Former Carlton midfielder Jack Carroll has secured a new opportunity with St Kilda, with the Saints signing the 21-year-old as a delisted free agent ahead of the 2025 AFL season.
This development comes just weeks after Carroll was cut by the Blues, having played 15 games this year for a career tally of 21.
St Kilda has moved swiftly to add the West Australian to their list, with the delisted free agency window set to close on Friday.
Carroll becomes the third player to receive a career lifeline during this period, following in the footsteps of former Blues teammate Jack Martin, who has joined Geelong, and ex-Saint Tim Membrey, now at Collingwood.
Originally drafted with pick No. 41 in the 2020 AFL Draft, Carroll made his debut in 2022 and showed promise as a left-footed midfielder.
Despite an injury-hit 2023 season where he managed just one AFL game, the East Fremantle product bounced back with solid performances in the VFL, consistently gathering over 20 disposals and hitting the scoreboard.
This form hinted at his potential value, making him a target for several clubs looking to bolster their midfield depth.
St Kilda's move follows interest from a handful of other clubs, including GWS, who considered selecting him as a rookie during the upcoming draft.
However, the Saints have acted decisively to bring Carroll into their ranks as they look to add midfield options to complement their developing list under head coach Ross Lyon.
Carlton list manager Nick Austin expressed his gratitude for Carroll's contribution over four seasons at the Blues, where the young midfielder made strong connections with his teammates.
"Jack leaves the football club with lifelong friendships, which is a testament to the positive contribution he made to the group during his time here," Austin said in a statement after Carroll's delisting.
Originating from the Chapman Valley, Western Australia, Carroll completed his schooling at Christian Brothers College, Fremantle, and played for East Fremantle in the WAFL colts before being drafted by Carlton.
His move to St Kilda marks a new chapter in his career, as he aims to translate his VFL form into more consistent senior opportunities at Moorabbin in 2025.