Brisbane premiership defender Brandon Starcevich is yet to commit to the Lions beyond 2024, with rival clubs circling and AFL insiders calling his situation one of the most intriguing in this year’s free agency landscape.
Back in the side after a concussion setback, the 25-year-old has had a range of offers from Brisbane “for months” according to AFL Media’s Cal Twomey, but has so far resisted signing, opening the door for interest from Essendon, North Melbourne and clubs in his home state of Western Australia.
“He’s got a big call to make”
“Brandon Starcevich is an intriguing contract call for me; one of the more intriguing in the competition,” Twomey said on Gettable.
“Brisbane had short and longer-term offers in front of him for months… but Starcevich is going through the process; meeting clubs and thinking hard about what it would mean to leave Brisbane.”
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Twomey noted that the opportunity to move further up the ground, particularly into midfield roles, is a factor in the East Perth product’s deliberations, as is the chance to return closer to home.
While Essendon are firmly in the race and North Melbourne have shown interest, Twomey believes the Roos may not pursue Starcevich as aggressively as initially expected.
A restricted free agent, Starcevich has played 122 games since debuting in 2018. Brisbane retain the right to match any rival bid, but with the defender actively exploring his options, a big decision looms.