Carlton has confirmed further changes to its playing list, with Jack Carroll departing the club after not being offered a new contract, while Sam Durdin and Matt Carroll will have a chance to earn their spots through train-on opportunities during the 2025 preseason.
Jack Carroll, selected with Pick 41 in the 2020 AFL Draft, played 21 games across four seasons in the navy blue.
The 21-year-old midfielder, originally from Geraldton in Western Australia, made his debut in 2022 and played 15 matches in 2024, showing promise as a versatile on-baller. However, despite his contributions, the Blues have opted to move on.
“Jack leaves the football club with lifelong friendships, which is a testament to the positive contribution he made to the group during his four seasons with us, and we wish him well for the next opportunity in his career,” Carlton's Head of List Management Nick Austin said.
Meanwhile, defender Sam Durdin and youngster Matt Carroll have been offered a lifeline through Carlton's train-on program.
Durdin, who was drafted during the 2022 Mid-season Rookie Draft, has only played two senior games in his time with the Blues, with injuries limiting his availability.
Matt Carroll, selected at Pick 15 in the 2023 Rookie Draft, missed the 2024 season due to a persistent groin injury but returned to play a reserves match late in the year.
Austin acknowledged the resilience of both Durdin and Carroll.
“Sam and Matt had their challenges with injury this year but we have admired their resilience to keep fronting up. While both players have not been offered new playing contracts to this point, they have both been invited to train with the squad and push for a spot on the playing list during the upcoming preseason,” he said.
These latest list changes follow Carlton's earlier moves, which saw players like David Cuningham, Caleb Marchbank, and Jack Martin depart the club.
As the Blues look to reshape their list, notably with Pick 3 in the upcoming National Draft, the upcoming train-on opportunities may be final chance for Durdin and Carroll to demonstrate their value heading into 2025.