In a stunning display of loyalty, Brisbane Lions dynamo Cam Rayner has turned his back on the lure of free agency, inking a massive 7-year contract extension that will see him don the maroon, blue and gold until at least 2031. The deal, announced on the heels of Brisbane’s drought-breaking premiership triumph, underscores Rayner’s unwavering commitment to the club that selected him with the coveted No. 1 pick in the 2017 AFL draft.
Chasing Greatness
Rayner, a dynamic forward with the rare ability to impose himself in the midfield, has made no secret of his burning desire to etch his name into AFL folklore. Fresh off a stellar 2024 campaign that saw him boot 31 goals and play a pivotal role in Brisbane’s finals charge, the 25-year-old is determined to spearhead a Lions dynasty.
“We are back at the top of the mountain where we belong, and I hope that we can stay there for as long as we can,” Rayner declared, his voice brimming with conviction.
Cam Rayner, Brisbane Lions
The sentiment is shared by Brisbane’s hierarchy, with football boss Danny Daly hailing Rayner as a cornerstone of the club’s future. “Cam is an exceptionally talented player who has shown in his time with us how important he is on and off the field,” Daly gushed, unable to contain his elation.
A Far Cry From the ‘Go Home Five’
Rayner’s monumental pledge stands in stark contrast to the tumultuous exodus that plagued Brisbane just over a decade ago. In 2013, the club was left reeling when five homesick youngsters – cruelly dubbed the ‘Go Home Five’ – simultaneously sought trades to Victorian teams. The scars of that traumatic period have long since healed, with a new generation of Lions now fiercely devoted to the cause.
Rayner’s signature follows the lead of fellow stars Hugh McCluggage, Harris Andrews, Jarrod Berry, and Charlie Cameron, all of whom recently penned long-term deals to remain in the Sunshine State. The quintet form the backbone of a Brisbane outfit hell-bent on establishing itself as the dominant force of the competition.
Keeping the Band Together
With Rayner’s future secured, attention now turns to locking away the remainder of Brisbane’s premiership core. Defenders Brandon Starcevich and Callum Ah Chee, along with emerging talents Kai Lohmann and Logan Morris, headline a crop of Lions set to come out of contract at the end of 2025.
The challenge for Brisbane will be to balance the books while ensuring its embarrassment of on-field riches remains intact. The Lions’ recent success has been built on the back of astute drafting and shrewd list management – a formula the club will need to replicate if it is to keep its championship window open.
The Rayner Effect
For now, though, Lions fans will be content to bask in the afterglow of Rayner’s recommitment. The explosive matchwinner has become a beloved figure at the Gabba, his infectious energy and penchant for the spectacular endearing him to the Brisbane faithful.
“I love this club from top to bottom, whether it’s the staff or players, everyone is so lovely and has made my journey so far as smooth and easy as it can be,” Rayner gushed, his affection for the Lions palpable.
Cam Rayner, Brisbane Lions
If Rayner can maintain his upward trajectory, there is no telling what heights he and his teammates may scale. With a premiership already in tow and a roster brimming with sublimely gifted footballers entering the prime of their careers, Brisbane appears poised to leave an indelible mark on the AFL landscape.
As the Lions embark on their quest for back-to-back flags, one thing is certain: Cam Rayner will be leading the charge, a maroon, blue and gold beacon of brilliance, ready to illuminate the game’s grandest stage. For the boy from Ararat, destiny awaits.
