Untested Sydney small forward Jacob Konstanty does not currently have a contract for the upcoming season and is one of several players who were left unsigned during the 2024 AFL Trade Period.
Konstanty, who was chosen with Pick 20 in the 2022 National Draft and compared to Tom Papley, has not been able to win over coach John Longmire long enough to get his chance to play. The 19-year-old has spent time in the VFL, falling behind players like Sam Wicks and Caiden Cleary, especially after veteran Taylor Adams joined the team.
Competing teams are noticing that the Swans have not extended their contract with Konstanty until 2025. Although there might still be room for him, the team has a strong roster and few open spots, as his agent Dave Trotter pointed out when he made the announcement a month ago that they would talk about his future with the team following the season. If no contract is offered, he could explore free agency, similar to Jack Martin‘s recent situation with Carlton and Geelong.
Konstanty’s next possible destinations—especially if he is cheap—might be any of the Victorian clubs searching for a small forward. Essendon is a noteworthy choice because, even if they draft Isaac Kako, they might improve their forward lineup. To strengthen their rosters, Richmond and North Melbourne are also looking for young talent. While the Tigers, under coach Adem Yze, hope to improve their forward structure, the Kangaroos are in need of a true small forward. Additionally, Carlton might consider him as a replacement for Matt Owies, whose future is uncertain.