The Brisbane Lions experienced tremendous success to start this century off going back-to-back-to-back (2001-03) before a slow decline that saw them lose the 04' Grand Final and only make the finals once since (2009).
In order to make its way up the ladder, Brisbane were forced to make personnel changes including many players who have gone on to lead successful careers at rival clubs.
Either seeking opportunity elsewhere or falling out of favour with the coach/board, players opted to change the Lion that was originally on their jersey, to something else.
Some trades worked out for Brisbane, but as most people are aware, a lot didn't.
Here are the top 10 players Brisbane have let go since 2003.
1. Elliot Yeo
Yeo was drafted as a tall and skinny teenager who could play in the midfield or down back. His first game came in round 9, 2012 against the Roos.
Despite performing reasonably well, he was dropped until round 16, after which he played the majority of the games that season.
Yeo showed promise in the following year, having averaged 14.5 disposals and four marks. Wanting a trade back to his home state, Yeo requested a trade to the Eagles.
He finished with 27 games and one goal at the Lions.
Yeo was highly rated at the Eagles and if it wasn't for an injury to his hand, he would've played every game in his first season back home.
He experienced a bit of a breakout year, resulting in playing every match except one (due to suspension) including the Grand Final loss to the Hawks.
His 2016 season was up-and-down as he was criticized for his consistency. The following year saw Yeo show everyone what he is capable of.
Having an average of 23 touches and ability to change the course of games, Yeo was awarded his maiden All-Australian honours, being placed on the bench.
In addition to this, he won his first John Worsfold medal as well.
In season 2018, Yeo just added to his brilliance that saw him with AA honours and a B&F around his neck.
His height, speed and strength meant he was hard to play on and that he could play anywhere on the field. Yeo didn't miss a game this season and was pivotal in the finals campaign.
Yeo didn't have the best match in the Grand Final but stood up when it mattered most. He slotted a goal on the eve of three-quarter-time from 50m which arguably gave West Coast hope they could do one better than 2015.
Yeo is now a premiership player for the Eagles but was also awarded a second All-Australian honour consecutively.
He's started 2019 in the fashion he finished 2018 and will play a big part if the Eagles are going to go back-to-back.
