West Coast has brutally delisted Matt Owies despite having a contract for the 2027 season.
Owies joined the Eagles at the end of 2024 after kicking a career-high 33 goals for Carlton that season.
But he struggled to have the same impact out west, kicking seven goals in 16 games last year before playing just thrice in 2026.
With fellow ground level forward Harvey Johnston also delisted, the Eagles look likely to pick up small front-half threats at next month's National Draft to complement talls Jake Waterman, Jobe Shanahan and Cooper Duff-Tytler.
The Eagles delisting a player in contract seemed inevitable when they re-signed everyone out-of-contract and they had just two open list spots, despite three AFL Draft selections in the top 24.
“During ongoing discussions with Matt and his management group, Matt had been open to his time at West Coast coming to an end and moving back to Victoria,” List Boss Matt Clarke said.
“On behalf of the club, I would like to thank Matt for his contribution over the past two years.
“We wish him nothing but the best for the future.”
Owies was thankful for his opportunity at the Eagles in two seasons under senior coach Andrew McQualter.
“I have loved my time here and know the guys are going in the right direction under Mini,” Owies said.
“It obviously hasn't worked out like we hoped but that's life and I wish the club nothing but success.”
