Joe Daniher's Future with Brisbane Lions in Doubt As Grand Final Approaches

Joe Daniher's Career Choices

Speculation is mounting that Brisbane Lions star Joe Daniher is considering his AFL future after Saturday’s grand final against the Sydney Swans. 7NEWS Melbourne’s Mitch Cleary understands the 30-year-old has spoken to those close to him in recent weeks about whether he will play on in 2025.

From Bombers to Lions

A father-son product who had the choice to play for Sydney or Essendon, Daniher picked the Bombers and played 108 games for the Victorian club before arriving at the Lions ahead of the 2021 season. One year earlier, a bid to join the Swans fell over at the trade deadline. His father Anthony’s career was split between Sydney and the Bombers.

Injury Struggles and Resilience

The junior Daniher battled injury in his last three years at Essendon, making just 15 appearances during that time but has been an ever-present for Brisbane while enjoying a unique lifestyle. He lives two hours south of Brisbane in northern New South Wales.

Contract and Future Considerations

Daniher is contracted for next year but has expressed a desire to enjoy living in northern NSW beaches. Having recently re-signed with the Lions in 2022, he has scored 202 goals in 95 games for Brisbane, including four goals in the stunning come-from-behind win over GWS in the semi-final two weeks ago. Coach Chris Fagan noted Daniher, along with his teammate Dayne Zorko, is eager to win a flag before considering retirement.

Grand Final Impact

Daniher, who kicked three goals in last year's loss to Collingwood, looms as one of the most crucial forwards for the grand final against the Swans. He is expected to settle inside the forward 50, especially after being called upon to ruck following an injury to Oscar McInerney.