Zak Butters considered announcing his Port Adelaide exit during the season
Butters says he decided before the 2026 campaign that this would be his last year at Port.
The Western Bulldogs unveiled Zak Butters on Monday after his move as a free agent. The 26-year-old midfielder signed a nine-year deal worth $2 million a season.
Butters considered announcing the move during the season, but said the AFL was not quite ready for it. Butters says he decided before the 2026 season that this would be his last season at Port Adelaide.
In the NRL, rival deals are often announced during the season, months before the move happens. Listed AFL players coming off-contract can officially move only in the off-season.
Butters, a three-time All-Australian, was strongly courted by the Bulldogs, Geelong, Collingwood and Richmond throughout the year. He did not fully decide until he went home to his family property at Darley, west of Melbourne.
- nine-year deal worth $2 million a season
- Contract
- 26
- Age
- Western Bulldogs
- Club signed to
Why it mattersAFL rules mean a player's move can only become official in the off-season, unlike in the NRL. That shapes when fans learn about big player moves.
AustraliaFooty fans who follow the Western Bulldogs may see Butters partner Marcus Bontempelli in midfield.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 56 min ago
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