Unrestricted free agent Sam Draper will find himself in Brisbane colours from 2026 onwards after the decision on his playing future was confirmed.
Draper informed Essendon last week that he was to explore his free agency rights, and as an unrestricted player the club was unable to match any bid by a rival side.
Throughout the season, the ruckman was pulled between the Bombers, Adelaide and the Lions, with the latter officially pipping his home state club for his signature, per AFL.com.au.
As expected, Sam Draper has officially nominated Brisbane as his new home. He will join as an unrestricted free agent.
Essendon now waits to see if it gets a first-round pick (which would be pick No.6 after Oscar Allen compo) or end-of-first round pick (No.21). @AFLcomau https://t.co/JicxJyXJUx
— Callum Twomey (@CalTwomey) September 16, 2025
Draper flagged a reason for his departure was the injuries he's sustained over the years, which have prevented him from playing a full season in all but one year (2022).
"I want to take a moment to thank everyone who has been part of my journey at Essendon Football Club. Pulling on the red and black has been such a huge honour and I'll always be grateful for the opportunity to represent such a proud club," Draper said.
"To my teammates, you are like brothers to me and the reason why I love coming to work every day. To the supporters, you have shown so much love to me, and I have really felt that. Seeing people wearing the number 2 and kids growing mullets to be like me is something I will never forget.
"Personally, the last few years haven't been easy with all the injuries I've sustained. This has taken a toll on me both mentally and physically, and I've had to make a very hard decision for what's best for me moving forward, and I feel it's the right time for a fresh start."
The Bombers will wait for the compensation they will receive from the 26-year-old's departure.
Draper will head north alongside West Coast co-captain Oscar Allen, who is in search of more success after the Eagles' turn for the worse in recent years.
Essendon defender Jordan Ridley is also keen to head to the reigning premiers, but is under contract at the Hangar, and has been deemed untradeable by the club.
