Delisted Western Bulldogs defender Liam Jones says he'll turn to football coaching if he can't find his way onto an AFL list.
Jones was farewelled by the Bulldogs after a difficult season marred by soft-tissue injuries, and ultimately fell out of favour under Luke Beveridge.
The 34-year-old was limited to five senior games (his lowest return since his debut season), but had a dozen VFL matches in 2025.
But Jones refuses to retire, saying he'd like to "leave the door ajar" for a return.
"My manager (Shane Casley from TGI Sport) has made people aware that I am willing to play on, that's why the decision to not retire is there to leave the door ajar," Jones said on SEN.
"If there was some genuine interest and another opportunity to play at AFL level (I'd take it), because you're a long-time retired. I still feel like I can play the game.
"It's a very busy period for a lot of clubs. I'm assuming that a lot of conversations are being had. At this stage, I'm probably not a high priority on the list, but something might pop up over the next few weeks.
"If it doesn't, I'd love to stay in football, so if that was to be as a development coach or be involved in some capacity, I love the game and would be excited about that opportunity as well."
Jones still believes that with the right preparation, which was taken away from him this season, he can still compete at the level, as reflected by his back-to-back (2023, 2024) top-five finishes in the Bulldogs' best-and-fairest.
"It's left me still wanting and pushing for that opportunity if it was to come because I still believe I can play given the right preparation," Jones added.
"When I came back to the Bulldogs for my second stint, I was able to finish in the top five both times."
"I understand that's how it works. If you're not playing at your best, then you have to move aside and someone else gets an opportunity."
Jones is now seen as a low-budget option, and could fill a defensive role as a delisted free agent.
The Free Agency Period opens on Friday, and runs until October 10.
