Overview
- Essendon confirmed Draper informed the club he will depart at season’s end, with his next team yet to be officially named.
- Multiple outlets report he is expected to join the Brisbane Lions in free agency, while Adelaide had also been in the mix.
- The Bombers had lifted their retention offer to a five-year deal, which Draper declined before opting to explore free agency.
- Draper has played 78 games since the 2016 rookie draft and ruptured his Achilles in round six this season.
- The AFL will determine Essendon’s compensation pick based on Draper’s eventual contract, with formal lodgement expected in October.