‘Pretty easy’: Lions score another big contract win
Another highly sought free agent is off the table after Brisbane capped off a major double signing coup with Jarrod Berry agreeing to a new five-year deal.
Berry followed close friend and fellow 2016 draft pick Hugh McCluggage into signing a long-term deal on Tuesday, with the tall midfielder to remain a Lion until at least the end of 2029.
The double re-signing leaves a sparse field of free agents for clubs to target at the season’s end despite many having room in their salary caps to attempt to lure a big name.
Berry, 26, said he wanted to reward the club’s faith in him by signing the new deal.
‘Pretty easy’: Lions score another big contract win
“It is a pretty awesome moment, super proud of my journey so far and being able to stick with the one club is pretty special to me. It was nice to see the club put their faith in me, and I’ll be here for a little bit longer,” Berry said.
“The people, the friendships, and bonds I’ve formed over the eight years I have been here and the people outside of the club that support me has been tremendous.
“It was pretty easy for me to not want to leave, and I feel like I’ve built a life up here and it’s been pretty good, so I am excited about the future.”
Berry has spent a greater proportion of playing time as an inside midfielder this season and has been statistically enjoying the best of his eight seasons.
The tough 192cm on-baller is averaging career highs for disposals (21.3), marks (5.9) and clearances (2.9) and has played every game this season.