FREMANTLE has axed stalwart Bailey Banfield among four delistings at the conclusion of its season.
Banfield, Sam Sturt, Ollie Murphy and Ryda Luke haven't been offered contracts for next year.
WHO'S CALLED IT QUITS 2026's retirements and delistings
The 28-year-old Banfield played 119 games for the Dockers, but only one this year.
Banfield's manager Andrew McDougall told Continental Tyres AFL Trade Radio last week that the utility had interest from two Victorian clubs.
Sturt played 31 games for the Dockers amid a difficult run with injuries, while Murphy and Luke were untried at AFL level.
"These decisions are never easy, particularly when you've had a player like Bailey who's been at the club for just under 10 years," Fremantle executive general manager of football Joe Brierty said.
"His contribution has had an impact not only on the field, but also off it and around the club. It culminated in him receiving the Jim Stynes Community Leadership Award at the Brownlow Medal count last week.
"Bailey's passion and his work in the community have had an impact on all of our players and staff.
"His resilience and determination to get the most out of himself on the football field, playing a variety of roles during his time at Fremantle, is something our coaching staff has always admired.
"He obviously has an exciting journey ahead, and we wish Bailey and his wife, Julia, all the best as they plan for the arrival of their first child.
"We also wish Bailey all the best with any opportunities that may open up within the AFL.
"Sam has shown great resilience since being drafted, but unfortunately his body has failed him at different times.
"Every time Sam has faced adversity, he's met it with the highest level of professionalism and dedication, doing the best he possibly can to rehab his body.
"After the ACL injury last year, he did all the work he possibly could to get back to football, and we were so proud when he returned to play with Peel late this season.
"Unfortunately, his body wasn't able to hold up to the rigours of the game.
"Sam's been a highly respected and valued teammate across our football program, and we know he'll be successful in any future endeavours he puts his mind to."
The quartet join the retired Sam Switkowski in Fremantle's departures after its run to the Grand Final.
