Brisbane has secured the services of up-and-coming Gaelic star Ben Murphy, who joins the reigning premiers as a Category B Rookie.
Murphy was initially eyed by the Lions nearly two years ago, who plays as a midfielder for Kerry and Austin Stacks.
He becomes the third Irishman on the Brisbane list, joining the likes of Conor McKenna and Darragh Joyce, while increasing the number of Irish players to six, including a trio of AFLW players.
"I am really excited to get the chance to join the Brisbane Lions and play AFL," Murphy said.
"I think anyone joining a team in the position the Lions are in, as back-to-back premiers, would be delighted, and I am no different."
Murphy faced Geelong premiership player and Kerry SFC winner Mark O'Connor in the final last week against Dingle.
The Lions recruit has watched from afar his fellow Irishman carve out careers in the AFL, and is keen to give it a shot himself.
"AFL is similar enough to Gaelic, though I expect to face a few obstacles like getting used to a totally new ball - but I'm excited to face the challenge," Murphy said.
"There have been a number of players make the switch, like Conor (McKenna) and Darragh (Joyce), already at the club.
"But there are also a few other players that I aspire to be like back in Kerry, like Mark O'Connor, Cillian Burke (Geelong), and I went to school with Rob Monahan (Carlton) as well.
"Seeing a person so close to you being successful really gives you the confidence that you can be too if you put your mind to it.
"I also hope to inspire other young players by showing them if you keep working hard, you will get your opportunities too."
Brisbane's Pro Scout, Shane Rogers, played a key role in identifying and putting in the work to sign Murphy, and discussed what he'll bring to the club.
"We are delighted to have Ben sign with the Club because he is an elite talent," Rogers said
"He stands at 191 centimetres and is growing, he has speed, has agility and an ability to read the game quickly.
"One of the attractive aspects of his recruitment is his calm demeanour, especially when under pressure within the game, that allows him to make excellent decisions.
"He also displays impressive traits such as strong work ethic; he is mature beyond his years and has leadership qualities, including being the Kerry under-17 captain.
"He has been a midfielder in Gaelic, though with his size and athletic profile, it should allow him to play multiple roles at AFL level.
"He will start as a defender initially whilst he learns the game, but has scope to develop craft across a number of lines and the ability to play wing long term."
He joins Sam Draper and Oscar Allen as additions to the club ahead of the 2026 season.
