TOM ROCKLIFF has played down speculation that he is planning to leave the Brisbane Lions before his contract expires in 2017.

The Lions skipper's future has been a topic of debate in recent weeks after it emerged Rockliff, 26, and the club have been unable to agree on the terms of a new contract extension.

Despite the parties remaining some distance apart in settling the details of a lucrative long-term deal, Rockliff said he was committed to the Lions' rebuild.

"I'm contracted until 2017. I'm captain of the footy club and I've been here since 2009," Rockliff told RSN927 radio.

"I really enjoy it up here and I'm building a house and so on.

"I can't see myself leaving."

Rockliff would attract plenty of interest, in particular from Victorian clubs, should he place himself in trade discussions.

The Lions, who continue to struggle on field, are looking to bolster their list at the end of this season by bringing in early draft picks, and Rockliff is a player who would have currency in the open market.

However, the Lions skipper says he has no plans to move and is disappointed his motives about his football future have been questioned.

"It was a good lesson for me to give the mundane answer and just say it's between me and the club," he said.

"Unfortunately we want players to be honest in interviews and give their points of view, but as soon as we do it, it just spirals out of control and unfortunately it's playing out in the media.

"That's not the way I want it and the footy club doesn't need any extra pressure and I don't want any pressure either. I want to lead the boys the best way I can."

Rockliff is confident fellow Lion Lewis Taylor will remain at the club despite reports he may be on the way out. 

"He's happy up here and he fits in really well with the group," Rockliff said.

"That's for him to decide, but all the signals that I get are that he enjoys his time up here and I can't really see him leaving."