Luke Hodge calls for AFL rule change as Harley Reid set to sign $25 million deal
The AFL is reportedly considering introducing a maximum contract length in the next collective bargaining agreement (CBA), amid reports Reid wants an 11-year deal to remain at the Eagles. Reid's management have reportedly suggested a new two-year deal that would then trigger a nine-year extension, and the total deal is believed to be around the $25 million mark. A number of Victorian clubs are also believed to be willing to offer the same money.
Sam Taylor, Connor Rozee, Aaron Naughton, and Mac Andrew are among a number of players on deals in excess of seven years, while Buddy Franklin famously signed a nine-year deal to join the Swans. Speaking on SEN radio on Monday, Whateley and fellow commentator Sam Edmund said they believe there shouldn't be a cap and clubs should face the consequences if a long-term deal doesn't work out.
But Hodge disagreed, with the Hawthorn champion saying: 'I actually don't mind the capped length of a contract. If it was put in there, Melbourne wouldn't be in the position that they are with three similar blokes (Christian Petracca, Clayton Oliver and Kysaiah Pickett) with long-term deals that they can't move because they had the heavy money and long-term deals.
'I know that is pushing against the trend of you guys. But what we have seen in the past is people in football clubs make shocking decisions through desperation, and I don't think the future of that club should be held to ransom because of it.'
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Edmund said he doesn't think a change will be made anytime soon, and certainly won't affect Reid's next deal. 'I don't feel like it is anywhere near the here and now," he said. "It certainly doesn't come up in any of the conversations with the clubs, the CEO's meeting or anything of that nature.
'They have put extra protection mechanisms if you'd like for those really big contracts that require whole of board approval and the like. I don't think it is something that is coming in the here and now.
'And I hate the whole idea of saving clubs from themselves. These are adults, these are professionals. They know what they are doing, and if they are prepared to take a risk, then they are prepared to take a risk. Live by the sword, die by the sword.'
Gerard Whateley 'shudders' at thought of long Harley Reid deal
Whateley pointed out that a big deal for Reid or anyone else might act as a "cautionary tale" by the time of the next CBA. 'It can't be until 2028 anyway (with) the collective bargaining agreement and how players feel there. I do think by then, we are going to have a few cautionary tales," he said.
"But I shudder at the idea of doing an 11-year contract for Harley Reid. As what if after five years - if it doesn't turn - of misery at West Coast and he wants to get out, and he still has so long to go. The downside is tangible. And if you're a great player, you'll be fine doing five (years), then three and then four rather than doing 11 in one go and throwing yourself into the complete unknown.'
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