Uncontracted Hawthorn defender Denver Grainger-Barras is seeking a fresh start with Carlton after a difficult tenure with the Hawks, during which he was sidelined for the entire 2024 season.
Drafted sixth overall in the 2020 national draft, the 22-year-old has struggled to find consistent playing time, appearing in only 28 games over three seasons.
Last week, Grainger-Barras met with Carlton, aiming to join the Blues as a delisted free agent or summer sign-on after the trade period.
Carlton has recently strengthened its defense by signing former Giant Nick Haynes and extending Jacob Weitering’s contract, but is still on the lookout for more support following the delisting of Caleb Marchbank.
While the Blues are also eyeing All-Australian Port Adelaide defender Dan Houston, their recent trade of the No. 14 draft pick to Hawthorn indicates a shift in focus towards utilizing premium picks in the upcoming draft.
Hawthorn, on the other hand, has altered its draft strategy by trading Pick 14, complicating potential deals for star defenders Tom Barrass and Liam Baker. Nonetheless, the Hawks have already acquired Josh Battle through free agency and retain valuable future draft picks, offering them flexibility in recruitment.
Despite his struggles at Hawthorn, Grainger-Barras believes a change of environment could reignite his career. As the trade period nears its end, he awaits his opportunity for an AFL revival.