AFL Trade News: Adelaide Crows ruckman Reilly O'Brien squashes Victorian move rumours - "It's not the case at all"

Adelaide ruckman Reilly O'Brien has spoken out against rumors about a potential move to Victoria. The in-contract Crow confirmed that he's not seeking a trade after his recent fall out of favor at West Lakes.

O'Brien was dropped ahead of the Crows’ Round 13 clash with Richmond as the club attempts to fix their recent drop in form. The move came as a shock to many, as the 2020 Best and Fairest winner has held down the first-string ruck role at Adelaide for the past five years.

Since then, O’Brien has played two games in the SANFL to further develop his midfield abilities, in preparation for a possible return to the senior side soon. His return would follow a strong performance in the state league in recent weeks, while replacement Kieran Strachan has struggled since coming into the senior side.

O’Brien had been named a possible mover back to Melbourne. addressing the rumors, he told 10 News Adelaide that he had no intentions of leaving the Crows before his contract elapses, which would be next year.

"It's not the case at all. It's the first I've heard of that," O'Brien said. "I love being here. I love the club and the city. I'm certainly not (looking to move). Hopefully, I'm back in (the team) and playing good footy for years to come at the Crows. That's certainly the plan."

---

Adelaide Crows have several veterans who have not yet secured deals for next season

AFL Rd 14 - Adelaide v Sydney

Senior backman Brodie Smith and former captain Taylor Walker are unsigned for 2025. Smith could face the axe in selection in the coming weeks, despite being a seven-time club-leading goalkicker and a potential target for rival clubs needing a key forward.

The South Australian club has a long list of emerging defenders, which could possibly make 2024 Smith's last season. Walker, however, would likely be a retention target for Adelaide's list management team. Walker has remained loyal to the Crows across his 17-year career.

With both players’ contract ending date drawing nearer, a decision has to be made. Speaking to 10 News Adelaide, Reilly O'Brien stated he does not believe the veteran sharpshooter would have any intentions of leaving the Crows. He said:

"He's sort of the heart and soul of the club, and I think most members would agree. It'd be very weird seeing him play anywhere else. I'm confident he'll be playing at the club next year, but we'll wait and see."

Currently, Adelaide has Lachlan Sholl, Patrick Parnell, Ned McHenry, Elliot Himmelberg, William Hamill, Lachlan Gollant, Brayden Cook, James Borlase, Hugh Bond, and Sam Berry also off-contract.