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Weitering signs extension to stay in AFL's Blue heaven

3 minute read

All-Australian defender Jacob Weitering has shown his determination to be a one-club player by signing a long-term contract extension with Carlton.

Jacob Weitering.
Jacob Weitering. Picture: Cameron Spencer/Getty Images

Jacob Weitering is the latest AFL key position player to sign a long-term deal, committing to Carlton until the end of 2031.

The All-Australian defender joins St Kilda key forward Max King and Richmond tall utility Noah Balta, who have also committed to their clubs into the next decade.

While none of those players were in danger of leaving, their bumper deals come ahead of Tasmania joining the AFL in 2028.

The Blues vice-captain, one of their most important players, surprisingly had to wait until this season for his first All-Australian selection.

The 26-year-old is arguably the AFL's best key defender and has won two club best and fairest awards.

Weitering, the 2015 No.1 draft pick, has played 181 games for Carlton.

"Carlton made a significant investment in me in 2015, and I couldn't imagine playing football anywhere else," he said.

"I have always wanted to be a one-club player, and I feel like I have grown up alongside my teammates in my nine years here.

"When I first started at the club, we went through some tough times, but I couldn't be more confident in the stability and direction of the football club as we head into the coming years."

After making a preliminary final last year, the Blues struggling with injuries and lost their elimination final to premiers Brisbane.

Carlton's list management boss Nick Austin said the club was thrilled to have Weitering re-sign.

"He is one of the most respected defenders in the competition ... (and) to see him extend with still a year on his contract shows the type of loyal person he is," Austin said.

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