The Brisbane Lions confirm trio Rhys Mathieson, Blake Coleman and Darryl McDowell-White Junior will not be offered contracts for 2024.
Mathieson, drafted to the Lions from the Geelong Falcons with pick 39 in the 2015 NAB AFL Draft, departs the Club after 72 games across eight seasons.
Known affectionately as ‘Beast Mode’, the 26-year-old was known for his ability to win the contested ball.
Despite playing 10 games in 2022 - including three finals, Mathieson was unable to break into the Lions team at AFL level in 2023.
Coleman arrived at The Gabba as an exciting prospect with the Club drafting the Brisbane Lions Academy player with its first pick in the 2020 draft.
The 21-year-old forward, who is the younger brother of Lions defender Keidean, showed promise at VFL level but was unable to make his AFL debut in his three seasons.
McDowell-White Junior spent the 2023 season with the Lions after being signed as a Category B Rookie.
The 26-year-old, son of Lions triple premiership player Darryl White, showcased some of his natural talent in the VFL though was not able to earn AFL selection.
Brisbane Lions General Manager Football, Danny Daly said the Club appreciated the service all three players have given.
“Rhys has really ridden the highs and lows since he joined the Lions and definitely helped play a role in assisting the Club to rise up the ladder,” Daly said.
“He has been a much-loved member of the Club and popular with our fans due to the type of person he has been on and off the field and we are grateful for his time here.
“Blake and DJ are two players who had some real talent, but unfortunately due to the Club having so many strong forwards at AFL level they were not able to push their way into the team.
“The Club would like to thank all three players for their contribution to the Brisbane Lions and we wish them and their families all the best for the future.”
The Brisbane Lions have now completed their list changes for 2023 which also included the retirements of Marcus Adams, Daniel Rich and Nakia Cockatoo.
