Tasmania sign delisted Swans defender

The Tasmania Devils have made another addition to their 2026 VFL side, signing delisted Sydney defender Caleb Mitchell.

Mitchell was taken at pick 40 in the 2022 AFL draft and played three games for the Swans across the last two seasons, usually deployed off half-back where he could capitalise on his elite running abilities.

Mitchell excelled at state-league level for the Swans, being a leading possession winner in the VFL, collecting at least 20 disposals on seven occasions in 2025.

The 21-year-old highlighted Tasmania's strong pitch as a key factor in his decision to join the Devils.

"Tassie is proud footy state and is going to be a great place for me to live and develop my game," Mitchell said.

"The pitch from the club was very professional and the vision laid out was compelling."

"I feel like my best football is ahead of me and I can't wait to contribute to the strong foundations being built at the Tassie Devils."

Tasmania Football Club Head of List Management and Strategy Todd Patterson believes Mitchell has the potential to play at the elite level again as the Devils look to enter the AFL in 2028.

"Caleb is a massive signing for us," Patterson said.

"We believe he has genuine scope to get back to AFL level and in many ways was in the wrong spot at the right time given the strength of the Sydney squad.

"His skillset and experience are going to be very important for us as we re-enter the VFL, with his versatility and ability to cover the ground set to provide the team with plenty of options.

"Importantly for us, Caleb had much interest from around the country, but he can see the vision and potential for young people in our state now and wants to be part of that journey."