Brisbane Lions re-sign Irish duo, commit to redrafting veteran forward

The Brisbane Lions confirm the Club has finalised its list changes ahead of next month’s draft.

Irish duo Conor McKenna and Darragh Joyce have both recommitted for 2026 by signing new one-year deals.

While the Club advises it will delist veteran forward Lincoln McCarthy, though it is committed to selecting him in the upcoming rookie draft.

Both McKenna and Joyce head into their fourth season with the Lions after arriving from Essendon and St Kilda respectively.

McKenna, a Lions 2024 premiership player who also played in the losing 2023 Grand Final, will look to add to his 49 games with the Club.

“It’s great to re-sign for 2026 and I’m really looking to another big season,” The 29-year-old said.

“I’ve loved my three years at the club so far, both on and off the field, which made it an easy decision to stay on.

“I’ve also been lucky enough to play in a premiership with the Club, which was one of the main reasons I wanted to come to the Lions to begin with, and hopefully we can experience further success.”

Fellow Irishman Joyce also arrived at Brighton Homes Arena in 2023, with the key defender joining the Lions via the AFL’s pre-season supplementary signing period.

Joyce played 13 games in six seasons with the Saints and has already made 13 appearances in just three years with the Lions.

The 28-year-old said he was as motivated as ever to continue his career.

“It feels great to re-sign because it is amazing just to be part of this special group,” Joyce said.

“I love the group, love the boys and rocking up to the club every day, so it was an easy decision to re-sign as I am not ready to give up those locker room vibes just yet.

“As a Club we would love to get back to the finals again and personally I would love to get a taste of that too.”

Brisbane Lions General Manager Football, Danny Daly spoke on the duo re-signing with the Club.

“Both Conor and Darragh continue to work hard, and their new contract is due reward for their effort,” Daly said.

“They are determined to put in a solid preseason and continue to push for AFL selection in 2026 which we look forward to.”