Isaac Cumming Moves to Adelaide Crows in AFL Free Agency

Isaac Cumming, formerly of Greater Western Sydney Giants, has confirmed his move to the Adelaide Crows as a free agent, it was announced on Friday. The 26-year-old defender struggled with limited playtime this season due to injuries, appearing in just six senior games. Both Adelaide Crows and Port Adelaide expressed interest in acquiring Cumming, but he ultimately chose the Crows following Greater Western Sydney’s semi-final loss to Brisbane.

Cumming, who has played a total of 81 games since being drafted 20th in the 2016 AFL Draft, managed to establish himself as a key player during the 2021 to 2023 seasons. However, his recent struggles with a pre-season calf injury followed by a hamstring injury limited his appearances this year. He made a return for the finals after missing the last five games of GWS’s home and away season due to another hamstring strain.

Adelaide Crows won the rights to Cumming without letting go of any of their players since he entered as an unrestricted free agent. However, Greater Western Sydney Giants secured a first-round draft pick, currently numbered at 21, as compensation, adding to their already strong draft position with picks 15, 16, and 21.

Justin Reid, Adelaide’s General Manager of List Management and Strategy, expressed his excitement about Cumming’s move to the club, citing his versatility and leadership qualities. “We are obviously thrilled that Isaac has decided to join our club and he is a significant addition to our list,” Reid stated. “He brings experience and leadership to our team which will help us improve so we are looking forward to having him on board.”

Jason McCartney, Executive General Manager of Football at the Giants, acknowledged the nature of the industry in dealing with player transfers and expressed satisfaction with their draft situation. “You never like to see good people leave the club, but that’s the nature of the industry,” McCartney remarked. “The compensation of a third first-round selection for Isaac’s departure further bolsters our capital to work with this off-season,” he added.

This development positions the Adelaide Crows strategically better for the upcoming AFL season, while the Giants look forward to strengthening their team through the draft process.