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.
5. Lachie Henderson
Henderson was scouted as an impressive tall who could play forward and back and was picked accordingly.
No.8 in the 2007 Draft, Henderson was trialled in many positions across his two seasons at the Lions. He only managed to play 15 games at the Lions before being traded to Carlton as part of the deal that saw Fevola move to Brisbane.
Henderson played the majority of the games in seasons 2010-11 but struggled to find form as Carlton pushed their way into finals both of those years.
He then found some continuity in season 2013 where he played every game including the finals series. His effort and consistency were rewarded when he finished third in the Carlton B&F that year.
Henderson's last seasons at Carlton were derailed by injury and his desire to leave the club. By the start of 2016, he was at Geelong.
He has been an integral member in the Cats' defensive outfit but injury has once again gotten the better of him.
He has only been able to play eight games in the past two seasons.
