The AFL has quietly implemented a new rule requiring club boards and CEOs to sign off on contracts of six years or longer. This 'Buddy Franklin' rule aims to ensure clubs take full financial responsibility for these lengthy commitments, especially amid concerns about concussion and the risks associated with long-term contracts. The rule, which applies to existing and future contracts, requires a joint letter from the club president and CEO confirming their financial commitment and acceptance of associated risks.
In an attempt to slow the massive growth in super-long contracts for players, the AFL quietly introduced what could be called “the Buddy Franklin” rule – forcing club boards and chief executives to sign off on contracts of six years or longer.
But the rule, which is a less heated version of how the AFL dealt with Lance Franklin’s nine-year, $10 million deal in 2013, has not deterred clubs from offering these longer-term deals, despite the concerns about concussion and the risks clubs take, as evident in the Angus Brayshaw payout with years remaining on his contract.
Fremantle, Carlton and Collingwood together account for 10 of the 27 existing individual contracts that would require board approval. Contracts have to be approved by the AFL and, under this rule, the league will not allow the contract to be registered if the board does not sign off. Many of the players with deals to 2030 or beyond have either been free agents or have changed clubs, as with Josh Battle – the only Hawk in this category.
AFL Player Contracts Financial Responsibility Concussion Risks Club Governance
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