<h2>Willie Rioli Retires in Port Adelaide List Overhaul - Quick Hands Summary:&nbsp;</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>-Willie Rioli announces surprise retirement from AFL at age 30 despite being contracted for 2026 season</p> <p>-Port Adelaide delists five players, including Ryan Burton and Jeremy Finlayson, in the first moves under new coach Josh Carr</p> <p>-Power prioritises youth development with emerging small forwards Joe Berry and Tom Cochrane set for increased opportunities</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Port Adelaide has made significant list changes following their disappointing 2025 AFL season, with Willie Rioli's shock retirement and five player delistings announced this week.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Willie Rioli's Surprise Retirement Decision</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The 30-year-old small forward has called time on his AFL career despite having a contract for the 2026 season. It comes after a season filled with controversies and moments. He expressed his hatred for Hawthorn in a social media post in late April before he allegedly made threats to opponents on-field and on social media in May.</p> <p>He battled fitness and form issues later in the year before making up his mind to call time on his AFL career, having given it his all.&nbsp;</p> <p>"I have given all I can to the game at the highest level," Rioli stated in his retirement announcement. "I made up my mind a couple of weeks ago that this would be my last season."</p> <p>Rioli's retirement comes as a strategic move to create opportunities for Port Adelaide's emerging talent, particularly young small forwards Joe Berry and Tom Cochrane.</p> <p>The decision reflects Rioli's commitment to Port Adelaide's future development. His willingness to step aside demonstrates the selfless approach that has characterised his career, prioritising team success over personal achievements.</p> <p>Rioli's AFL journey began when West Coast selected him with Pick 52 in the 2016 draft. He debuted in 2018 and quickly established himself as a key contributor to the Eagles' premiership triumph that same year, defeating Collingwood in the grand final.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Career Statistics and Journey</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Across his AFL career, Rioli compiled impressive statistics spanning two clubs. At West Coast, he played 51 games and kicked 60 goals, contributing significantly to their 2018 flag success. His tenure with the Eagles showcased his ability to perform on the biggest stage.</p> <p>Following a two-year ban for tampering with a urine sample, Rioli joined Port Adelaide before the 2023 season. During his time at the Power, he featured in 57 games and kicked 91 goals, demonstrating consistent goal-scoring ability.</p> <p>His complete AFL statistics total 108 games and 161 goals, representing a solid career output for a player selected outside the first round of the draft.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Port Adelaide's List Overhaul</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The Power has commenced its off-season restructure under new head coach Josh Carr, delisting five players alongside Rioli's retirement. Ryan Burton, Jeremy Finlayson, Lachie Charleson, Dylan Williams, Jed McEntee, and Hugh Jackson have been released from their contracts.</p> <p>List manager Jason Cripps acknowledged the contributions of the departing players, particularly highlighting Burton and Finlayson's versatility and depth when required by the AFL side.</p> <p>Burton's departure marks the end of a significant chapter, with the defender playing 115 games across seven seasons and contributing to Port Adelaide's successful periods. Finlayson managed 62 games over four seasons, while Charleson, Williams, and Jackson struggled for consistent AFL opportunities during their respective tenures.</p> <p>These changes signal Port Adelaide's commitment to refreshing their list composition following an underwhelming 2025 campaign. The focus on youth development, exemplified by Rioli's decision to retire early, suggests the club is prioritising long-term success over short-term stability.</p>