ADELAIDE has confirmed midfielder Rory Atkins will explore his options as an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season.
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AFL.com.au reported earlier this week that Atkins was likely to leave the Crows after falling out of favour under new coach Matthew Nicks.
Atkins, 26, has played 101 games for the Crows since making his debut in round 16, 2015. He played all 25 games in the club's Grand Final season of 2017.
Crows head of football Adam Kelly said Atkins and his manager had been in discussions with the club for some time about his future.
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"Rory is a quality person, popular and highly respected by everyone at our club,” Kelly said.
"We respect and appreciate his honesty in coming to us and putting forward his intentions.
"After a great deal of thought and discussion, we mutually agreed that it is best for Rory to be released from his commitments at the club."
Atkins is one of several Crows eligible for free agency at the end of the season, a list headed by star midfielder Brad Crouch, who has signalled his desire to stay at the club.
Veteran David Mackay and Kyle Hartigan, and rookies Ben Keays and Ben Crocker are the others who could exercise free-agency options this year.
