Western Bulldogs forward-turned-defender Rory Lobb has penned a contract extension, signing until the end of 2027.
Lobb is arguably in career-best form after finding a home in Luke Beveridge's defensive line-up, locking down the competition's best talls whilst helping intercept the football.
The 32-year-old has had a mixed career to date, resulting in three clubs (GWS, Fremantle and the Bulldogs) and 185 games across 11 completed seasons.
Lobb struggled to cement his spot in Beveridge's side up forward, falling behind the likes of Aaron Naughton, Sam Darcy and Jamarra Ugle-Hagan, but has found a niche role in the backline.
"Rory has continued to play a crucial role for our team, particularly since his move to defence late last season," EGM of Football Sam Power said.
"He continues to show his trademark ability to compete in the air and take contested marks, while showing durability and consistency as a key position player.
"Rory will do anything for the team, moving to either end of the ground at different stages in 2025 due to injury or necessity.
"We look forward to having Rory in red, white and blue for the next two seasons."
It was halfway through the 2024 season that Lobb's time at the Western Bulldogs looked all but over after failing to make a consistent impact, but an inspired move to the opposite end of the ground whisked away rival interest.
The remarkable turnaround that led to the 206cm athlete playing in defence could be one of the damning coaching moves in recent times, turning the Bulldogs into a defensive powerhouse, ranking first for points against last year after 24 Rounds, and ninth this year, albeit dealing with a host of injuries to key players.
Beveridge and his men have weathered the storm to sit 5-4 after nine weeks, and will face Essendon to continue their rise up the ladder.
