I don’t have live access to the latest feeds right now, but here’s what’s generally known about Sam Draper recently:
- In 2025 there was ongoing discussion about his future at Essendon, with reports that he could seek a move as injuries impacted his form and contract status. This included speculation about potential destinations and his unrestricted free agent status.[1][4]
- By mid-2025 it was reported that Draper had officially nominated Brisbane as his club of choice for 2026, signaling a move away from Essendon despite ongoing injury concerns.[2]
- Early in 2026, Draper faced a setback with a stress-related foot issue that delayed his first season with Brisbane, keeping him out for several weeks as he recovered.[3]
If you’d like, I can pull in the latest confirmed updates and provide a concise timeline with citations. I can also summarize how this may affect Brisbane’s ruck setup and Essendon’s plans, or track any new developments from specific outlets you trust.
Sources
Essendon Football Club loses key ruckman Sam Draper to the Brisbane Lions on a five-year deal, with Draper citing mental and physical toll from injuries as reasons for seeking a fresh start. Captain Zach Merrett's future remains uncertain as he has y
7news.com.auSam Draper's breakout year has taken a cruel turn, with a feared Achilles injury throwing his Essendon future, and their ruck plans, into sudden disarray.
www.sportingnews.com‘I’d like to think that I would know before most.’
7news.com.auSam Draper is facing a delayed start to his first season at the Lions
www.afl.com.auSam Draper is a Brisbane Lions AFL player. View career stats, contract details, latest news, injury updates SuperCoach and AFL Fantasy stats & scores, and rumours.
www.zerohanger.comSam Draper of Essendon Bombers player profile including SuperCoach and AFL Fantasy stats & scores, contract information, AFL news, stats and rumours.
www.zerohanger.comEssendon coach Brad Scott has played down rumours linking Sam Draper with a move to Brisbane, but concedes there are doubts whether the unrestricted free agent will stay.
www.espn.com.auEssendon ruck Sam Draper has nominated his club of choice
www.afl.com.au