Former Gold Coast player Jez McLennan has made the switch to SANFL club Port Adelaide, leaving rivals Central Districts ahead of the 2025 season following the league's new list guidelines.
The SANFL recently announced that both AFL-affiliate clubs (Adelaide and Port Adelaide) were given greater flexibility on their lists, which includes signing up to four SANFL-listed players 21 years and over.
McLennan was listed by the Suns following the 2018 National Draft, taken with Pick 23 as a highly touted intercept defender.
SEE MORE: EVERYTHING you need to know about the SANFL's new list guidelines
Unfortunately, the South Australian was unable to debut during his four years at the Queensland club and was ultimately let go at the end of 2022.
McLennan turned his attention to the South Australia state league, joining Central Districts, but has now switched from the Bulldogs to the Magpies.
However, the 24-year-old admitted that he still has plenty of belief of returning to the elite level and joining an AFL-affiliate club is a step in the right direction.
“Playing for Port Adelaide is something I've been thinking about for a little while, and I'm excited that it's now becoming a reality," McLennan said.
“I still believe I've got what it takes to be on an AFL list again, and being involved with an AFL club will give me the best possible opportunity to put my best foot forward.
“Port Adelaide is a very accomplished club that has so much history behind it in the SANFL, so I can't wait to get started and hopefully help move the group forward next year.”
Port Adelaide's Head of SANFL, Paul Stewart, was pleased to welcome McLennan to the club.
“Jez is a talented and versatile player who will add important depth and consistency to our group,” Stewart said.
“He can play back and through the midfield and has clear leadership traits, so he will provide great support to our captain and young players.
“Importantly, Jez is a quality person who will fit really well into our program.
“The new rules for AFL clubs are a welcome change to help us build a stronger list and to ultimately become more competitive while we are still participating in the SANFL.”
McLennan has proved his football prowess since being delisted by Gold Coast following the 2022 season.
He played 31 VFL and 14 NEAFL games for the Suns before returning to Centrals to play SANFL football over the last two seasons.
The former Sun earned two Fos Williams Medals while playing for the South Australian representative side against VFL and WA in 2024, as well as being named in the SANFL Team of the Year across halfback this year also.