Zak Butters signs with Western Bulldogs in record AFL deal
Zak Butters has signed with the Western Bulldogs on a record nine-year AFL deal.
Zak Butters has ended months of speculation by nominating the Western Bulldogs as his new club. The 26-year-old restricted free agent narrowed his choice between Geelong and the Bulldogs before settling on the Dogs.
The Western Bulldogs offered a record nine-year contract worth upwards of $1.8-2 million per season. Butters grew up in Darley in Victoria's western suburbs and idolised Bulldogs champion Marcus Bontempelli, which helped seal his decision.
Butters leaves Port Adelaide after eight years and 156 games. He captained the Power this year and is a three-time best and fairest winner at the club.
Securing Butters would be the biggest trade coup in the Bulldogs' modern history. Port Adelaide and the Western Bulldogs will now ramp up negotiations on how to complete the deal during the trade period.
- 26 years old
- Age
- 8 years and 156 games
- Port Adelaide tenure
- Upwards of $1.8-2 million per season
- Contract value
- Record nine years
- Contract length
Why it mattersOne of the AFL's best midfielders moving to a rival club reshapes the 2027 premiership race and marks a rare high-profile defection for Port Adelaide.
AustraliaAFL fans across Australia will see Butters in Bulldogs colours next season, marking a significant shift in the league's competitive balance.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 13 d ago
