Brisbane has locked in three of its premiership veterans, with Conor McKenna and Darcy Fort signing two-year extensions and Lincoln McCarthy staying on for 2027.
The Lions confirmed the new deals on Monday. Triple premiership ruckman Fort and two-time premiership utility McKenna are now contracted until the end of 2028, while veteran utility McCarthy has signed on for next season.
The news ends speculation about McKenna’s future. Fox Sports noted rumours had swirled that the 30-year-old Irishman might retire after September’s grand final, before Seven’s Xander McGuire reported his two-year commitment.
What the club said
Brisbane general manager of football Danny Daly said keeping the experienced trio was a significant result for the club.
“It is fantastic to have Darcy, Conor and Linc committed to the Brisbane Lions as they have all played an important role in our success and will continue to do so,” Daly said.
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“All three offer plenty on field as players, and their experience and leadership are also incredibly valuable – especially in supporting our younger players.
“We look forward to having all three players and their families continue to be part of the Brisbane Lions.”
Milestones in sight
Fort, 33, joined the Lions ahead of the 2022 season after eight games in three years at Geelong. He has now played in three straight flags with Brisbane and has 83 games to his name, closing in on 100.
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McKenna came to Brisbane through the 2023 pre-season supplemental selection period after 79 games for Essendon and two seasons back home playing Gaelic football in Ireland. He is on 149 career games and is set to bring up his 150th in 2027.
McCarthy crossed from Geelong in the 2018 trade period and is preparing for his 16th AFL season.
With the three deals done, Brisbane can now turn its attention to the national draft.
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