AFL 2021: Jordan Dawson has played his last game for Sydney Swans

Jordan Dawson has finally made a decision on his AFL playing future and it’s not one that will please Sydney Swans fans.

Dawson (right) averaged 22.3 disposals a game in 2021. Picture: Michael Dodge / AAP

Jordan Dawson has informed the Swans of his desire to return home to South Australia, just two months after saying he was excited to remain at the club beyond 2021.

“An attractive, long-term” contract extension failed to entice Dawson into staying in Sydney and on Friday, the club confirmed the 24-year-old had played his last game in red and white.

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“Jordan has indicated to the club his desire to return to South Australia to be closer to family,” said Swans general manager of football Charlie Gardiner.

“Jordan has been weighing up this decision for some time and despite there being an attractive long-term deal on offer with the Swans, he has arrived at the decision that he would like to return home.

“The news is obviously disappointing for the club. Jordan is a young, hugely talented player who is coming off a breakout season in 2021, which only adds to the disappointment.

“Given we have only learned the news this afternoon, we will take some time to work through the club’s options leading into the trade period.”

The 2021 elimination final loss to GWS was Dawson’s last game as a Swan. Picture: Rob Blakers / Getty Images

Two months ago, Dawson told SENBreakfast he was looking forward to remaining with Sydney.

“I’m working with the club and my manager as well,” Dawson said.

“I don’t think Sydney fans should be nervous at all.

“I’m just trying to play good footy and the group we’ve got is really exciting.

“The way we’ve performed against the top teams this year has been exciting and hopefully we keep this form up across the year.”

The Swans selected Dawson with pick 56 of the 2015 national draft. He made his AFL debut in round three of the 2017 season and leaves Sydney having played 64 games across five seasons.

Dawson played every game of the Swans’ 2021 campaign and finished third in the club’s best-and-fairest count, trailing only co-captain Luke Parker and star defender Jake Lloyd.

It remains to be seen whether Dawson will pique the interest of the Adelaide Crows or the Port Adelaide Power during this year’s trade period.

Originally published as AFL 2021: Jordan Dawson has played his last game for Sydney Swans