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.
9. Michael Rischitelli
Rischitelli debuted in style, as his only game in 2004 was a win against the Crows by 141 points (Brisbane's biggest winning margin).
Due to injury and opportunity, he struggled to break into the side until 2006 where he played 18 games for the year.
Rischitelli found it hard to be put out of the side from that year on, until he along with Daniel Bradshaw were offered up as a potential trade to secure Brendan Fevola at the end of 2009.
2010 was his best year to date, having won the B&F ahead of Jonathan Brown and Simon Black. In spite of this, Rischetelli still opted to join the new team, the Gold Coast Suns, where he added another 125 games to his tally.
Despite playing 21 games last year, Rischitelli is yet to join the Suns on the field this year and it can be assumed that the soon-to-be 33-year-old will finish his career up soon.
