Former Collingwood and North Melbourne player Jaidyn Stephenson won't be playing for Port Adelaide in 2026 after his SSP trial came to a close.
Stephenson was one of four players vying for a list spot at the Power, who now has three vacancies following Ivan Soldo's switch to the inactive list.
However, the former Rising Star winner wasn't able to secure an AFL lifeline, expressing his disappointment in missing out.
"Extremely disappointed," Stephenson told 9News.
"I've worked hard over the last four months, uprooted my life, moved from Melbourne, had a good job and was playing footy here.
"But the opportunity was there, and I'm certainly grateful that Port Adelaide gave me that opportunity."
Stephenson remained buoyant in his ability to return to the top flight, despite Port Adelaide not selecting him as an SSP.
The 122-gamer said he spoke to Power coach Josh Carr, who was honest and up front.
"We met up, and he said, ‘Mate, unfortunately we're not going to go with you, but thanks for coming over and we appreciate your time'," he added.
"I had an opportunity to chase my dream again, and I haven't given up on that either.
"There's footage of our internal game, I'm sure there's footage of that Crows game (SANFL practice match).
"So for anyone else that has an SSP spot out there, I encourage you to look at that because I'm hungry and I want to be playing AFL football again."
Stephenson joined Collingwood with Pick 6 in the 2017 draft and made an immediate impact, kicking 38 goals in his maiden season, including playing in the 2018 decider.
He spent another two years at the Pies before he was traded to North Melbourne.
After four years at Arden Street, Stephenson retired.
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