Brisbane have re-signed breakout defender Jack Payne to a long-term deal, with the Lions backman now penned to the Queensland club until the end of the 2029 season.
The five-year extension comes amid a career-best season for the Lions Academy graduate, who has emerged as a key asset in Brisbane's push for a premiership in 2023.
Payne had played 27 games at AFL level across his three prior seasons and has missed just the match so far this year to feature under Chris Fagan 18 times as a formidable lockdown defender.
The 23-year-old was a key contributor in the Lions' finals action last year and has since transitioned that form into his fourth campaign with the club, who have now shown their faith in the former Pick 54 selection.
Speaking via the club's announcement on Thursday morning, Payne - who was already signed for next season - said he was delighted to have his long-term future secured with the club he loves.
“Having been taken in by the Brisbane Lions Academy, I am grateful for everything they have taught me, so it feels right to show my gratitude by signing with the club for another five years,” Payne said.
“I love these boys, the Club and everything we stand for, and I couldn't see myself playing anywhere else.
“Personally, I want to keep improving, and I will work with my coaches and teammates to become the best player I can.
“I feel we have the squad and structures in place to ensure we challenge for the next few years and hopefully we can win a flag during my time.”
Payne's re-signing follows the recent retentions of draftee Jaspa Fletcher (2026), ruckman Darcy Fort (2025) and trio Callum Ah Chee (2025), James Madden (2024) and Henry Smith (2026), while the Lions have managed to lock away Eric Hipwood (2029) and Zac Bailey (2026) across the course of the last eight months.
The Lions are preparing to rely on Payne and his defensive partner in crime, Harris Andrews on Sunday when they travel to Optus Stadium to face Fremantle as they look to move into a top two ladder position.
