The Brisbane Lions are undergoing a significant transformation as the 2024 AFL trade period unfolds, with both promising young talents and seasoned players on the move. In what could reshape the club’s future, midfielder Deven Robertson is exploring options on the open market, while ruckman Kalin Lane has been delisted after an injury-plagued season. These developments mark the start of a major roster overhaul at the club, just weeks after Brisbane secured the AFL premiership.
Deven Robertson’s decision to assess his future is one of the most intriguing storylines of the trade period. After a difficult season in which he managed just two appearances due to form and injury issues, the 23-year-old midfielder is looking for a fresh start. Robertson had turned down interest from West Coast last year, re-signing with Brisbane on a two-year deal, but he is now reconsidering his options in search of more consistent game time.
Brisbane Lions’ list manager Dom Ambrogio confirmed that Robertson has had open discussions with the club but has not specified a preferred destination. With the Lions’ midfield becoming increasingly crowded, thanks to the arrival of young draftees like Levi Ashcroft and Sam Marshall, Robertson’s departure could be on the horizon. West Coast is expected to rekindle its interest in the Perth native, with other clubs also likely to enter the race for his signature.
Meanwhile, in a move that further underscores Brisbane’s clearout, 22-year-old ruckman Kalin Lane has been delisted following a challenging, injury-hit season. Lane, who hails from the Great Southern region and was selected in the 2021 mid-season rookie draft, was poised for a breakthrough before rupturing his ACL in July. This injury, combined with other setbacks, meant Lane never made his AFL debut, despite showing promise in 52 games for Brisbane’s VFL side.
Along with Lane, the Lions have also parted ways with Carter Michael and James Madden. Danny Daly, the club’s general manager of football, acknowledged the contributions of these players, particularly in the face of injury challenges, and wished them well for the future.
The delisting of key players like Lane and the uncertainty surrounding Robertson’s future highlight Brisbane’s intent to refresh their squad as they prepare for the 2025 season. After the high of winning the 2024 premiership, the Lions are focused on maintaining their competitive edge, which could mean saying goodbye to players who have struggled to break into the senior team.
With Robertson likely to command attention from clubs in need of midfield reinforcements, and Lane potentially seeking new opportunities elsewhere, Brisbane’s clearout is only just beginning. The Lions will now focus on securing the right balance of new talent, through both the draft and potential trades, as they aim to continue their premiership-winning form.
As the AFL trade period heats up, Brisbane’s roster changes could have ripple effects across the league, leaving fans and analysts alike to wonder: could the Lions come to regret letting these players go?