VETERAN defender Harry Cunningham has been delisted by Sydney but will be picked up by Adelaide in the upcoming rookie draft.

The Swans put a one-year deal on the table for Cunningham but he chose instead to head to the Crows where he will sign a two-year contract with the potential to move into a coaching role after his playing career finishes.

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Cunningham was originally selected with pick 93 in the 2011 rookie draft and has played 233 games with Sydney.

A strong performance in the Swans' qualifying final demolition of Brisbane showed he still had plenty to offer the club going forward, but the longer-term security of the Adelaide deal won him over.

"I'm incredibly grateful to the Swans for giving me the opportunity to live out my dream. Coming to the club as a 17-year-old from Wagga, I never imagined I'd still be here 15 years later," Cunningham said on Friday.

"I've been lucky enough to experience some amazing highlights in the red and white, from big finals and packed-out SCG's to playing alongside some incredible players.

"More than anything, it’s the people and friendships I'll cherish most. I’m so grateful to 'Horse' (John Longmire) and 'Coxy' (Dean Cox) for their guidance, support and friendship over the years, as well as everyone across the club who has been part of my journey. I’m lucky to be leaving with mates I know will be a part of my life long after footy.

"I'm incredibly proud to have been part of the Swans for 15 years. The club will always hold a special place in my heart and be a part of my family.

"I'm really excited about the next chapter of my footy career with Adelaide and looking forward to getting to work."

Sydney thanked Cunningham for his service.

"Since arriving at the footy club, Harry has been one of the most respected and popular members of the playing group where you couldn't find a bad word said about him," head of list strategy and player personnel, Chris Keane  said.

"We had an offer on the table for Harry, but we respect and understand his decision to continue his career at the Crows under a longer contract and for family reasons.

"As per Harry’s wishes, we will delist him so he can join the Crows through the rookie draft in November.

"He will always be a much-loved person and life member at the Sydney Swans. We wish Harry, his wife Chelsea and daughter Luella well in the future."