Zak Butters reveals Port Adelaide exit plans while joining Bulldogs

Zak Butters was unveiled as a Western Bulldogs player on October 11, 2026, following a high-profile move from Port Adelaide. The 26-year-old midfielder considered making his departure public during the ongoing season but decided against it, believing the AFL isn’t ready for such transparency. In an exclusive interview, Butters discussed his decision-making process, indicating that he was set on leaving Port after the 2026 campaign. His signing with the Bulldogs is on a nine-year deal worth $2 million per season, as the club hopes to position themselves as top-four contenders in 2027, aided by Butters and the return of forward Sam Darcy.

• 4:05 AMAFL — New Bulldog considered making Port exit public in-season