Melbourne Demons Sign Pickett Longest AFL Contract

Melbourne star Kysaiah Pickett has signed a record-breaking seven-year contract extension, committing to the Demons until at least the end of 2034 and becoming the longest-contracted player in the AFL. The 24-year-old small forward, who was already under contract for two more seasons, turned down strong interest from Western Australia, including Fremantle, to remain with Melbourne. Pickett, a fan favorite known for his creativity and goal-scoring ability, leads Melbourne with 21 goals this season and has become a key player for coach Simon Goodwin. He expressed gratitude towards the club for their support and emphasized his excitement about continuing his career at the MCG, fulfilling a childhood dream. This deal surpasses Fremantle's Hayden Young's six-year contract extension and highlights Melbourne's faith in Pickett's long-term value to the team. The extension reportedly is worth around $12 million, reflecting Pickett's rising stature in the league.