Brisbane has re-signed Conor McKenna and Darragh Joyce to one-year deals, while delisting forward Lincoln McCarthy, but has committed to redrafting him as a rookie.
McCarthy has had a horrible run of injuries over the past two years, tearing an ACL early in 2024 before re-injuring his knee ahead of the most recent season.
The 31-year-old was initially drafted by Geelong in 2011, but after many seasons derailed by injury, he found greener pastures at the Lions, and was traded seven years later.
McCarthy has added 122 games to his 29 at the Cats, and was a crucial member of Brisbane's 2023 grand final appearance, but ultimately fell short.
McKenna continues his time in Queensland despite a relatively lean year on the park.
The former Bomber joined the Lions ahead of 2023 after a stint in Ireland, and played 26 games, including the grand final.
Everyone's favourite Irish duo have locked in for another year! 🦁🌟 pic.twitter.com/WXg0p8K1cN
— Brisbane Lions (@brisbanelions) October 24, 2025
He continued his form from the following season, featuring in 18 matches as well as the 2024 premiership triumph, redeeming the efforts from 12 months earlier.
However, McKenna took a backseat in 2025, playing only five games as his teammates secured a second consecutive flag.
As for Joyce, he continues to act as key defensive depth, and wasn't sighted this year in the senior side.
He was originally at St Kilda, but after five years and 13 games, he made the switch north as a rookie.
Joyce has added 11 games in the maroon.
"Both Conor and Darragh continue to work hard, and their new contract is due reward for their effort," Lions GM of Football, Danny Daly said.
"They are determined to put in a solid preseason and continue to push for AFL selection in 2026, which we look forward to."
Callum Ah Chee is the only uncontracted player left on Brisbane's list, but is expected to join Adelaide via the pre-season draft, as a deal between the two clubs wasn't met before the end of the trade period.
