Oscar McDonald will make a return to the AFL with his third club, securing a two-year contract with Fremantle despite spending the 2023 season out of the league.
The 27-year-old began his career at Melbourne and played 81 games for the club.
Delisted after the 2020 season, he was immediately picked up by Carlton but made just five appearances across two years as injuries played their part.
Analysis, local footy and the biggest moments, Seven and 7plus are the home of footy shows for every fan. Stream them all for free on 7plus >>
McDonald went back to the VFL for 2023 and impressed with Williamstown, named fullback in the team of the year.
His efforts with the standalone side sparked interest from the Dockers as they sought defensive help following Joel Hamling’s move to Sydney.
Oscar McDonald (middle) will make a return to the AFL in 2024. Credit: AAP
Hamling has been struck down by injury in recent years and took advantage of his rights as an out-of-contract and previously delisted free agent to seek a fresh start with the Swans.
The surprise move left Fremantle scrambling but they are now clearly content with McDonald given he has signed two-year deal.
“He has a big, mature body (196cm and 100kg), was very good in one on one contests and is moving better than ever,” Dockers list boss David Walls said.
“Oscar played 20 VFL games in 2023, as well as practice matches, so is coming off a full season where he looked a level above the VFL competition.”
McDonald’s experience shapes the Victorian as a wildcard to make Fremantle’s best 22 next year.
The Dockers are also looking to add Jeremy Sharp after he was delisted by Gold Coast, 12 months after failed trade talks with Fremantle.
Jeremy Sharp won the VFL grand final with the Suns this year. Credit: Getty Images)
The wingman played 23 games in his first three seasons with the Suns but did not make an appearance in 2023.
Fremantle’s depth for next season already took a hit when Josh Corbett was ruled out for the entire campaign with a hip injury.
He will undergo surgery in late November.
Corbett played five games for the Dockers this year after crossing from Gold Coast.
– with AAP
AFL premiership player learns fate in tough contract call
New details emerge of Sam Newman and Ricky Nixon punch-up
If you’d like to view this content, please adjust your Cookie Settings.
To find out more about how we use cookies, please see our Cookie Guide.