Sam Draper is one of the most recognizable and charismatic figures in the AFL, known as much for his mulleted hairstyle and on-field flair as he is for his athleticism in the ruck.
After a high-profile move from Essendon to the Brisbane Lions ahead of the 2026 season, Draper has cemented his status as a key big man in the competition. His journey from a soccer-mad teenager in England to a marquee AFL recruit is one of the more unique stories in the league.
In this article, you will know Sam Draper’s Net worth, career earnings, career overview, stats, relationship, and more.
Sam Draper’s Biography
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Samuel Draper |
| Date of Birth | September 28, 1998 |
| Age | 27 |
| Nationality | Australian / British |
| Height | 205 cm (6 ft 9 in) |
| Weight | 105 kg |
| Turned Pro | 2017 (Rookie Draft) |
| Current Team | Brisbane Lions |
| Net Worth | Approx. $1.5 Million |
| Salary | Est. $750,000 – $800,000 |
| Partner | Izzy Burgess |
| Instagram Profile | @drvper |
| Position | Ruckman |
Early Career
Sam Draper’s path to the AFL was anything but conventional. Born in South Australia, he moved to Brede, East Sussex, in the United Kingdom with his family when he was just three years old.
For the next several years, his sporting life revolved entirely around soccer. He grew up idolizing Manchester United’s Wayne Rooney and played as a central defender, leveraging his height and coordination.
It wasn’t until his family returned to Australia when he was nine that the possibility of Australian Rules football emerged, but even then, he stuck with soccer until his late teens.
It was only at the age of 17, after realizing he had grown too tall for professional soccer, that he decided to try his hand at footy with the Reynella Wineflies in Adelaide. His raw athleticism immediately caught the eye of scouts.
After just a handful of games, he was invited to join South Adelaide in the SANFL. Despite being a novice to the sport, his vertical leap and aggression convinced Essendon to select him with the first pick in the 2017 Rookie Draft.
Professional Career
Draper’s time at Essendon was defined by electrifying highlights and battling through injuries. After developing in the VFL, he made his long-awaited debut in Round 9, 2020, against the Brisbane Lions—ironically, the team he would later join.
He quickly became a fan favorite, known for his ability to follow up his own ruck work and charge down the ground like a midfielder. His crowning moment in the red and black came in 2022 when he won the “Goal of the Year” for an incredible running goal against the Gold Coast Suns, where he evaded multiple tacklers before snapping a check-side goal.
However, his final seasons at Essendon (2024-2025) were frustrated by persistent groin and Achilles issues, limiting his continuity. Seeking a fresh start and the chance to play for a premiership contender, Draper exercised his rights as a free agent at the end of the 2025 season.
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In a blockbuster move, he signed with the Brisbane Lions, adding a dynamic new dimension to their midfield for the 2026 campaign. He departed Essendon having played 78 games and kicked 43 goals.
Girlfriend
Sam Draper is in a relationship with Izzy Burgess. The couple has been together for some time, often sharing glimpses of their life on social media, including travel adventures and offseason holidays.
In late 2025, reports surfaced of the pair holidaying in Noosa as Draper weighed up his massive contract decision to move to Brisbane. Izzy has been a supportive figure throughout Draper’s injury rehabilitation and his high-profile trade saga.
Sam Draper’s Net Worth Details
As of 2026, Sam Draper’s net worth is estimated to be approximately $1.5 Million.
Contract
In October 2025, Sam Draper signed a significant contract with the Brisbane Lions as an unrestricted free agent. While official terms are rarely disclosed publicly, industry sources indicated the deal is likely a multi-year agreement (estimated 4-5 years) that secures his future until at least 2029 or 2030.
The move triggered a first-round compensation pick (Pick 20) for Essendon, signaling the high value of the contract.
Salary
For the 2026 season, Draper’s salary is estimated to be between $750,000 and $800,000. This places him in the upper echelon of ruckmen in the league.
His salary at Brisbane likely includes performance incentives and reflects the premium paid to lure him away from Essendon, who had reportedly offered a similar long-term deal to keep him.
Career Earnings
| Year | Team | Estimated Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | Brisbane Lions | ~$775,000 |
| 2025 | Essendon | ~$550,000 |
| 2024 | Essendon | ~$500,000 |
| 2023 | Essendon | ~$450,000 |
| 2020-2022 | Essendon | ~$600,000 (Combined) |
| 2017-2019 | Essendon | ~$250,000 (Rookie Wages) |
| Total | ~ | ~$3,125,000 (Gross Career) |
Endorsements
Sam Draper is one of the most marketable players in the AFL due to his unique look and engaging personality. He has held partnerships with brands such as Nike for footwear and apparel.
Additionally, he has been involved with Movember campaigns and other lifestyle brand collaborations. His move to Brisbane is expected to open new commercial opportunities in the Queensland market.
Career Stats
| Statistic | Details |
|---|---|
| Career Games | 78 (at Essendon) |
| Career Goals | 43 |
| Average Hitouts | 21.5 |
| Average Disposals | 10.4 |
| Goal of the Year | Winner (2022) |
| Debut | Round 9, 2020 vs Brisbane Lions |
FAQs
1. Which team does Sam Draper play?
Sam Draper plays for the Brisbane Lions. He joined the club as an unrestricted free agent at the end of the 2025 season after leaving Essendon.
2. What is Sam Draper’s salary?
His salary is estimated to be around $750,000 to $800,000 per season. This reflects the lucrative contract he signed upon moving to Brisbane.
3. Who is Sam Draper’s partner?
Sam Draper is in a relationship with Izzy Burgess. They have been together for several years and she supported him during his move to Queensland.
4. Did Sam Draper play soccer before AFL?
Yes, Sam Draper played soccer as a centre back during his childhood in the UK and Australia. He only switched to Australian Rules football at the age of 17.
5. Why did Sam Draper leave Essendon?
Draper cited a need for a fresh start following struggles with injuries (groin and Achilles) and a desire to play for a premiership contender as key reasons for his departure.
