Carlton defender Adam Saad has extended his time at the Blues by one year, adding another year to his contract to remain a Blue until the end of 2026.

The extra season will see Saad play a sixth season at his third club after playing for three years at both Gold Coast and Essendon respectively.

Saad played in 18 matches in 2024, missing a five-week block due to a hamstring injury suffered against the Crows in Round 5.

The 30-year-old remains a pivotal part of Carlton's premiership aspirations, offering line-breaking pace and surgical kicks to set the Blues' attack in motion.

His penetrating punts have been adored by Carlton fans since his arrival, earning the 'woof' cry by supporters, following in the footsteps of previous damaging kickers Val Perovic and Ang Christou.

Saad averaged 18.8 disposals and 3.8 rebound 50s per game in 2024, aiding in the Blues' second consecutive finals berth.

Carlton list boss Nick Austin said the club is delighted to retain Saad for another year.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JULY 18: Adam Saad of the Blues in action during the 2021 AFL Round 18 match between the Collingwood Magpies and the Carlton Blues at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on July 18, 2021 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

"We are so pleased to see Adam continue his career at Carlton," Austin said.

"He is an extremely consistent and reliable figure in our defensive line, a person who we know will go out and play their role week in and week out.

"Since joining the Club, he continues to be one of the best small defenders in the league: with his sharp ball use and outstanding kicking ability, combined with his speed, he is a true asset to our side.

"Not only is he a well-regarded figure with Carlton fans but he also plays a special role with the wider public with his significant community initiatives. We are very fortunate to have someone of his character at Carlton."

โ€œTo get this done well before the season is a great result and a show of faith from both parties: we look forward to watching Adam in the Navy Blue for at least the next two seasons."

Fit and firing ahead of the 2025 season, Saad is anticipated to line up for the Blues in their opening clash against Richmond in Round 1, on Thursday, March 13.