Brisbane Lions forward Cam Rayner has closed on a long-term contract extension that sees him remain at the club until the end of the 2031 season.
The 25-year-old premiership star, who was set to become one of the most coveted free agents in 2025, signed a new deal spanning up to six years.
Rayner, the No.1 pick in the 2017 AFL Draft, enjoyed a career-best season in 2024, cementing his place as one of Brisbane's most dynamic players. He was selected in the All-Australian squad for the first time and kicked a personal-best 31 goals, including key contributions in the Lions' finals run.
Rayner's performances were crucial in Brisbane's elimination final win over Carlton and the preliminary final victory against Geelong, where his second-half efforts and game-sealing goal helped turn the tide in a come-from-behind triumph.
Drafted from the Western Jets, Rayner has long been a target of Victorian clubs, particularly with his free agency looming in 2025.
"I am stoked to be a part of this great football club for the future and hoping that it means I will be a Lion for life," Rayner said.
"The club and list are in such a strong position, and I feel like if I can continue to add to that, I am happy.
"We are back at the top of the mountain where we belong, and I hope that we can stay there for as long as we can.
"I love this club from top to bottom, whether it's the staff or players, everyone is so lovely and has made my journey so far as smooth and easy as it can be.
"A huge thanks also to my friends and family for the unwavering support I have and will always receive from them which I'm so lucky for."
Brisbane GM of Football Danny Daly said having Rayner commit for a further six years is a significant boost to the club's future success.
"Cam is an exceptionally talented player who has shown in his time with us how important he is on and off the field, which has been a key factor in our success," Daly said.
"As a 25-year-old, we see Cam as being a key part of the future of our football club, and we know our fans will be delighted that he has re-committed to the club.
"Everyone at the club is thrilled to have Cam, his partner Elise, his parents John and Nicole, as well as his siblings Lockie and Chelsea, staying at the Brisbane Lions, and we look forward to the Rayners continuing the journey with us."
Rayner's contract extension would be a significant boost for Brisbane, with other key forwards, including Callum Ah Chee, Kai Lohmann, and Logan Morris, also out of contract in 2025.
The Lions have worked hard to retain their premiership core, and locking in Rayner, one of their brightest talents, is a major step in securing their future.
Having joined the rare group of No.1 draft picks to win a premiership, Rayner's focus now shifts to continuing Brisbane's success, with the Lions determined to avoid the post-premiership slump that has affected recent champions.
Rayner's announcement follows a list of fellow senior Lions premiership players to re-sign with the club this year.
That list includes Co-Captain Harris Andrew, Co-Vice Captain Hugh McCluggage, Jarryd Berry, Charlie Cameron, Dayne Zorko and Ryan Lester.
Brisbane list managers and coaches are reportedly meeting on Monday for a "serious" conversation on how they'll replace retired star forward Joe Daniher.
Delisted Gold Coast tall Sam Day has been touted to fill the void.
