Mega payday: Has young star's contract call cost him millions?

Adelaide key forward Riley Thilthorpe’s standout performance against St Kilda has sparked debate over the financial implications of his early contract decision.

The Adelaide star signed a three-year contract extension last year in August, locking him in with the Crows until the end of 2028.

Speaking on SEN’s Sportsday, Kane Cornes suggested that Thilthorpe may have missed out on a massive payday by committing to the Crows too soon.

“I don’t think any player in the history of the game has cost themselves more money by signing a contract early than Riley Thilthorpe,” Cornes said.

His dominant display against the Saints, where he booted three goals, has only reinforced his growing value.

“Can you imagine what St Kilda would be prepared to offer Riley Thilthorpe right now?” Cornes added.

Veteran analyst Gerard Healy agreed, predicting that the young key forward is on the verge of something special.

“He could be All-Australian by the end of the year,” Healy said.

With Thilthorpe’s stock continuing to rise, the Crows will be counting themselves lucky to have secured his signature before rival clubs could come knocking with irresistible offers.