West Coast defender’s exit confirmed following interest from Victorian rival

The 26-year-old has confirmed his future.

West Coast defender Josh Rotham looks set for the exit after eight seasons with the Eagles, with attention now turning to whether he secures a lifeline at AFL level this off-season.

Rotham’s future is yet to be confirmed by the club in the wake of last week’s player movement period concluding, with the 26-year-old having been eligible for free agency but not finding a new home.

It was believed the medium-sized defender might earn an extenstion at West Coast for 2025 after the West Perth product was not part of the Eagles’ latest batch of delistings last week.

Rotham has since thanked the club for his time in the royal blue and gold, where he played 72 games since beign drafted in 2016, confirming his time with the Eagles has come to an end.

“Thank you West Coast Eagles,” Rotham posted on Sunday night.

“I love this footy club and have been spoilt with some of the best mentors I could have imagined. Got drafted with my best mate, gained some more and got to live out my childhood dream of playing AFL in these colours.

“4 qtrs on the weekend is gold, but the belly laughs, doom sessions, footy trips, and relationships you build in between are just as special. It’s brought Mads and I a tonne of joy and I’m so grateful for it

“Finish up bloody proud and hope I made my people feel the same way at some stage along the way too. I have no doubt this club will be back where it belongs in no time.

“All love playas.”

The Eagles thanked Rotham for his contribution.

“Josh has given all of himself to the club and departs as one of the most popular members of the playing squad amongst his teammates and staff alike,” List Manager Matt Clarke said today.

“We thank him for his efforts on the field and overall contribution to the club, and wish him well for the next chapter.”

Rotham’s announcement follows recent intrerest from Essendon, who had weighed up a move for the agile backman over the past several weeks.

The Bombers could still make a play for Rotham’s signature via delisted free agency, or have the Western Australian join the club’s pre-season program as a potential Supplemental Selection Period acquisition.

Essendon are a chance to have delisted defender Kaine Baldwin back at Tullamarine this summer as an SSP train-on talent, offering the luckless swingman a chance to secure a second chance at the club.