The Brisbane Lions have informed Ely Smith, Mitch Cox & Deividas Uosis that they will not be offered new contracts with the Club for the 2023 season.

Smith, the Lions first pick at the 2018 draft, spent his first year at the Club playing in the undefeated NEAFL side where he displayed strong ball-winning ability.

An unfortunate run of injuries meant the big-bodied midfielder never got his chance at AFL level.

Cox was a standout in the VFL in 2021, which put the midfielder on the Lions radar and then earned an invitation to trial with the Club.

Making the move to Brisbane from Melbourne paid off for the 25-year-old, as he was put on the Club’s rookie list via the SSP (Supplemental Selection Period).

Unfortunately, Cox was unable to break into the Lions’ midfield.

Lithuanian-born Uosis arrived at The Gabba in 2020 as a Category B Rookie out of Ireland where he had played Gaelic football.

The 22-year-old showed great commitment after moving to the other side of the world during the pandemic in a bid to play AFL football.

“It’s an unfortunate time of year when changes must be made due to pressure for list spots,” said Brisbane Lions General Manager Football, Danny Daly.

“All three are extremely hard-working individuals who represented themselves with great professionalism and diligence during their time at the Club.

“We thank them for their service and wish them all the best for the future.”