Port Adelaide’s leading light, Zak Butters, is now in a key position as the AFL trade period becomes imminent. The two-time dual All-Australian and three-time John Cahill Medal winner has recently had meetings with Port Adelaide powerbrokers. They even drew up a mock trade that would return him to his home state of Victoria. This decision comes on the heels of a very positive contract offer that has existed for much of 2025. For Austin, it provides a unique opportunity to re-sign long-term with the Power.
In just a few short years, Butters has established himself as one of the best talents in the league. He’ll head into his eighth season in 2026 as a restricted free agent. His equally impressive accolades include being named the first-ever 2023 Coaches’ Association Champion Player Award winner, honoring his remarkable impact on and off the field. As he considers his future, his strong family ties to Victoria weigh heavily on his mind.
Butters tries to spend every spare minute at his family’s country property in Darley, about 50 kilometers west of Melbourne. He has said that he definitely wants to return closer to his home state roots. Clubs down in Victoria are expected to band together in a competitive bid for the young star’s signature. According to reports, he would make at least $1.7 million a year for a minimum of eight seasons, making his choice a very difficult one.
Butters has kept in touch with Bulldogs captain Marcus Bontempelli through this challenging time. Reef chief Bontempelli understands how heavy Butters’ decision weighs and is optimistic that a similar outcome can be achieved.
“He’s got a big decision on his mind, and I hope we’re in the situation and the football club looks potentially like a place he could see himself,” – Marcus Bontempelli
Through all these changes, Butters has prided himself on staying true to Port Adelaide. After first extending a warm farewell salute to outgoing club great Ken Hinkley and Port Adelaide immortal Travis Boak. In reply Boak promised supporters and fellow players that he was going to remain with the Power.
“I’ll be here next year,” – Zak Butters
His bond with Hinkley runs deep, perhaps more than any player on the team. Underlying all of this is a deep appreciation for the coach’s leadership — over the long haul. Butters is never a red herring. Friends and advisers say that, in spite of the trade winds blowing harder than ever around him, he will not lose his concentration on the game.
Negotiations between Port Adelaide and Victorian suitors Collingwood and North Melbourne have escalated. The result of this trade period will have a profound effect on Butters’ career path and redefine Port Adelaide’s list for the next few seasons. His overall impact on the field is pretty freakish. Off the field, his character is just as extraordinary, which only makes every decision he’s confronted with all the more consequential.
Chris Davies, Carlton’s football chief has kept a close eye on things. He thinks that Butters’ next decision has the potential to change the course of the team for years to come. The prospect of a longer-term arrangement at Carlton, or another Victorian club, could be tempting.
The entire AFL community is keeping a watchful eye on Zak Butters as he enters this pivotal crossroad in his burgeoning career. Family ties are pulling him home, to be welcomed there by a king’s ransom in cash from Port Adelaide. The decision he makes will have effects for generations.
