Carlton gun signs historic contract

Carlton midfielder Sam Walsh has signed a mega eight-year extension, keeping him at Ikon Park until the end of 2034.

Walsh was set to become one of the hottest names in the free agency market, but has turned down any potential play from rival clubs.

His new deal is the biggest deal in Carlton history.

The former Pick 1 joins Caleb Serong and Kysaiah Pickett as the longest signed players in the competition.

"I love this Club. I am a Carlton person and I couldn't be happier to continue my career here," Walsh said.   

"This was obviously a big decision for me, but it was made so much easier because I know we are heading in the right direction. I make no secret of the fact that I want to win, and I want to win with the Carlton monogram on my chest.  

"I truly believe that the key people we have here, and where our group is at right now, we are seeing a significant shift as we head into this next period of our football club, one that I know is going to be really exciting to be part of.   

"When I arrived, our Club was last on the ladder. Footy isn't a linear experience, everyone knows that, but I am all in on the next eight years and doing everything I can to help us reach the top and stay there - the day we do will mean everything to me.

"The Carlton family is like no other: the roar, the passion is unbelievable. To continue to share that with you all, I can't wait - it is going to be special to do that together."

Walsh's individual accolades have also begun stacking up, earning a 2021 All-Australian blazer and John Nicholls Medal.

He also won the 2019 Rising Star as well as the AFLPA Best first year player.

He joined the leadership group in 2023 as co-vice captain under Patrick Cripps, and was also a Gary Ayres Medallist in the same year.