Brisbane has bolstered its defensive stocks for the 2024 season after re-signing Irishman Darragh Joyce to a one-year extension.
Joyce, a former Saint, made his way north during the 2022 off-season, entering the Lions' den after earning a place on the club's rookie list.
While Joyce has managed just five AFL appearances during his first season in the Sunshine State, the Irishman has a wealth of experience, having held a place on an AFL list since the dawn of the 2018 season.
News of Joyce's recommitment in the River City was first broken by SEN's Sam Edmund via Twitter on Thursday morning.
Brisbane Lions defender Darragh Joyce has signed a one-year contract extension at the Gabba. The Irishman was rookie-listed at Brisbane for this year, making just the five appearances, but the Lions need that key back depth.
— Sam Edmund (@Sammy__Edmund) September 14, 2023
Despite failing to set the world on fire with the Saints during his 13 games in red, white and black, Joyce has played a helping hand for Chris Fagan's side, averaging five marks per appearance throughout 2023.
And though Joyce has produced a worrying 14 clangers during his time under Fagan, the former county Kilkenny hurler has produced improved numbers at VFL level this season, averaging 15 disposals and 6.7 marks across his 15 reserve outings.
Should the Lions prove lucky with injuries throughout the remainder of September, Joyce is unlikely to feature at senior level again this season.
However, the 26-year-old will have a role to play in Brisbane's VFL preliminary final against Werribee at Avalon Airport Oval on Saturday afternoon.
The winner of said game will progress to the 2023 VFL Grand Final to play either Gold Coast or Box Hill.
