<h2>Draper Confirms Essendon Exit, Set To Join Lions As Free Agent - Three Point Summary:&nbsp;</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>-Sam Draper confirms Brisbane Lions move via free agency, rejecting Adelaide Crows' approach despite South Australian origins</p> <p>-Essendon ruckman's departure follows a nine-season stint after being drafted as No.1 rookie pick in 2016</p> <p>-Lions continue aggressive recruitment drive with Oscar Allen also on their radar as restricted free agent target</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Essendon star ruckman Sam Draper will join Brisbane Lions next season through free agency, signing with the club as an Unrestricted Free Agent.&nbsp;</p> <p>Draper is set to join on a five-year deal, rejecting bids to remain at Tulamarine and a bid from the Adelaide Crows in his home state of South Australia.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <p>The 26-year-old has played 76 games for Essendon over nine years at the club, and has only managed five games in 2025 after rupturing his Achilles tendon against the Eagles in Round six.&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Draper Chooses Lions Over Crows Return</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>It is expected that the 26-year-old ruckman has opted to head north to Queensland rather than return to South Australia, despite significant interest from the Adelaide Crows. According to Nine's chief AFL reporter, Tom Morris, Draper will officially join the Lions when the free agency period opens, marking the end of his nine-season tenure at Essendon.</p> <p>The South Australian product was originally selected as the No.1 overall pick in the 2016 rookie draft and has been a consistent performer for the Bombers throughout his career. His decision to knock back Adelaide's approach demonstrates Brisbane's growing appeal as a destination club following their recent finals appearances.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Injury-Interrupted Season Ends Bombers' Career</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Draper's final season in the red and black guernsey was unfortunately cut short due to injury. The reliable ruckman suffered a devastating Achilles rupture in round six, contributing to Essendon's horror injury crisis that plagued their 2024 campaign.</p> <p>Despite the setback, Draper's overall contribution to the Bombers has been substantial. Across 78 appearances, he managed 43 goals while establishing himself as one of the competition's more dependable ruckmen. His departure represents a significant loss for Essendon's ruck stocks heading into next season.</p> <p>The Bombers are expected to receive compensation for Draper's departure, given his status as an unrestricted free agent. This compensation could prove crucial as they look to rebuild their list and address the gaps left by departing players.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Lions Continue Aggressive Recruitment Strategy</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Brisbane's pursuit of Draper forms part of a broader recruitment strategy as they attempt to strengthen their list for another premiership tilt. The Lions have been one of the more active clubs during this trade period, with their sights set on multiple targets.</p> <p>The club remains in hot pursuit of West Coast co-captain Oscar Allen, who has informed the Eagles of his desire to explore free agency options. Allen's status as a restricted free agent means West Coast can match any offer, but Brisbane's determination suggests they're prepared to make a compelling case.</p> <p>This dual pursuit of quality talls in Draper and Allen indicates Brisbane's recognition that ruck and key forward depth will be crucial for sustained success. Both players would address specific list needs while adding experience and quality to an already competitive squad.</p> <p>For punters looking ahead to the 2025 season, these potential acquisitions could significantly impact Brisbane's premiership odds. The addition of proven performers like Draper and potentially Allen would strengthen their credentials as genuine contenders again.</p> <p>Essendon, meanwhile, faces the challenge of replacing a key component of its structure. The Bombers' ability to adequately fill the void left by Draper's departure could influence their positioning in early-season markets.</p> <p>The free agency period continues to reshape the AFL landscape, with Draper's confirmed move to Brisbane representing another significant piece of the puzzle falling into place.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><em>For all the latest AFL Trade, Free Agency and Contract news this off-season, keep clicking back to<strong> <a href="https://www.sportsbet.com.au/huddle/afl">The Huddle</a></strong> to keep you across all the movement and where your club's picks for the <strong><a href="https://www.sportsbet.com.au/huddle/afl/news/2025-afl-draft-order">2025 AFL Draft</a></strong> fall.</em></p>