Jack Graham’s Move to West Coast Eagles Confirmed in Major AFL Trade
It’s official – Jack Graham, the dual premiership-winning Richmond midfielder, is heading west to join the West Coast Eagles. After much speculation and a reported increased offer from Richmond to keep him, Graham has decided to exercise his rights as a free agent, opting for a four-year deal with the Eagles. This move marks a significant acquisition for West Coast as they aim to rebuild and strengthen their squad for the upcoming seasons.
The 26-year-old has been a cornerstone player for Richmond, debuting in 2017 and famously kicking three goals in the Tigers' Grand Final win against Adelaide, which was only his fifth AFL match. Graham’s influence on the field has been consistent throughout his 130 games with the Tigers, showcasing his talent as a reliable midfielder with a strong defensive presence. However, his journey hasn't been without setbacks. He notably missed out on the 2019 Grand Final due to a shoulder injury, which led to his replacement by Marlion Pickett, a decision that was one of the most talked-about moments in that year's premiership.
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Graham’s decision to move to the Eagles comes after a period of careful consideration, with the Tigers offering a four-year extension to match the Eagles' offer. Despite Richmond's efforts, the lure of a fresh start in Western Australia, along with the chance to reunite with former Richmond assistant coach Andrew McQualter—now head coach at West Coast—was too strong to resist.
As an unrestricted free agent, the Eagles are not required to trade for Graham, but the AFL will assess Richmond’s compensation based on his contract length, salary, and age. For Richmond, losing a player of Graham’s caliber will sting, but his legacy at the club remains intact with two premiership titles under his belt.
West Coast, for their part, are expected to benefit immensely from Graham’s experience and leadership, especially as they undergo a transition period with new coaching staff and key player acquisitions. The Eagles have made it clear that Graham is the first of several key moves they plan to make this offseason, and with his addition, their midfield looks to be significantly bolstered.
Jack Graham’s journey from a young talent at Richmond to a seasoned AFL star now continues with a new chapter at West Coast, where he’ll aim to bring the same tenacity and success that marked his career in Victoria. Fans of both Richmond and West Coast will be keenly watching how this move shakes up the dynamics for both teams heading into the 2025 season.
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