A recent phone call from Adelaide’s coach Matthew Nicks may have influenced Essendon ruckman Sam Draper’s decision regarding his future, as reported by Nine AFL journalist Sam McClure. Initially, Draper seemed torn between remaining with the Bombers or moving to Brisbane, where the Lions had expressed a strong interest due to their pressing need for a primary ruckman. However, his South Australian roots and fondness for Adelaide have rekindled his interest in the Crows after Nicks’s enthusiastic outreach.
Draper, who has missed most of the 2025 season due to a torn Achilles injury, is now giving serious thought to a potential move to Adelaide, underscoring the importance of personal engagement in player recruitment. Essendon great Matthew Lloyd commented that the Bombers’ current struggles could deter Draper, adding that his prospects for success with either Adelaide or Brisbane might weigh heavily in his decision-making process.
While both clubs offer promising environments, Lloyd noted that Draper would likely be the top ruckman at Brisbane, reflecting on the necessity of having a reliable ruckman after injuries have affected team performance. Although not viewed as a strong forward, Draper has the capability to fulfil dual roles.
Concerns have also been raised about whether Adelaide could accommodate both Draper and their recently re-signed number one ruckman, Reilly O’Brien, given the existing tall players in their lineup. Brownlow Medallist Jimmy Bartel questioned if adding Draper to a forward line already populated by Taylor Walker, Riley Thilthorpe, and Darcy Fogarty would benefit his playing style.
On the other hand, Brisbane’s 31-year-old Oscar McInerney has faced inconsistencies this season, and the club may be eager to secure Draper to solidify their ruck division. However, the potential compensation for losing Draper remains a point of contention, as Lloyd suggested that unless Essendon received a first-round pick, they might regret letting him go.
As the situation develops, it’s clear that Draper’s future is a pivotal topic in the AFL landscape, particularly with his negotiations still in early stages and Adelaide’s keen interest. Adelaide coach Matthew Nicks has opted not to comment on the recruitment speculation as the clubs gear up for a crucial off-season ahead.