THE WESTERN Bulldogs have finally snagged the key defender they need, securing Adelaide backman Jordon Butts as an unrestricted free agent.
The Bulldogs are set for a bumper trade period headlined by working through a deal for Port Adelaide superstar Zak Butters, ahead of a 2027 season where the club will have high expectations.
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After seeing off Carlton's advances to keep hold of defender Buku Khamis, the Bulldogs have filled a major area of need by adding 26-year-old Butts, as first reported by AFL.com.au on Saturday morning.
Adelaide will receive a band three compensation selection, currently pick No.33, in return.
The moves on Friday of Toby Greene, Lachie Neale and Joel Amartey also triggered band three compensation, meaning the second round of the draft currently has 22 picks.
"Jordon is a talented and competitive key defender who has proven he can negate and intercept against the best key forwards in the competition," Bulldogs list boss Michael Regan said in a statement on Saturday.
"His skill-set complements our existing backline, and as a high-quality footballer and person, he'll add to our culture while giving himself and our defensive group the best chance to flourish."
Butts played 94 games for the Crows across eight seasons, and in 2026 averaged 11 touches, three intercept marks and five spoils a match.
"I'm motivated to come into the club and make a difference, continuing to grow as a player and help the team wherever possible, working alongside some really talented individuals," he said.
"There is a lot of excitement and optimism around the club at the moment and I couldn't be more pleased to be a part of it as we chase success together."
Butts has had several injury setbacks throughout his career, but was generally an important part of Adelaide's defence.
"Jordon has committed eight years of his life to the Adelaide Football Club and that's something we'll forever be grateful for," Crows list boss Jarryd Roughead said in a statement.
"He's been an ever-reliable teammate and someone we'll certainly miss having at the club.
"We wish him all the best for his next chapter."
