AFL Now: Luke Jackson commits to Fremantle after reported interest in returning to Melbourne
Luke Jackson has knocked down reports he wanted to move back to the Demons as “rubbish” ahead of his 100th game, declaring his love of playing in purple.
Fremantle big man Luke Jackson has categorically ruled out a return to Victoria amid speculation rival clubs remain interested in luring him back to where his career began.
Jackson, 23, is contracted to the Dockers until the end of 2029. But Victorian clubs, including Melbourne, believe that he could be open to returning due to a change in his personal circumstances.
Speaking ahead of his 100th AFL game, Jackson reaffirmed his commitment to Fremantle.
“I definitely will (be here long-term),” he said. “I love Freo.”
“I’ve always wanted to play here since I was a little kid. I grew up supporting the club. I’ve loved my time here.”
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It’s been reported that Jackson would be willing to extend his contract at Fremantle given rival rucks such as Carlton’s Tom De Koning are receiving offers of up to $1.6 million a year. The East Fremantle product said he’d “leave that stuff to (his) manager.”
It’s also been suggested that Jackson has indicated to Demons premiership teammates that he’d be open to a return.
“It’s all rubbish to be honest,” he said. “We played them a few weeks ago in Mandurah.
“I won a premiership with them. I have good relationships with them. I’ll obviously give the time of day. Some of my best mates are in that team. It was good to see them.”
Asked if he’d categorically ruled out a return to Victoria, Jackson responded “yes.” He wouldn’t be the first player to backflip on a commitment to his current club, with Tom Barrass infamously telling media last year he’d be a West Coast player unless the “rug was pulled from under him.”
But Jackson was adamant speculation surrounding his future wouldn’t be a distraction.
“No definitely not,” he said. “I know this won’t hang over my head.
Q: Can you categorically rule out a return to Victoria?
— Eliza Reilly (@ByElizaReilly) March 17, 2025
A: Yes
Luke Jackson faces the music amid speculation regarding his future at Fremantle. pic.twitter.com/cgENV41RZr
“I don’t let this stuff get to me. I’m enjoying my footy and that’s my main focus.”
Jackson also dispelled suggestions he would rather play as Fremantle’s No.1 ruck, believing that he and Sean Darcy can emerge as one of the AFL’s best pairings when he returns from an ankle injury.
“We showed it a few years ago when we were both healthy and had a four or five week patch where we were two of the best players in the team,” he said. “I’ve got confidence we can do it.
“I see myself playing everywhere to be honest. I think my game can be very flexible. I love being around the ball, I love going forward and impacting there and it can change every week.”
The Dockers will look to bounce back from a 78-point loss to Geelong in Round 1 against Sydney on Sunday.
“Sebba (Caleb Serong) was talking about it today,” he said. “The way the boys have come in today, you wouldn’t know we lost by that much.
“We’re going to put that behind us. It’s a long season. We’re looking forward to the next challenge.”
Originally published as AFL Now: Luke Jackson commits to Fremantle after reported interest in returning to Melbourne
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