Brisbane veteran Lachie Neale won't be making a call on his playing future in Queensland anytime soon, with attention on his future piqued in the wake of his decision to step down as captain of the Lions.
Neale confirmed on Friday that personal issues have played a part in his decision to relinquish the captaincy, with the two-time Brownlow Medal winner recently separating from his wife Jules and placing a priority on the well-being of his family.
The 32-year-old is entering the final year of his contract with Brisbane and is eligible for free agency under the unrestricted band.
His contract status, coupled with his recent family matter and captaincy decision, has raised questions over Neale's future in Brisbane beyond 2026.
Speaking to media on Friday, Neale confirmed he's committed to the Lions for the year ahead, and may not make a call on his playing future until the midway mark of the season.
"I'll be here for this season coming up," he said.
"I'm fully committed to putting everything I can into footy, and can't wait to get into training. I'm looking forward to it.
"I haven't really considered [my future] yet. I think my decision was always put on hold with my contract, regardless.
"We'll work that out for the next six months, basically. So we've got a bit of time."
Both Fremantle and West Coast were linked to Neale last year, despite the former Docker being under contract.
In addressing his exit from the club's leadership group, Neale said he hopes the decision to step down as captain will "be a great outlet" for the midfielder to place a greater focus on his football.
"I feel that it's going to be a great outlet for me, to be honest, with everything going on," he said.
"I'm really confident that I can play some really good footy this year."
Neale has played 294 AFL games since debuting with Fremantle in 2012, playing 135 matches in purple before crossing to the Lions after seven seasons in Western Australia.
A two-time premiership captain of Brisbane, Neale is also a dual Brownlow Medal winner and has been selected in the All-Australia team four times.
He has won four best and fairests with Brisbane, adding to his two Doig Medals as a Docker.
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