Jobaaj Stories
Kysaiah Pickett Set for Record AFL Deal; Port Confident on Butters
AFL star Kysaiah Pickett is at the centre of massive trade whispers, with a potential $5 million deal that could make him the highest-paid small forward in league history. Meanwhile, Port Adelaide is standing firm on its commitment to keeping Zak Butters, despite interest from rival clubs.
Kysaiah Pickett Poised for Groundbreaking Contract
Kysaiah Pickett, the 2021 premiership forward, is reportedly on track to sign a landmark deal—regardless of whether he stays at Melbourne or heads to a new club. AFL Media’s Callum Twomey revealed on Gettable that the 23-year-old is expected to earn more than a million dollars per year in his next contract.
Pickett is under contract until 2027, but his future is already a hot topic. Fremantle is reportedly interested, and Pickett recently changed agents to Anthony Van Der Wielen, who is based in Western Australia and represents several Dockers players.
“Pickett’s next contract could be the biggest in small forward history—five years, over five million dollars,” said Twomey.
Pickett’s performance against Fremantle last Saturday only fueled speculation. He delivered five goals and 24 disposals at the MCG, leading Melbourne to its first win of 2025.
Port Adelaide Focused on Retaining Zak Butters
While Pickett’s contract talks dominate headlines, Port Adelaide is also working behind the scenes to lock in midfielder Zak Butters, who becomes a free agent in 2026.
Butters has expressed his love for South Australia and the club but hasn’t rushed into making any future decisions.
“Zak means a lot to the team, and we believe he feels the same way,” said Port CEO Matthew Richardson. “We’re confident things will take care of themselves.”
Richardson also praised Port’s list management team, which is preparing to counter potential offers from Victorian clubs targeting Butters and rising defender Miles Bergman.
