CARLTON star defender Jacob Weitering has shown his loyalty to the Blues, signing a six-year contract extension.
The Carlton co-vice-captain still had a year left on his existing contract, but – as first reported on AFL.com.au's Gettable last month – has signed until the end of 2031.
Arguably the best key defender in the AFL, Weitering was rewarded for his outstanding form with a maiden All-Australian blazer this year.
The 26-year-old is a dual Carlton best-and-fairest winner who has established himself as one of the standout defenders in the competition as he approaches 200 games for the club.
After averaging over 5.5 spoils a game as a brilliant lockdown defender, Weitering has expanded his game in recent seasons, recording more marks and intercepts than any other player in the competition during the 2023 season.
Weitering, taken as the No.1 draft pick in 2015, said he loved the club and did not hesitate when looking to re-commit to the Blues.
"Carlton made a significant investment in me in 2015, and I couldn’t imagine playing football anywhere else," he said.
"I have always wanted to be a one-club player, and I feel like I have grown up alongside my teammates in my nine years here.
"When I first started at the club, we went through some tough times, but I couldn't be more confident in the stability and direction of the football club as we head into the coming years."
Carlton's head of list management Nick Austin said the club was thrilled to see Weitering sign on until at least the end of 2031.
"He is one of the most respected defenders in the competition ... (and) to see him extend with still a year on his contract shows the type of loyal person he is," Austin said.