Melbourne’s draft compensation has been announced.
James Jordon is now a Swan after the paperwork for his free agency move from Melbourne to Sydney was the first to be lodged on Friday morning, the first of the AFL’s 2023 free agency period.
There had been interest in Jordon from multiple Victorian clubs, including St Kilda and Essendon, before the 187cm midfielder-forward nominated Sydney as his preferred destination late last week.
The AFL has confirmed Melbourne will receive end-of-Round Two compensation, currently pick No. 39 at November’s draft.
Taken with pick 33 in the 2018 national draft, Jordon broke out in their historic 2021 season, playing all 25 games, earning a Rising Star nomination, and of course, being a part of the drought-breaking premiership win that year.
Having played 65 games for the Demons, Jordon was starved of opportunities this season, managing 18 games, though two as an unused sub and 8 as either the activated sub or subbed-out player, before deciding on a fresh start.
While on paper his numbers were down — he averaged just 13.1 disposals — it’s likely due to the impact of being the substitute. Last season, he played 22 games and averaged 20.2 disposals, hinting that he could develop into a quality midfielder.
After five seasons at Melbourne, Jordon was a restricted free agent and informed the Demons of his intent to explore his options for greater opportunities late in the year.
It seems that the club has not stood in his way, with the paperwork going through quickly within hours of the official opening of the trade period.
Jordon will likely also have a familiar face joining him with Demons teammate Brodie Grundy also expected to join the Swans.
