as well as those who narrowly missed out – tries to dispel some of the salary myths.

So these figures are based on what we expect players to earn without incentives attached.

That’s the reason for the Rich 100 List being presented in $100,000 bands, which reflects the fact that almost all of the players’ end-of-year salaries are dependent on performance bonuses.
......
The AFL Rich 100 attempts to put those salaries into perspective and provide context around the most talked-about and speculated deals in the game.

Spoiler: AFL Rich 100

1

DUSTIN MARTIN​

RICHMOND, 31

$1,250,000-$1,350,000​

Will he or won’t he see out the final year of one of the most significant contracts in AFL history? The issue of “Dusty” moving to another club might come back to money. He is scheduled to receive between $1,250,000 to $1,350,000 next year and, unless presented with a deal too good to refuse, the Tigers are unlikely to agree to pay any of that if he chooses to play elsewhere. Those close to him suggest he is happy and will stay in yellow and black.
What do you think of DUSTIN MARTIN's ranking?

2

NATHAN FYFE​

FREMANTLE, 31

$1,050,000-$1,150,000​

Fyfe is in the last year of his lengthy deal that puts him in the top handful of players based on salary. He has just brokered a new contract with a significant pay cut and while he’s been injury-prone in recent seasons this dual Brownlow medallist still has fuel left in the tank.
What do you think of NATHAN FYFE's ranking?

3

JEREMY McGOVERN​

WEST COAST, 31

$1,000,000-$1,100,000​

McGovern is in the last year of a five-season deal worth $6 million but has taken pay cuts in the past two years to help his club. He is still exceptionally well paid as a premiership star. He has just agreed to terms on a new two-year deal and is keen to be a one-club Eagle.
What do you think of JEREMY McGOVERN's ranking?

4

TIM KELLY​

WEST COAST, 28

$1,000,000-$1,100,000​

Kelly’s deal averages to about $850,000 a season but this is one of the years in which he is paid a higher proportion of his salary to help the Eagles’ cap position. He is having an excellent season and while, in hindsight, West Coast gave up too much for him he is holding up his end of the bargain.
What do you think of TIM KELLY's ranking?

5

MARCUS BONTEMPELLI​

WESTERN BULLDOGS, 27

$1,000,000-$1,100,000​

Bontempelli is likely to become just the second $1 million Bulldog in history following on from 2016 grand final hero Tom Boyd. The Bont’s contract expires in 2025, when he could be worth even more as he approaches his 30th birthday.
What do you think of MARCUS BONTEMPELLI's ranking?

6

CLAYTON OLIVER​

MELBOURNE, 25

$950,000-$1,050,000​

Oliver’s seven-year $7 million deal – signed in 2022 – starts next season. But it’s understood he is already a million-dollar Demon. The four-time best and fairest winner is on track to become one of the club’s most decorated players of the past 50 years.
What do you think of CLAYTON OLIVER's ranking?

7

CHRISTIAN PETRACCA​

MELBOURNE, 27

$950,000-$1,050,000​

Oliver’s sidekick is the other seven-figure Demon. With Oliver signed until 2030 and Petracca until 2029, the Demons have locked in the AFL’s best midfield for the decade.
What do you think of CHRISTIAN PETRACCA's ranking?

8

JEREMY CAMERON​

GEELONG, 30

$950,000-$1,050,000​

Made the right move to head home to Victoria as he helped Geelong to a premiership last year. Has looked like the league’s best player at times which makes his bumper salary worth every penny. Cameron has overcome his hamstring issues and has missed just one match in the past two seasons.
What do you think of JEREMY CAMERON's ranking?

9

TOM LYNCH​

RICHMOND, 30

$925,000-$1,025,000​

Lynch’s free agency delivered him to Punt Road Oval just in time for the 2019 and 2020 flags and his back-ended deal had him earning as little as $500,000 in each of his first few seasons. That pushed up to as much as $1 million last year and he is headed for a similar return in 2023, despite the fractured foot that has derailed his season. His contract runs until the end of 2025.
What do you think of TOM LYNCH's ranking?

10

DARCY MOORE​

COLLINGWOOD, 27

$925,000-$1,025,000​

The new Magpies skipper has helped shape the next evolution of Collingwood on and off the field. He holds the longest, most lucrative contract at Collingwood, having signed a multi-million dollar six-year-deal in April last year. Other clubs were prepared to pay him more, but he shunned free agency to recommit until the end of 2028. This is “Year One” of the new contract and it could tip over $1 million if his individual and team rewards come to fruition. All-Australian captain?
What do you think of DARCY MOORE's ranking?

11

PATRICK CRIPPS​

CARLTON, 28

$900,000-$1,000,000​

The reigning Brownlow medallist signed a monster six-year contract extension in mid-2021, which ties him to the Blues until the end of 2027. There has been much speculation about the financials, but it is believed to average at about $950,000 per season, with this year pushing towards the $1 million mark before dropping off at the back end.
What do you think of PATRICK CRIPPS's ranking?

12

STEPHEN CONIGLIO​

GWS GIANTS, 29

$850,000-$950,000​

Signed a seven-year deal worth about $7 million in 2019 when the Hawks came hard for him. Still has three more years to run on the whopper deal which is one of many to put huge pressure on the Giants’ salary cap. Averaging 29 disposals and should be in the mix to win his first club champion award.
What do you think of STEPHEN CONIGLIO's ranking?

13

TOBY GREENE​

GWS GIANTS, 29

$850,000-$950,000​

The Giants’ best player is probably the one who has genuinely deserved the big bucks. He extended his latest contract until the end of 2026. Has shown maturity in taking over as captain this season and has led the team superbly. Hard to see the skipper leaving.
What do you think of TOBY GREENE's ranking?

14

LACHIE WHITFIELD​

GWS GIANTS, 28

$850,000-$950,000​

Contracted until the end of 2027 but don’t be surprised if rivals come for the Sandringham product at season’s end. The 2012 No. 1 draft pick has played through some painful ankle injuries and remains one of the most silky-skilled players in the game. Always been on a big wicket.
What do you think of LACHIE WHITFIELD's ranking?

15

NICK HAYNES​

GWS GIANTS, 31

$850,000-$950,000​

The fattest part of his five-year contract kicks in this season and next, meaning Haynes will earn the best part of $1 million annually in 2023-24. While that seems like overs, it is a heavily back-ended deal which helped alleviate some pressure on the cap when he signed in 2019. Raised as trade bait last year, but no dice.
What do you think of NICK HAYNES's ranking?

16

JAMES SICILY​

HAWTHORN, 28

$850,000-$950,000​

The Hawks’ skipper inked a five-year contract last season as at least two rival clubs flagged their interest. Without much superstar power at the Hawks it wouldn’t surprise if a big portion of that cash came up front for the man charged with captaining a new leadership group during his club’s rebuild.
What do you think of JAMES SICILY's ranking?

17

ISAAC HEENEY​

SYDNEY, 27

$850,000-$950,000​

He might be a tease at times, but he’s certainly a talent. Heeney has overtaken Lance Franklin as this year’s richest Swan and while his form has been hot and cold he showed grit to win a head-to-head battle with Carlton skipper Patrick Cripps in round 11. This Newcastle kid is the posterboy for NSW talent academies and is making more dough than most NRL players.
What do you think of ISAAC HEENEY's ranking?

18

BRADLEY HILL​

ST KILDA, 29

$825,000-$925,000​

Hill is signed through to 2025 on a six-year deal that averages just short of $900,000 per season. While the Saints paid up for Hill, he is thriving under Ross Lyon. Hill has become a valuable role player if not the regular matchwinner his salary suggests he should be.
What do you think of BRADLEY HILL's ranking?

19

ADAM TRELOAR​

WESTERN BULLDOGS, 30

$825,000-$925,000​

The Dogs are paying roughly $600,000 of Treloar’s salary, with the remaining $250,000-$300,000 still being tipped in by Collingwood in what was a back-ended deal gone wrong. And for $600,000 – not to mention the paltry trade – Treloar has proven to be a bargain buy for his third AFL club, particularly when he replaced Bailey Smith in the centre square after Easter this year. He’s got two years to go at similar money.
What do you think of ADAM TRELOAR's ranking?

20

BRODIE GRUNDY​

MELBOURNE, 29

$800,000-$900,000​

Grundy’s salary of $900,000 – or perhaps even a touch more – in year one at Melbourne is costing Collingwood roughly $250,000, which is the contribution from his old club that errantly signed him to a monster deal. Grundy was pushed out of the Pies but it was nothing personal and he remains close with several of his old teammates. Can Grundy become this decade’s Luke Ball and win a premiership against the club that didn’t want him? In Ball’s case it was playing for the Pies in a grand final win against St Kilda.
What do you think of BRODIE GRUNDY's ranking?

21

LACHIE NEALE​

BRISBANE LIONS, 30

$800,000-$900,000​

The 2020 Brownlow medallist signed on for a further three years, tying him to the Lions until the end of 2026. It extinguished speculation about a possible move back to Western Australia as the prolific, hard-at-it midfielder looks to spearhead the Lions to a premiership. His 2023 numbers are down slightly, but the Lions spread the load in the engine room.
What do you think of LACHIE NEALE's ranking?

22

JOSH KELLY​

GWS GIANTS, 28

$800,000-$900,000​

Signed one of the biggest deals in the game when he agreed to an eight-year contract, keeping him at the club until 2029. His wage skyrockets into seven-figure territory in coming years as part of a deal which staved off North Melbourne’s fierce interest. The Roos may come again.
What do you think of JOSH KELLY's ranking?

23

TOUK MILLER​

GOLD COAST, 27

$800,000-$900,000​

Miller signed away his free agency rights in late 2021 for a five-year deal that kicked in this season. The deal is worth around $850,000 a season, which is this year’s wage. It peaks in the next two years then falls in the final two seasons.
What do you think of TOUK MILLER's ranking?

24

AARON NAUGHTON​

WESTERN BULLDOGS, 23

$800,000-$900,000​

The question for Bulldogs fans is does Naughton need to go back to go forward? The question for list boss Sam Power is how much does he pay the West Australian beyond 2024? Naughton is out of contract next year and is already on a huge whack, with West Coast certain to make a bold play for the fearless forward.
What do you think of AARON NAUGHTON's ranking?

25

DANE RAMPE​

SYDNEY, 33

$800,000-$900,000​

The Swans co-captain added one more season in 2022 to a three-year deal he signed in 2018. Rampe has been among the game’s most expensive defenders for some time, given the 2016 All-Australian’s importance to Sydney’s structure. The former Williamstown VFL star is one of the all-time great rookie finds.
What do you think of DANE RAMPE's ranking?

26

JACK STEELE​

ST KILDA, 27

$800,000-$900,000​

The inspirational captain signed a five-year extension in December 2021, fresh from his runaway win in the club’s best and fairest. He is determined to be part of a premiership era at St Kilda and showed that commitment by giving up his free agency rights to support the club’s direction.
What do you think of JACK STEELE's ranking?

27

ZACH MERRETT​

ESSENDON, 27

$775,000-$875,000​

The brilliant onballer is in career-best form after taking over as captain in 2023. Set himself a challenge to become the best defensive player at the club but Merrett’s supreme playmaking has been on show through the middle of the season. The Bombers were happy he signed on and rejected Port Adelaide’s interest.
What do you think of ZACH MERRETT's ranking?

28

JORDAN DE GOEY​

COLLINGWOOD, 27

$775,000-$875,000​

De Goey’s contract might have been a difficult birth, but it looks a savvy deal for the Magpies. The explosive mid-forward prioritised the pursuit of team success and familiarity over the extra $50,000 or more per season he could have secured from St Kilda last September. His deal runs until the end of 2027. In his current form, the Magpies looked to have secured a $1 million-type player for considerably less.
What do you think of JORDAN DE GOEY's ranking?

29

JACOB WEITERING​

CARLTON, 25

$750,000-$850,000​

The key-position defender was well on his way to winning the 2020 John Nicholls Medal when he inked a lucrative deal that year that locked him into Navy Blue until the end of 2025. He will earn around $800,000 this season, but that figure will rise in 2024 in the penultimate year of his contract.
What do you think of JACOB WEITERING's ranking?

30

SAM WALSH​

CARLTON, 22

$750,000-$850,000​

Walsh missed most of the pre-season with a serious back injury and it has taken him some time to settle his form. He can be a star if his disposal can be sharpened. He hasn’t been playing to the $825,000 figure he is believed to be on this season, but his output since his 2019 debut warranted the big deal that runs until the end of 2026.
What do you think of SAM WALSH's ranking?

31

MITCH McGOVERN​

CARLTON, 28

$750,000-$850,000​

This deal hasn’t quite worked out for the Blues, given McGovern’s injuries. He has yet to play more than 16 games in a season for Carlton, but that could change this year. At his best, he is good, but it doesn’t happen often enough, especially for a player whose average wage across the past five seasons has been around $800,000. Now out of contract, McGovern will consider his options. If he stays, it will be at a greatly reduced rate.
What do you think of MITCH McGOVERN's ranking?

32

BEN KING​

GOLD COAST, 22

$750,000-$850,000​

King is in the first season of a new two-year deal that hands him $800,000 annually after being paid $650,000 in 2022 as one of footy’s most richly rewarded fourth-year players. King’s salary is understood to be topped up by a healthy AFL ambassadorial fund.
What do you think of BEN KING's ranking?

33

OLLIE WINES​

PORT ADELAIDE, 28

$750,000-$850,000​

Wines’ new four-year deal through to 2026 kicks in this year. The Brownlow medallist is doing a fine job providing grunt while allowing the Powers' emerging mids to shine, having ignored several overtures across his career to return to Victoria.
What do you think of OLLIE WINES's ranking?

34

ANDREW GAFF​

WEST COAST, 31

$750,000-$850,000​

Gaff has one more season left on his left-field deal, which initially was a two-season contract and then a four-year deal he triggered in 2020 through to the end of 2024. He is due around $800,000 this season and while his productivity is down, the monster offers for him in Victoria did force the Eagles’ hand.
What do you think of ANDREW GAFF's ranking?

35

RORY LAIRD​

ADELAIDE, 29

$750,000-$850,000​

Laird is mid-way through a five-year extension that pays him about $800,000 a season as one of the game’s premier midfielders and a footy success story given his progression from the back pocket. Relentless and consistent, he will finish his career at the Crows.
What do you think of RORY LAIRD's ranking?

36

ANDREW BRAYSHAW​

FREMANTLE, 23

$750,000-$850,000​

Brayshaw signed a four-year deal in 2020 through to the end of 2025 and while he was overlooked for the captaincy behind Alex Pearce, this brilliant midfielder is firmly in the competition’s elite. Loyal, tough and team-focused, he is the full package.
What do you think of ANDREW BRAYSHAW's ranking?

37

MAX KING​

ST KILDA, 22

$725,000-$825,000​

King is in the first season of a new four-year deal at St Kilda that was signed back in 2021. The contract means he is on par with his brother, Ben, at Gold Coast – minus his brother’s ambassadorial component – and rewards his early-career progress and spectacular potential.
What do you think of MAX KING's ranking?

38

DYLAN SHIEL​

ESSENDON, 30

$750,000-$850,000​

Knocked back huge money from St Kilda to join Essendon and had one of the best pre-seasons of his career heading into 2023. Shiel has been frustrated by a calf issue but is still a reliable midfielder after struggling for form last year. Well paid over his career at two clubs.
What do you think of DYLAN SHIEL's ranking?

39

LUKE JACKSON​

FREMANTLE, 21

$725,000-$825,000​

Jackson is extremely well paid and so he should be as a 21-year-old star of the future who the Dockers secured on a long-term deal that runs to 2027, with a trigger clause for the 2028-29 seasons. The deal averages around $900,000 per season but starts at around $750,000 this year.
What do you think of LUKE JACKSON's ranking?

40

TIM ENGLISH​

WESTERN BULLDOGS, 25

$725,000-$825,000​

Will the Dogs offer English a long-term contract – say, six years at $1 million – ala Brodie Grundy at Collingwood? Or will they be spooked by what happened between Grundy and the Magpies? English qualifies for free agency next year and so if there’s any inkling of him wanting to return to Western Australia then it could be in the Dogs’ best interest to orchestrate a trade this year to maximise their compensation. That said, keeping English on the books would certainly aid their 2024 premiership tilt.
What do you think of TIM ENGLISH's ranking?
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41

JOE DANIHER​

BRISBANE LIONS, 29

$725,000-$825,000​

Has been one of the most maligned players at times but Daniher has elevated his game this season. Initially signed as a free agent on $800,000-plus a season but the original deal was smoothed out with a three-year extension which he signed in 2022. The Bombers received pick No. 8 as compensation.
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42

MAX GAWN​

MELBOURNE, 31

$700,000-$800,000​

The Demons skipper who gave the green light to “Operation Get Grundy” shored up his football future with a long-term contract that still has two full seasons to run (ends 2025). By the time the 2026 season starts Gawn will be 34 and it wouldn’t surprise if that is the ruckman’s last contract.
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43

HARRY HIMMELBERG​

GWS GIANTS, 27

$700,000-$800,000​

The key position swingman is already on decent coin as clubs queue up to poach him as one of this year’s leading free agents. Himmelberg has been in no hurry to ramp up talks, although Richmond is one club which has strong interest in him. He is close mates with new Tiger Jacob Hopper.
What do you think of HARRY HIMMELBERG's ranking?
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44

SAM TAYLOR​

GWS GIANTS, 24

$700,000-$800,000​

The gun defender is often described as underrated but he remains in the top bracket of earners at GWS for good reason. Taylor has already won an All-Australian blazer and regularly shuts down the league’s best forwards. A pay rise is expected in his next deal from 2026.
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45

HARRY McKAY​

CARLTON, 25

$700,000-$800,000​

Forget the talk about Carlton’s two Coleman medallists costing the Blues almost $2 million collectively this season. They aren’t … at least not until next year. McKay will earn around $750,000 this season in the last year of his current deal, with a more lucrative seven-year extension kicking in next season. It runs through until the end of 2030.
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46

ZAC WILLIAMS​

CARLTON, 28

$700,000-$800,000​

Zac Williams’ season was over before it began. He suffered an ACL injury on the club’s pre-season training camp to Queensland. He has played only 23 games in his three seasons with the Blues due to injury, which has robbed the club of his run off half-back. The deal – which runs until the end of 2026 – hasn’t worked so far, but it is nowhere near as high as has been speculated, particularly with only injury payments, not match payments, this season.
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47

TIM TARANTO​

RICHMOND, 25

$700,000-$800,000​

This bloke has been worth every cent the Tigers committed to pay him this season in a deal that runs through to the end of 2029. He copped some early criticism, but he is likely leading Richmond's best and fairest count. His return this year will likely be around $750,000, but incentives could push this figure up a little.
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48

JACOB HOPPER​

RICHMOND, 26

$700,000-$800,000​

Chose Richmond over Geelong late last season when he signed a similar deal – in length as well as financial components – to his good mate Tim Taranto. His deal also runs through to the end of the 2029 season. The Tigers believe he and Taranto will help drive the club in its quest for future success.
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49

ELLIOT YEO​

WEST COAST, 29

$700,000-$800,000​

Yeo is contracted through to at least 2024 on a deal of nearly $800,000, rich reward for his brilliant form in a three-year period which earned two best-and-fairests and two All-Australian blazers. While he has had a torrid run with injury the Eagles believe he can recapture his best footy next year.
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50

JACK DARLING​

WEST COAST, 30

$700,000-$800,000​

Darling inked a five-year deal in 2019 that expires in 2024 and while his past two seasons have been below par he was rewarded for his status as one of footy’s most consistent goalkickers. Darling hopes he can still be at the club when its finals window opens again.
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51

CHAD WINGARD​

HAWTHORN, 29

$700,000-$800,000​

The Hawks and Wingard have a decision to make at the end of 2023. Does he go the way of Jack Gunston, Jaeger O’Meara and Tom Mitchell and, like that trio, finish his career at a third AFL club – albeit under slightly different circumstances? Wingard has not played more than 17 games in a season as a Hawk and has not won a final since 2014.
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52

CALLUM MILLS​

SYDNEY, 26

$700,000-$800,000​

The co-captain recently took the keys to a $6.4 million estate in Duffys Forest in northern Sydney with his partner, Tiffany Browne. Not bad before your 26th birthday. But the best news is Mills’ salary is likely to spike significantly in 2024 when his next contract starts.
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53

TOM BARRASS​

WEST COAST, 27

$700,000-$800,000​

Barrass signed a five-year deal at the end of 2021, giving up his impending free agency rights for the following season. He is understood to be on $750,000 this year as one of footy’s best interceptors who is entering his peak years.
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54

OSCAR ALLEN​

WEST COAST, 24

$700,000-$800,000​

Allen is in the first season of a three-year deal that takes him through to free agency, and he was signed with good footy judges believing he could be the game’s best young forward. Allen has overcome an injury-plagued 2022 to return to his spot in the competition’s elite.
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55

JACK MACRAE​

WESTERN BULLDOGS, 28

$700,000-$800,000​

Might need to soon update Macrae’s position given he has been reprogrammed as a half-forward in 2023. A three-time All-Australian who consistently places in the Dogs’ best-and-fairest and was effectively drafted in exchange for Callan Ward when he joined the Giants. It’s been a mighty career for Macrae.
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56

IZAK RANKINE​

ADELAIDE, 23

$675,000-$775,000​

Rankine arrived at Adelaide with the Crows furious over reports they had offered him $850,000 per season. But rivals scoffed at suggestions they had secured him for vastly less. It's understood his deal is worth between $700,000-$750,000 and will not rise considerably in coming years in line with the new collective bargaining agreement. A good deal for both parties.
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57

JARROD WITTS​

GOLD COAST, 30

$675,000-$775,000​

Witts’ five-year deal expires at the end of next season, when he will hit free agency at 31 years of age. If anything, he has been underpaid given his value to the Suns as a captain and stalwart during a tough era for the club.
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58

CHARLIE CAMERON​

BRISBANE LIONS, 28

$675,000-$775,000​

Received a nice bump up on his last deal after he set the competition alight with his lightning speed and freakish goals,earning All-Australian honours in 2019. His juicy deal expires in 2025, when it’s expected Cameron’s paypacket will tail off and other emerging Lions will deserve bigger wages.
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59

HUGH McCLUGGAGE​

BRISBANE LIONS, 25

$650,000-$750,000​

Will become one of the most in-demand players in the game when the wingman hits free agency next year. The Victorian will have clubs lining up to pay him the best part of $1 million a year to head home. The Lions will be desperate to keep him. Has hit form after a slow start to the season.
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60

HARRIS ANDREWS​

BRISBANE LIONS, 26

$650,000-$750,000​

The Lions defender’s form was questioned last year but he has been superb in 2023 to be in All-Australian contention. Seen as a key leader at the Lions and chances of a poaching raid seem slim. One of Brisbane’s most important pieces.
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61

DARCY PARISH​

ESSENDON, 25

$650,000-$750,000​

Is looking for a pay rise to reach a salary in the vicinity of $800,000 a year to stay in red and black. The Bombers want to keep him but won’t pay overs, depending on what other offers come in for Parish. Has tried to be a more impactful player in the middle this year and has loved Brad Scott’s impact.
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62

CHARLIE CURNOW​

CARLTON, 26

$650,000-$750,000​

The power forward turned his back on free agency last August, locking in a lucrative six-year deal through to the end of 2029. He was on his way to a Coleman Medal at the time and despite Carlton’s frustrating first half of this season, he remains a chance to go back-to-back this year. The financials of his new deal won’t kick in until 2024. He is expected to earn in the low to mid $700,000s this year – which looks good shopping by the Blues – but it will rise significantly next year.
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63

JY SIMPKIN​

NORTH MELBOURNE, 25

$650,000-$750,000​

The Kangaroos’ co-captain would have been one of the key free agents on the market at the end of next season if he hadn’t proactively sought to take himself off the market. Simpkin recently signed a mega five-year deal until the end of 2029, despite still having a year and a half to run on his current contract. It was a massive vote of confidence in the club’s direction. His pay bracket will rise next year, commensurate with his status within the team.
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64

BAILEY DALE​

WESTERN BULLDOGS, 26

$650,000-$750,000​

There was a feeling Dale signed his five-year contract at the right time, given he was a reigning All-Australian who had jolted into one of the game’s most lethal half-backs. And did another Victorian club drive his price up with a long-term contract offer of their own?
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65

CALEB DANIEL​

WESTERN BULLDOGS, 26

$650,000-$750,000​

It is appropriate that Daniel sits next to Dale on this list because Daniel was taken at pick No.46 in 2014 and was All-Australian in 2020 while Dale was taken at pick No.45 in 2014 and was All-Australian in 2021. Daniel has evolved more into a midfielder in 2023, but his deft kicking has not been as effective.
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66

CONNOR ROZEE​

PORT ADELAIDE, 23

$650,000-$750,000​

Rozee is in the first season of a new two-year deal that rewarded him with about $700,000 in each year. His star is on the rise and that will make him one of football’s richest players in coming contracts as he builds his powers and profile.
What do you think of CONNOR ROZEE's ranking?

67

TOM McCARTIN​

SYDNEY, 23

$650,000-$750,000​

In 2022 McCartin emerged as one of the best tall backs in the game as he played alongside his brother, Paddy, in one of the feel-good stories of that year. The brothers also cashed in at the time, inking contracts during the Swans’ march to the grand final. Worrying concussions have hampered both players in 2023, but Tom is progressing and is contracted until 2027.
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68

JORDAN DAWSON​

ADELAIDE, 26

$650,000-$750,000​

Dawson has emerged as one of the competition’s elite after the Crows made good on a pledge to turn him into a bona fide midfielder. He signed a five-year deal worth more than $650,000 per season as the Crows gave up a first-round pick tied to Melbourne. It has proven a steal for the Crows.
What do you think of JORDAN DAWSON's ranking?
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69

MICHAEL WALTERS​

FREMANTLE, 32

$650,000-$750,000​

Walters is coming to the end of a two-season deal that pays him about $700,000 per year as a dynamic matchwinning forward. While he is no longer at his peak he has been a wonderful stalwart for the Dockers. He recently signed a new two-year deal.
What do you think of MICHAEL WALTERS's ranking?
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70

ROWAN MARSHALL​

ST KILDA, 27

$650,000-$750,000​

Marshall is in the first season of a five-year deal that gave him a much-deserved pay rise after he established himself as one of the league’s premier ruckmen. He is signed to 2027 and is a key pillar of the Saints’ quest for a premiership.
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71

LUKE PARKER​

SYDNEY, 30

$650,000-$750,000​

Long-time on-field inspiration is locked in for another two years as a heart-and-soul and brave onballer who the Swans hope can help transition the club’s next wave of midfielders.
What do you think of LUKE PARKER's ranking?
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72

LUKE RYAN​

FREMANTLE, 27

$650,000-$750,000​

Ryan signed a four-year extension in December 2022, with the 2020 All-Australian locked away until the end of 2027. Ryan deserves all that money given his consistency and spectacular right foot which sets up countless attacking thrusts.
What do you think of LUKE RYAN's ranking?
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73

CALEB SERONG​

FREMANTLE, 22

$650,000-$750,000​

Serong signed a four-year contract extension announced on Christmas Day 2022 which ties him to the Dockers until 2027. Along with Andrew Brayshaw, Serong represents the heart and soul of this year’s Dockers midfield.
What do you think of CALEB SERONG's ranking?
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74

SEAN DARCY​

FREMANTLE, 25

$650,000-$750,000​

Darcy signed a two-year deal in 2021 and is currently working on a long-term extension which would give away his 2024 free agency rights. While Darcy has often been linked back home to Victorian clubs, he has remained loyal to the Dockers and given stalwart service.
What do you think of SEAN DARCY's ranking?
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75

DION PRESTIA​

RICHMOND, 30

$625,000-$725,000​

Richmond warrior who has been an outstanding contributor since he joined the Tigers for the drought-breaking 2017 season. Has three premierships as his reward. He signed a new three-year deal in early 2021, worth around $700,000 per season, and he is still locked into the club for one more season. If his body holds up, he can play on for longer.
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76

JACK CRISP​

COLLINGWOOD, 29

$625,000-$725,000​

Back-to-back Copeland Trophy winner who turned his back on free agency last December to recommit to Collingwood until the end of 2026. Has provided exceptional value for money since he joined from the Brisbane Lions on a modest wage. Looks set to earn a little more next season. Crisp has proven to be one of the club’s most durable and dependable players.
What do you think of JACK CRISP's ranking?
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77

BRAYDEN MAYNARD​

COLLINGWOOD, 26

$625,000-$725,000​

Heart-and-soul Magpie who is consistently among the club’s most influential and inspirational players. This year marks the first season of a new deal that kicked in after he rejected free agency at the end of 2021, elevating him into the higher-end bracket of earners at the club. Worth every cent given the effort he puts in.
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78

JOSH DUNKLEY​

BRISBANE LIONS, 26

$625,000-$725,000​

Looks cheap on the surface for a hard-nut ball-winner who has made a considerable impact in the Brisbane engine room, especially as there was strong competition from Port Adelaide for the former Bulldog. Will play out his career up north after inking a six-year contract.
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79

KARL AMON​

HAWTHORN, 27

$625,000-$725,000​

You can bank on two things – Amon being on very, very close to $650,000 and Amon being in the top five of Hawthorn’s best-and-fairest halfway through his first season at Waverley. How good would Amon look in a Carlton jumper given his beautiful foot skills? The Blues grabbed Blake Acres for about $300,000 less per season last year and therein lies the quality difference compared to Amon.
What do you think of KARL AMON's ranking?

80

TOM STEWART​

GEELONG, 30

$625,000-$725,000​

Chris Scott has often branded Stewart the best defender in the game, which makes his pay packet look quite reasonable. Jeremy McGovern re-signed for seven figures at West Coast, but the Cats don’t dish out those sorts of wages easily. Wins games intercepting across half-back.
What do you think of TOM STEWART's ranking?

81

STEVEN MAY​

MELBOURNE, 31

$600,000-$700,000​

The mighty Melbourne full-back who played in the 2021 premiership with a badly torn hamstring has been the defensive rock of coach Simon Goodwin’s team. May’s battles with Lance Franklin have been must-watch and he still has two years on his contract to run. Slight form dip in 2023 but still a super stopper at that price.
What do you think of STEVEN MAY's ranking?

82

JAKE LEVER​

MELBOURNE, 27

$600,000-$700,000​

David King once potted the Demons for investing so much cash behind the ball in Lever and May, arguing that in soccer, strikers were more valuable for a reason. But the approximate $1.5 million the Demons invest annually in these two intercepting wizards is worth every cent.
What do you think of JAKE LEVER's ranking?

83

PATRICK DANGERFIELD​

GEELONG, 33

$600,000-$700,000​

His salary has been scaled down as part of his latest contract, which expires next season. Still one of the most impactful midfielders, although recent injuries have been frustrating. Could extend his career playing as a permanent forward in his final years. Delivered an enormous grand final last year.
What do you think of PATRICK DANGERFIELD's ranking?

84

DAVID SWALLOW​

GOLD COAST, 30

$600,000-$700,000​

The midfielder was due $1 million in each of 2023 and 2024 but selflessly agreed to spread that money out over three seasons. So he is due around $650,000 this season and a little more next year before the deal returns to 2023 levels.
What do you think of DAVID SWALLOW's ranking?

85

GRIFFIN LOGUE​

NORTH MELBOURNE, 25

$600,000-$700,000​

It hasn’t been an easy season to be a North Melbourne key defender and Logue has found it tough in his first year in a Kangaroos jumper. He hasn’t been the only one, but the fact he joined the club on a five-season deal averaging out at around $650,000 per year put a target on his back. An injury-hit pre-season didn’t help Logue. He is locked in until the end of 2027.
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86

ANGUS BRAYSHAW​

MELBOURNE, 27

$600,000-$700,000​

There was speculation Brayshaw could lob at Essendon or even Fremantle last year, but perhaps the jack-of-all-trades was simply never leaving. Brayshaw – who cut out the wrong ear holes in his helmet before the Port Adelaide game in round 10 – has carved out a cracking career since he joined as compensation for the Demons losing James Frawley to Hawthorn.
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87

TAYLOR ADAMS​

COLLINGWOOD, 29

$600,000-$700,000​

Has one more season to run on a five-year deal he penned in mid-2019. Tenacious Magpie who has endured a few challenging seasons with injury, but has relished a new forward-mid role this year. Is not getting as much of the ball as he did in the past, but is headed for a season-best goals tally.
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88

SHAI BOLTON​

RICHMOND, 24

$600,000-$700,000​

Richmond fans received an early Christmas present last December when explosive midfielder-forward Shai Bolton rejected rival overtures to commit to the Tigers until the end of 2028. It was a monster five-year contract extension that will see him push towards being a $1 million player when the deal kicks in next season. He is seen as one of the most important pieces in the Tigers’ jigsaw.
What do you think of SHAI BOLTON's ranking?

89

JACK VINEY​

MELBOURNE, 29

$600,000-$700,000​

Viney – who re-signed until the end of 2025 in 2020 – appears to be a cut-price superstar, given he has won the Frank “Checker” Hughes Award for best-afield on Anzac Day eve and the trophy for best-afield on King’s Birthday.
What do you think of JACK VINEY's ranking?

90

SCOTT LYCETT​

PORT ADELAIDE, 30

$600,000-$700,000​

The 30-year-old benefited hugely from his free-agency status in signing a deal that could rise to $700,000 this year if he hits certain contract clauses. Sure to again be in demand given his free agency.

91

JACK LUKOSIUS​

GOLD COAST, 22

$600,000-$700,000​

Lukosius has long been linked to a return to Adelaide but showed his loyalty to the Suns by signing a four-year deal which kicked in this season. This year his salary is believed to be just under $650,000 and he is finally rewarding the club’s faith with strong performances.
What do you think of JACK LUKOSIUS's ranking?

92

NICK VLAUSTIN​

RICHMOND, 29

$600,000-$700,000​

Has been an outstanding contributor for the Tigers and looks set to be so for a number of years to come. He signed a big deal in early 2021, turning his back on free agency and the interest of rival clubs, to ink a five-year contract that runs through until the end of 2026. Will be a steadying influence as the Tigers look likely to lose some veterans from next year.
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93

BRAD CROUCH​

ST KILDA, 29

$600,000-$700,000​

Crouch has been exactly as advertised after signing a five-year free agency contract worth around $650,000 per year to cross from Adelaide to the Saints. A tough inside mid who doesn’t flinch, he has rounded out the St Kilda midfield and is locked away to 2025.
What do you think of BRAD CROUCH's ranking?

94

JADE GRESHAM​

ST KILDA, 25

$600,000-$700,000​

Signed a four-year deal in 2019 that expires at the end of this season. He could choose to exercise his restricted free agency rights when the season is over with a handful of clubs, including Carlton, reportedly interested in the 25-year-old.
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95

RORY SLOANE​

ADELAIDE, 33

$600,000-$700,000​

Sloane is in the last season of a five-year deal and has turned back the clock after injuries, playing his usual style of strong-bodied football. The front-ended deal is coming to an end but there is no reason Sloane won’t play on.
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96

ADAM SAAD​

CARLTON, 28

$575,000-$675,000​

The hard-running, creative Blues half-back still has two more seasons left on the deal that stretches out to about $650,000 per season. He has justified the output since he crossed from Essendon and knocked back more money to lock in long-term with the Blues. Saad has mostly held up his end of the bargain.
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97

REILLY O’BRIEN​

ADELAIDE, 27

$575,000-$675,000​

O’Brien capitalised on his good form and best-and-fairest win in 2020 to sign a four-year deal through to the end of 2025. While he has had some tougher moments he is back on top as Adelaide marches up the ladder.
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98

DAN McSTAY​

COLLINGWOOD, 27

$550,000- $650,000​

Signed a five-year deal on about $600,000 per season to become the No. 1 banana in the Magpies’ forward line. The club has loved his workrate despite a nasty finger injury which sidelined him since round 5. Clearly worth the investment and jumped into the ruck when injuries hit.
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99

JACK SINCLAIR​

ST KILDA, 28

$550,000-$650,000​

Sinclair signed a new deal in mid-2021 for three more seasons amid spectacular form when he finished second in the club’s best-and-fairest. He has gone to a higher level since as a defender who can cause havoc with his late-game cameos in the midfield. Incredible value at this price.
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100

LANCE FRANKLIN​

SYDNEY, 36

$550,000-$650,000​

The argy bargy over Franklin’s deal last year was eventually sorted – and it’s understood the impasse wasn’t over a huge amount of money. It’s likely that Sydney bumped its offer of roughly $550,000 to around $600,000 or a little more and Franklin said: “Yep, let’s go. One more.” From No. 1 on the 2021 Rich List in 2021 to No. 100 in 2023.
What do you think of LANCE FRANKLIN's ranking?

Range is 1st Dustin Martin $1.25m to $1.35m and 100th Buddy Franklin $550k to $650k.

We are either cheap, or like Geelong have worked out a lot of "independent" ASA's outside the cap if this list is very accurate. Our 3 players in the list are;

33

OLLIE WINES​

PORT ADELAIDE, 28

$750,000-$850,000​

Wines’ new four-year deal through to 2026 kicks in this year. The Brownlow medallist is doing a fine job providing grunt while allowing the Powers' emerging mids to shine, having ignored several overtures across his career to return to Victoria.
What do you think of OLLIE WINES's ranking?

66

CONNOR ROZEE​

PORT ADELAIDE, 23

$650,000-$750,000​

Rozee is in the first season of a new two-year deal that rewarded him with about $700,000 in each year. His star is on the rise and that will make him one of football’s richest players in coming contracts as he builds his powers and profile.
What do you think of CONNOR ROZEE's ranking?

90

SCOTT LYCETT​

PORT ADELAIDE, 30

$600,000-$700,000​

The 30-year-old benefited hugely from his free-agency status in signing a deal that could rise to $700,000 this year if he hits certain contract clauses. Sure to again be in demand given his free agency.
What do you think of SCOTT LYCETT's ranking?

Club	Players
Melbourne	8
Carlton	8
GWS	7
WC	7
Richmond	7
WB	7
Fremantle	7
St Kilda	7
Sydney	6
Brisbane	6
Collingwood	6
GC	5
Adelaide	5
Essendon	3
Geelong	3
Hawthorn	3
Port	3
NM	2
Total	​ 100​

Clearly see that WC are overpaying their current players

 

[RussellEbertHandball]

Clearly see that WC are overpaying their current players

Trying to squeeze one more premiership out of their stars 3 or 4 years ago.

 

[sobrave]

Watching the replay of the Collingwood Adelaide game. Adelaide should have won this.

Collingwood aren't that good. The footy they played in rd2 was absolutely unbelievable. But can they produce that again? We hopefully won't be that shit again.

 

[Capital Power]

I won't post the AFL apology again but isn't the reason we have four field umpires is that the umpires being unsighted doesn't happen?

 

[PowerBaz]

Crow throw!

I picked that up at 100% speed - live, commentators said nothing.

 

[240volt]

Can someone post confirmation that Dawson should have received a free kick.

Seven news flash Dawson free kick should have been given.
More to come on our late news.

 

[manureid]

Seven news flash Dawson free kick should have been given.
More to come on our late news.

Pretty shocked by this information.

 

[Fizzler]

I hope this meme continues on for years like Roller, Dulmial Gun, and hopefully Easter Anal as well

 

[JimmyBC]

Watching the replay of the Collingwood Adelaide game. Adelaide should have won this.

Collingwood aren't that good. The footy they played in rd2 was absolutely unbelievable. But can they produce that again? We hopefully won't be that s**t again.

They match up well on Collingwood there's been few close games recently.

I'm not sure how much you read into it tbh aside from Adelaide play a good brand when they are on & can push anyone.

 

[Lawnchair Larry]

Apparently:
Matt Rendell: Big heart attack while exercising and now in very serious condition.

 

[Registered User]

Apparently:
Matt Rendell: Big heart attack while exercising and now in very serious condition.

Former AFL champion fighting for life after heart attack

The 64-year-old collapsed while walking his dog.

7news.com.au

 

[sobrave]

Daicos is no butters

 

[sobrave]

They match up well on Collingwood there's been few close games recently.

I'm not sure how much you read into it tbh aside from Adelaide play a good brand when they are on & can push anyone.

Our best is better than Collingwood I reckon (Rd 2 aside.. that was ridiculous)

 

[Portmagpies36]

Everyone saying croms would get pasted against Collingwood, Everyone saying croms have a bad midfield, yet they almost beat Collingwood at the MCG. I think people need to start taking them seriously, especially if they sneak into finals.

They have had 4 narrow losses by a few points, if they had won those they would be almost top 4.

Let that sink in

__________________________________
F@&k the Crows! s**t team, no history.

If buts and candynuts, the fact is they are 7 and 7 and in 8th place, good teams win the close games.

 

[Flash of power]

yep just finish top 2 is all you need to do

There is something psychological about finishing top though

 

[cosmicwinduptoy]

Our best is better than Collingwood I reckon (Rd 2 aside.. that was ridiculous)

If form lines continue I'm convinced Port will utterly destroy them in a final.

Collingwood genuinely look like losing half the times I watch them play. They are down at three quarter time frequently.

We've won a lot of close ones also, but have generally always looked in control and in the lead.

Baffles me that they are considered favorites, but I'm not mad about it.

 

[gbear]

There is something psychological about finishing top though

It didn’t help in the early 2000’s or 2020

 

[cosmicwinduptoy]

Our best is better than Collingwood I reckon (Rd 2 aside.. that was ridiculous)

Would be interested in all the team changes since that last match up.

Off the top of my head:

Hinkley to the bench

Butters full time mid

Bergman and Williams into the backline

DBJ to the forward line.

Finlayson into the forward line.

Clurey, Jonas, Burgoyne dropped.

What else?

 

[Alberton Proud]

AFL has conceded Jordan Dawson should have been paid a free kick in the final 10 secs of yesterdays game. Umpire boss Dan Richardson says “the umps had a restricted view of the contest.

Wonder how many ‘favours’ Roo had to call in to get that statement

 

[sobrave]

There is something psychological about finishing top though

There's not though.
We finished top in 2020 and didn't make the grand final
Finishes top 3 times in a row in the early 2000s and only converted once, not even making the gf the other times.

We're the kings of finishing top and not going on with it. If anything were better off second

 

[sobrave]

Would be interested in all the team changes since that last match up.

Off the top of my head:

Hinkley to the bench

Butters full time mid

Bergman and Williams into the backline

DBJ to the forward line.

Finlayson into the forward line.

Clurey, Jonas, Burgoyne dropped.

What else?

Carr head coach

 

[PeacefulWarrior]

I wonder why teams don’t put a hard tag on Dawson he’s literally their only half decent mid

 

[sobrave]

I wonder why teams don’t put a hard tag on Dawson he’s literally their only half decent mid

Laird is not as damaging but if you don't put someone on him he'll rack up 40 easily.

 

[Schulzenfest]

Laird is not as damaging but if you don't put someone on him he'll rack up 40 easily.

Laird has racked up 40 in enough massive Crows losses to show how meaningless this is. About as damaging as 40 disposals from Matt Crouch.