DARCY Fort could very well be Brisbane's modern-day Clark Keating.

The unassuming ruckman will line up on Saturday seeking his third premiership in just his 83rd career game to continue one of the more remarkable late-career revivals in recent memory.

This time two years ago, Fort was preparing himself to replace hard-luck story Oscar McInerney, who missed the Lions' first premiership under Chris Fagan after dislocating his shoulder in the preliminary final.

Since getting the better of his fancied opponent Brodie Grundy in the win over Sydney on that day, Fort has not looked back, playing 46 of the next 53 games and adding a second flag against his former club Geelong last year.

"I still consider myself extremely lucky to be part of this group and the opportunities I've had," Fort told AFL.com.au.

"That hasn't changed in the past 24 months.

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"I'm trying to enjoy it as much as I can and take every week as it comes.

"It's funny how footy works. The confidence you get from having that first opportunity. Then when I got opportunities last year, I felt like I could do more. 

"Same again this year, having won two, again feel like I can contribute to the game more and more."

Keating won a reputation as Brisbane's "Mr September" during its three-peat at the start of the century, a nod to his ability to get his troublesome body right and find his best form at the business end of the year.

Clark Keating celebrates after winning the Grand Final between Brisbane and Collingwood at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Melbourne, Australia on September 28, 2002. Picture: AFL Photos

A win in the decider would see Fort claim his third premiership in the fifth-fewest games in the AFL era.

Only Richmond's Nathan Broad (70), then-Hawk Brad Hill (75), Lions legend Jonathan Brown (76) and Tigers ruck Toby Nankervis (82) would have been quicker than Fort as he prepares for game number 83.

The 33-year-old has proven he can ruck solo on the biggest stage, then shared it with McInerney last year and will split duties with off-season recruit Sam Draper this time around.

The duo has been a legitimate 50-50 split for Fagan, sharing time in the centre and then occasionally drifting forward.

Sam Draper after the Preliminary Final between Brisbane and Hawthorn at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, on September 19, 2026. Picture: AFL Photos

"The role at the centre bounce has changed, and making sure that when we're in there, we're full of energy and giving it our all (is important)," Fort said.

"It's clear to see how much impact those wins and losses have on the final score.

"It's great to work with Drapes. I can't speak highly enough of what he's done since he's come into the team."

And Saturday presents one of the competition's ultimate rucking challenges in Fremantle's All-Australian, Luke Jackson.

Luke Jackson and Darcy Fort during Round 23 between Fremantle and Brisbane at Optus Stadium, August 15, 2025. Picture: AFL Photos

Not much fazes the 204cm Fort, although he's well aware of the Docker's unique attributes.

"You need to be paying attention the whole time," he said.

"I've had a few times I thought I was in a good position to receive the ball and I turn around and he's 50m behind me.

"It's important for me to stay switched on and make it a scrap as much as I can."