Sam Walsh, all in: Star commits to Carlton long-term

SAM Walsh is staying in the Navy Blue.

On the eve of the 2026 AFL season, the Carlton co-vice captain has turned his back on free agency to commit his long-term future and remain at IKON Park, in a significant show of faith in the direction of the Blues.

Walsh is the epitome of playing for the monogram: a team-first, hard-edged, selfless player who leads by example as a competitive beast.

The Navy Blue faithful can now enjoy seeing their No.18 play a leading hand in driving Carlton forward for the next eight years, as the Club steps into a new phase following a period of significant change.

The 25-year-old began his journey at the Blues after being selected with the No.1 overall pick in the 2018 AFL Draft.

His impact on the competition was immediate, winning the 2019 AFL Rising Star, 2019 AFLPA Best First-Year Player and 2020 AFLCA Best Young Player. He played in every game across his first three seasons, the last of which resulted in a fourth-place finish in the 2021 Brownlow Medal with 30 votes – tying the Carlton record at the time.

He went on to win the John Nicholls Medal and earn All-Australian honours at the end of that year, and by 2022, his outstanding leadership qualities were recognised with his appointment as co-vice captain alongside Jacob Weitering and Patrick Cripps (captain) ahead of his fourth season.

The following year, Walsh’s reputation as a big game player was solidified, proving a standout in his maiden finals series, winning the 2023 Gary Ayres Medal as the AFL’s best finals player.

With an elite average of 27.4 disposals over the course of his career, Walsh has established himself as one of the competition's top midfielders.

Renowned for his professionalism, endurance and competitiveness, the 25-year-old is now embracing his role as a central pillar in driving the Blues’ on-field performance and culture.

“I love this Club. I am a Carlton person and I couldn’t be happier to continue my career here,” Walsh said.

“This was obviously a big decision for me, but it was made so much easier because I know we are heading in the right direction. I make no secret of the fact that I want to win, and I want to win with the Carlton monogram on my chest.

“I truly believe that the key people we have here, and where our group is at right now, we are seeing a significant shift as we head into this next period of our football club, one that I know is going to be really exciting to be part of.

“When I arrived, our Club was last on the ladder. Footy isn’t a linear experience, everyone knows that, but I am all in on the next eight years and doing everything I can to help us reach the top and stay there - the day we do will mean everything to me.

“The Carlton family is like no other: the roar, the passion is unbelievable. To continue to share that with you all, I can’t wait - it is going to be special to do that together.”

Head of List Management Nick Austin said Walsh’s re-signing was a huge coup for the Club, creating real momentum on the eve of the season.

“We are absolutely delighted to secure Sam’s future in the Navy Blue. To get his signature before the AFL season even starts perfectly sums up the type of player and person he is, and the type of environment we want to be building where our people believe in what they are helping create,” Austin said.

“Sam embodies everything we value at Carlton: elite standards, humility and a relentless drive to improve. He is someone who genuinely wants to bring success to our members and supporters.

“Not only is he a brilliant player, Sam is also an exceptional leader, someone who sets the tone both on and off the field. Ever since he arrived at IKON Park, his passion for Carlton has been clear, working hard to create an environment you want to be part of.

“We can’t wait to see Sam continue in the Navy Blue and are very excited for his future here at the footy club.”

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