After a phenomenal season, breakout superstar Zak Butters has signed a two-year contract extension with Port Adelaide. The livewire midfielder will now be at the club until the end of 2026, taking him to free agency.
Butters' 2023 campaign was outstanding - the 23-year-old recorded career highs across the board, with disposals and goals being the major highlight.
Taken at Pick 12 in the 2018 draft alongside teammate Connor Rozee, Butters has been a staple in Ken Hinkley's side since his debut. Despite suffering a hefty leg injury in 2021, Butters immediately bounced back and has played consistently ever since.
The midfielder took his game to another level last season, finishing equal fourth in Brownlow Medal voting, tied with Sydney's Errol Gulden.
Additionally, the young star claimed the AFL Coaches' Award, ahead of Brownlow medallist Lachie Neale and AFLPA Player of the Year Marcus Bontempelli. Unsurprisingly, Butters took home the John Cahill Medal at Port Adelaide, earning recognition as the club's best and fairest.
In a club statement, Butters expressed his delight after inking the new deal to keep him at Alberton.
“I'm rapt to be staying on here at Port Adelaide for at least the next three seasons,” Butters said.
“It was an easy decision in the end. This club gave me my opportunity to play the game I love at the highest level and I want to repay their faith."
Power List Manager Jason Cripps had nothing but praise for Butters after his extension.
“Zak is fast emerging as one of the elite midfielders in the competition and we are thrilled that he has extended his contract until at least the end of 2026,” said Cripps.
“Zak is a key component within our young midfield group that will be very exciting to watch for our members and supporters in the coming years."
Port Adelaide will be looking to make up for a disappointing finals campaign in 2023 as they look towards 2024 with excitement.