THE Carlton Football Club has today re-signed Lochie O’Brien and Jordan Boyd for a further two years.
The extensions are a testament to the perseverance of both players who have come through their AFL journey on different paths but with equal resilience.
After six games in his previous two seasons, O’Brien showcased a breakout year in 2022 that saw him feature in 19 games – the most in his five years in the AFL.
Fighting his way into a strong midfield group, O’Brien played a strong role for the team on the wing, collecting a career-high 25 disposals in Round 2 against the Bulldogs.
Boyd has also earned a new deal after seven games at AFL level this year, beginning with his debut against Hawthorn in Round 3.
The 23-year-old stepped up in the wake of an injury-hit defensive outfit this season and had a career-best outing against Richmond in Round 14, collecting 16 disposals, 11 intercepts and laying five tackles.
Boyd was selected by the Blues at pick No.20 in the 2021 NAB AFL Mid-Season Draft, after showing his versatility at Footscray by playing both in the backline and up forward during the 2021 VFL season.
Carlton Head of List Management Nick Austin said both players had shown great upside in 2022, which is an exciting sign moving forward.
“Lochie’s work rate this year has seen him rewarded for effort with some strong on-field performances,” Austin said.
“It’s not easy solidifying your spot in that midfield group, but Lochie has proven that he can play his role and has become a vital member of the side.
“The potential that Lochie has shown this season has been really promising and he’ll continue to put in the work over the next two years to build himself into a well-rounded player at the elite level.
"[Playing Spotswood seniors] is honestly the highest I... or anyone... thought I'd ever get."
— Carlton FC (@CarltonFC) June 22, 2022
In 2018, Jordan Boyd was heading to Groovin' the Moo in the middle of a WRFL season. Now, he's playing on the big stage in Navy Blue after a whirlwind journey and loving every minute.
“Jordan’s ability to inject energy into the side is fantastic, and he stood tall on multiple occasions throughout the year.
“His dedication to his craft is impressive, and we’ve been thoroughly impressed with Jordan throughout his short time here.
“It was cruel to see Jordan’s season cut short after just breaking into the side, but he will be ready to attack pre-season and put in the work to do everything he can to earn his place in the side.”
