Contracted Gold Coast flanker Rory Atkins is said to be "looking for opportunities elsewhere" on the open market in 2024.
Atkins joined the Suns as a free agent on a five-year deal in 2020, crossing from Adelaide after eight years in South Australia.
The 30-year-old has played just 37 games during his four years so far on the Gold Coast, 17 of which came last year, with Atkins making just three appearances in 2024.
While he was placed on the outer of Damien Hardwick's best side, Atkins flourished in the VFL to finish second in the J.J. Liston Trophy count with 22 votes and slotted into half-back in the VFL Team of the Year, averaging 34.3 disposals, 10.3 marks and 7.3 rebound 50s per game in the league this year.
Out-of-favour but in good form, Atkins is open to leaving the Suns come next month's trade period in the hope of finding better opportunities at a third club, per AFL.com.au'sย Cal Twomey.
While no notable suitors have emerged for Atkins' signature, the defender's situation is a "wait and see".
"Rory Atkins, contracted for next year, but looking for opportunities elsewhere, having been really consistent at VFL level," Twomey toldย Gettable.ย
"Wait and see if anyone takes a look at him, he's already been at two clubs now."
The Suns are bracing for a busy off-season of player movement, with Richmond's Dan Rioli and retired teammate Dustin Martin both pursuing moves to reunite with Hardwick.
Gold Coast have also been linked to Adelaide free agent Elliott Himmelberg, while Suns tall Jack Lukosius could be heading the other way as he weighs up a potential return to his home state.
The Queensland club has also delisted Sandy Brock,ย Sam Day,ย Oskar Faulkhead, Darcy MacPherson,ย Jack Mahony,ย Will Rowlands and James Tsitas following their 2024 season, while Brandon Ellis has announced his retirement.
Levi Casboult,ย Sean Lemmens,ย Hewego Paul Oea,ย Alex Sexton and David Swallow remain without deals for the 2025 season.
