James Rowbottom, born on September 19, 2000, is a professional Australian rules footballer who plays for the Sydney Swans in the Australian Football League (AFL).
The Sydney Swans recruited him with the 25th draft pick in the 2018 AFL Draft.
Here, we have James Rowbottom’s net worth, salary, contract, career earnings, relationship status, and more.
James Rowbottom’s Biography
| Personal Information | Details |
| Full Name | James Rowbottom |
| Date of Birth | 19 September 2000 |
| Place of Birth | Melbourne, Victoria |
| Original Team(s) | Oakleigh Chargers (TAC Cup) |
| Draft | No. 25, 2018 AFL draft, Sydney |
| Debut | Round 6, 2019, Sydney vs. GWS Giants, at Sydney Cricket Ground |
| Height | 186 cm (6 ft 1 in) |
| Weight | 82 kg (181 lb) |
| Position(s) | Midfielder |
| Current Club | Sydney Swans |
| Number | 8 |
| Playing Career | 2019–present |
| Games (Goals) | 69 (22) (as of the end of the 2022 season) |
James Rowbottom was born and raised in Melbourne, Australia. He began his football journey with the Auskick program at Glenferrie in Hawthorn.
Before progressing to the Oakleigh Chargers in the TAC Cup, he played his junior football with Prahran, Camberwell Sharks, and St Kevin’s College.
Rowbottom comes from a family with a strong football background. He is the nephew of former AFL player and current Channel 7 AFL commentator Brian Taylor.
His younger sister, Charlie Rowbottom, is also an Australian rules footballer who Gold Coast drafted with the number one draft pick in the 2021 AFL Women’s draft.
AFL Career
The Sydney Swans drafted Rowbottom with the 25th overall pick in the 2018 AFL Draft.
His early football journey included participation in the Auskick program at Glenferrie, Hawthorn, and playing junior football with Prahran, Camberwell Sharks, and St Kevin’s College before progressing to the Oakleigh Chargers in the TAC Cup.
Rowbottom made his AFL debut in 2019 and quickly established himself as a key player for the Swans. As of the end of the 2022 season, he has played 69 games and scored 22 goals.
His playing statistics consistently improve over the years, with his 2022 season being particularly impressive.
He played 24 games, scored 8 goals, and had 443 disposals, 60 marks, and 163 tackles, showcasing his ability to contribute significantly offensively and defensively.
Notably, in 2023, Rowbottom set a new Sydney Swans record for the most tackles in a season, with 171, surpassing Brett Kirk’s previous record.
This achievement highlights his exceptional work rate and defensive efforts.
By the age of 22, Rowbottom had played 92 career games and accumulated 556 career tackles, averaging 6.04 tackles per game, which places him 16th on Sydney’s all-time tackle list.
James Rowbottom’s Net Worth Details
James Rowbottom’s net worth is estimated to be $1 million as of 2025. James Rowbottom, an Australian rules footballer who plays for the Sydney Swans, is estimated to be worth approximately $1 million.
His primary source of income is his career as a professional AFL player.
Contract and Salary
James Rowbottom, the dynamic midfielder for the Sydney Swans, has been a key player since being drafted in 2018.
According to the latest information, Rowbottom is under contract with the Swans until the end of the 2024 season.
Rowbottom’s salary for the 2021 season was listed as $483,800, an increase from his 2020 salary of $370,200.
This progression reflects his growing importance to the team and his performance on the field.
With his contract running through 2024, Rowbottom’s salary will likely reflect his contributions to the team and his potential for future growth as a player.
As he continues to develop his skills and contribute to the Swans’ success, his financial rewards are expected to align with his on-field achievements.
AFL Career Statistics
| Year | Games | Goals | Kicks | Handballs | Disposals | Marks | Tackles | Hitouts | Goal Accuracy |
| 2019 | 12 | 7 | 7.5 | 6.1 | 13.6 | – | – | – | – |
| 2020 | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| 2021 | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| 2022 | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| 2023 | – | – | – | – | – | – | 7.3 | – | – |
| Total | 93 | 28 | 9.6 | 6.9 | 16.5 | 1.9 | 6 | 0 | – |
FAQs
1. Who is James Rowbottom?
James Rowbottom is a professional Australian rules footballer who plays as a midfielder for the Sydney Swans in the Australian Football League (AFL). He was drafted by the Swans with pick number 25 in the 2018 AFL Draft and has become a key player for the team.
2. When and where was James Rowbottom born?
James Rowbottom was born on September 19, 2000. He grew up in Victoria, Australia, and played his junior football with clubs such as Prahran, Camberwell Sharks, and St Kevin’s College before joining the Oakleigh Chargers in the TAC Cup.
3. What is James Rowbottom’s playing style and strengths?
James Rowbottom is known for his relentless competitiveness, tackling ability, and work ethic. He is recognized as a hard-nosed midfielder who excels at winning contested possessions, applying pressure, and leading by example on the field.
4. What are some of James Rowbottom’s career highlights?
James Rowbottom has led the AFL in tackles for a season, played over 100 games for Sydney by age 24, and earned Brownlow Medal votes. He has also been praised for his performances in finals and is regarded as a future leader at the club.
5. What is James Rowbottom’s educational background?
Outside of football, James Rowbottom is studying for a Bachelor of Commerce at UNSW. He values education as a way to prepare for life after his football career and has a particular interest in economics and accounting.
6. How did James Rowbottom start his AFL career?
Rowbottom’s pathway to the AFL included a late call-up to the Vic Metro squad for the AFL U18 Championships, which helped him get noticed by recruiters. He was selected by the Sydney Swans in the 2018 AFL Draft and made his senior debut in 2019.
7. What is James Rowbottom’s contract status with the Sydney Swans?
James Rowbottom is contracted to the Sydney Swans until the end of the 2028 AFL season, reflecting the club’s confidence in his abilities and importance to the team’s future.
8. Has James Rowbottom held any leadership roles with the Sydney Swans?
While not yet a formal member of the leadership group, Rowbottom has been recognized for his leadership qualities on and off the field. He is seen as a potential future leader and is respected for his attitude and influence among teammates.
9. Who has been a mentor to James Rowbottom during his AFL career?
Luke Parker, a former Sydney Swans captain, has been a significant mentor to Rowbottom. Rowbottom credits Parker for his guidance early in his career and looks forward to competing against him now that Parker plays for North Melbourne.
10. What are James Rowbottom’s goals for his football and post-football life?
James Rowbottom aims to keep improving as a player, focusing on fitness and consistency each season. Off the field, he is preparing for a career in commerce or economics after football, ensuring he has opportunities beyond his sporting life.
