The 264-game veteran has recovered well from post-season ankle surgery and says his body is up for the challenge of more senior football.
"I'm feeling good," Scotland said. "I’m off the crutches now, the surgeon is happy with it and so am I, so I’m looking forward to the year ahead.”
There is a slight snag in the path before Scotland can don the navy blue again. The 33-year-old will be delisted by Carlton today, when the Club submits its first list lodgement to the AFL.
The Blues will then redraft Scotland as a Nominated Rookie, meaning he can still play in every game next season.
The delisting and redrafting will ensure Carlton can still have three picks in next month’s National Draft.
Scotland isn't concerned about the process.
“It’s for the good of the Club,” Scotland said.
“The Club had offered me a gig as a development coach if I didn't play on, so I really thought through that, but it came down to the fact that you're a long time retired.
“I still feel I’ve got some footy left in me and I want to give it another crack.”
Carlton's GM-Football Operations Andrew McKay says the Club is thrilled that Scotland wants to play on.
"It's fantastic that Heath has decided to pull the boots on again for Carlton," McKay said. "We look forward to him having another solid year for us."
