Huge implications as twist emerges in Essendon star's free agency status

Essendon ruckman Sam Draper has been classed officially by the AFL as an unrestricted free agent, to the surprise of many.

After eight years of service, or if a player has been previously delisted, they can qualify for restricted free agency, allowing them to sign with a rival club - but still allowing their existing team to match any deal.

However, Nine's chief AFL reporter Tom Morris has revealed that because Draper isn't in the club's top 25 per cent of paid players, he jumps straight to unrestricted free agency.

MORE: 'Pay him what he wants': Eddie's pick for top AFL role

MORE: 'My phone is on': Dogs prop's message to NSW coach

MORE: 'Not happy': Frustration mounts for Lando Norris

"It's a huge surprise," Morris told 9News Melbourne.

"He's eight years into his career and the common belief was he would be restricted, but he's unrestricted because he isn't in the top 25 per cent of paid players at Essendon.

"I understand he is on around $550,000, maybe $600,000 a year and he's not in the top 10 or so players at the Dons, which means if he does decide to leave at the end of the year, the Dons can't do anything.

"With Adelaide circling, he has a big decision to make."

The Crows have been strongly linked to the South Australian ruckman for a number of years.

Adelaide will likely wish to upgrade from their current ruck setup, built around veteran Reilly O'Brien, at the end of the season.

Draper has had a strong start to the 2025 season after multiple years derailed by injury, averaging 19 hit-outs, 13 disposals and five score involvements per game.

However, with the torn ACL suffered by ruck partner Nick Bryan against Melbourne on Saturday night, the 26-year-old will likely need to carry a heavier load going forward.