Lonergan, now a Tiger, says while he felt the chop might come, he was still angry at the decision.
"It left me wondering and wanting to know answers," the 25-year-old told News Limited.
"I was very frustrated and there was a sense of being angry towards that decision."
Lonergan played 79 games with the Bombers since his debut in 2006.
Under James Hird, he played in 12 of 23 games in 2011, and 14 of a possible 22 last season.
"I was shocked because at the time I believed I still should be in that team, but I'd seen it coming.
"When I started getting inklings about my future it was frustrating and a bit of a shock to be experiencing that, and at times it was very tough.
"Even now I still probably don't understand why it happened, but that's footy and the way it works.
"You deal with things to the best of your capabilities and, I guess, do it respectfully rather than losing your cool."
Lonergan was taken by the Tigers with pick 22 in the 2012 Rookie Draft, adding to Richmond's already potent midfield.
Lonergan spoke to the Tigers in the days after his delisting but did not hear form them again until 20 minutes before the Rookie Draft, when the club confirmed they would select him.
In the time between the meeting and the phone call, Lonergan had worked a construction job and trained by himself.
Like all players gifted a second chance, Lonergan is determined to make the most of the opportunity.
"I really just want to get myself in absolute peak physical shape. Performances will come after that and whatever happens happens," he said.
