VFL star getting prepared in case second AFL chance comes his way

Southport co-captain Brayden Crossley would absolutely jump at another AFL opportunity if it came his way.

The 25-year-old ruckman has starred in the VFL for the Sharks across the last few seasons, coinciding with the premiership in 2023 and a Grand Final appearance this year.

Delisted by the Gold Coast Suns in 2019 after an irregular drugs test on a NEAFL match day, Crossley says he would love another chance at the elite level if an AFL club was to show any interest.

“Yeah, absolutely,” Crossley said when asked on AFL Trade Radio if he’d consider another AFL chance.

“It’s really cool that you guys (Damian Barrett and Brad Johnson) and a few other people have been talking about me and throwing my name in the ring.

“Obviously I’m not playing state league level for the money because there’s not much in the state leagues at the moment.

“It’s to play at the highest level that I possibly can for as long as I can. Obviously AFL is the next step after that and my hat being thrown in the ring is really cool.

“If something came knocking and clubs were calling me asking if I’m ready to step up then absolutely I would take it with two hands. I’d absolutely love it.”

Crossley, who is also a disability support worker at Being Mentors, says as yet there has been no contact forthcoming.

He continues to hold hope as AFL clubs work on their 2025 list builds in the middle of the trade period and will prepare himself just in case it falls that way.

“I haven’t had anyone reach out just yet,” he added.

“In my position and being the player I am I dare say a few teams would be waiting to see how this trade period plays out. They’d be seeing what depth they can get from other clubs.

“Maybe the calls will start coming then, but I’m certainly not sitting on my palms waiting for that. I’m back training already and ready to step up if it’s required that I’m at (an AFL) pre-season in three or four weeks’ time.

“I’m getting prepared for that if that’s the case because obviously this is a long couple of weeks and list managers can change their mind quite quickly.

“I would absolutely love the opportunity to get on a list again.”

Crossley played 22 games in the VFL in 2024, averaging 43 hit-outs, 14 disposals and six tackles while kicking 12 goals.

He was initially drafted by the Suns with Pick 52 in the 2017 draft and played 10 AFL games for the club.