Tom Barrass, a star defender from the West Coast, has refuted rumors that he would leave the Eagles, saying he plans to stay with just one team.
The 28-year-old was enthusiastic about the future and full of praise for his club’s young players as he spoke with the media in Perth on Wednesday afternoon.
He is fully dedicated to returning the blue and gold to their former grandeur.
“I believe we can succeed, but I think we still have some progress to make before we can be called a good team.”
“I think success is much closer if we work as a team than most people probably realize.”
Despite having a long-term commitment to the team, Barrass’ remarks will calm Eagles supporters since his contract is set to expire at the end of 2027.
After 2024, rival teams with weaknesses in their defensive line, such Collingwood and the Western Bulldogs, were mentioned as possible suitors for the 197-cm tall player.
Barrass was selected by the Eagles with Pick 43 in the 2013 draft, and he debuted in Round 17 of the 2015 draft, almost two years later.
Barrass, a best-and-fairest winner in 2022 and a premiership player from the club’s most recent flag in 2018, has been a crucial member of the team for almost a decade.
Recently, longtime teammate Elliot Yeo re-signed with the team for a three-year contract, which now ends at the same time as Barrass’.
Young quartet Jack Williams, Harvey Johnston, Tyrell Dewar, and Clay Hall also showed their faith in Adam Simpson’s list earlier today by extending their commitment to the club.
This Sunday at Optus Stadium, the Eagles take on Hawthorn. Kickoff is at 4:40 PM AEST.
