Ben McKay makes decision on contract future amid rampant speculation

One of the AFL’s biggest stars has finally made a call on where his future lies, and the decision will turn the footy world on its head.

Daanyal Saeed

@daanysaeed

less than 2 min read

September 22, 2023 - 3:12PM

Ben McKay of the Kangaroos in action during the 2023 AFL Round 12 match between the Essendon Bombers and the North Melbourne Kangaroos at Marvel Stadium on June 4, 2023 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

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Ben McKay has informed North Melbourne he intends to pursue free agency, and will choose Essendon as his club of choice.

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McKay is a restricted free agent, meaning that the Kangaroos are able to match any bids that may come in for him.

Having taken on pitches from Hawthorn, Essendon and Sydney in recent weeks, with the Hawks the last to drop out of the race, the 25-year-old defensive stalwart will add to the stocks of a group coached by the man who drafted him into the league in the first place, Brad Scott.

Ben McKay is set to depart Arden St after seven years. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

North Melbourne list manager Brady Rawlings said in a statement that the club would now consider its next moves.

“We understand that free agency is part of football,” Rawlings said.

“Given Ben is a restricted free agent, we have the option to match any contract that’s on offer to him.

“The official start of the free agency period is still a couple of weeks away so we’ve got time to assess our options and make a decision in the best interests of the North Melbourne Football Club.”

McKay was drafted to North Melbourne with their first pick, the 21st overall in the 2015 draft.

He made his debut in a 51-point win against Brisbane in round 23 of the 2017 season and has since played 71 games for the club.

More to come.