Former North Melbourne-listed ruckman and No.1 Mid-Season Draft selection Jacob Edwards has linked up with Victorian local side Cheltenham for the 2024 season.
Edwards was delisted by the Kangaroos this off-season after two-and-a-half years at Arden Street, with the Beaumaris junior joining the AFL club midway through the 2021 season as the first overall pick at the Mid-Season Draft.
The 20-year-old wouldn't play a game at AFL level but would appear in 34 games for the Roos' reserves at VFL level, with early development requirements and injuries impacting his level of availability.
The 205cm ruck-forward has now turned to the grassroots level for next year, joining his brother Harry in heading to Cheltenham.
"We are excited to announce the signings of the Edwards Brothers," a club post read.
"Jacob joins us after spending the last 2.5 years on North Melbourne's AFL list after being taken as the number 1 pick in the 2021 mid-season draft.
"With a few good mates already playing at JBO he is looking forward to the season ahead and having the fun put back into footy. At 205 cms, our onballers are looking forward to working with him.
"Harry joins us after playing the last few seasons at Mordialloc. A goal kicking forward who can do exciting things, Harry is looking forward to joining the Rosellas and slotting into our forward line and also the opportunity to play with his brother."
Cheltenham took out the Southern Football Netball League Division 1 premiership this year after a 17-1 home and away season record. The Roosters would go on to claim a three-point win over Cranbourne in the grand final to clinch the flag.