Several strong performances for the Brisbane Lions VFL team in 2022 saw Shadeau Brain pre-selected by the Club as a Category B Rookie ahead of the 2023 season. Brain, a Brisbane Lions Academy product who impressed at VFL level throughout the year, being used across the backline in a new role in 2025. His strong closing speed, willingness to defend and bounce out of half-back were all on display last season as he continues to develop ahead of season 2026.
