Brandon Ellis

Recruited by Richmond with pick 15 in the 2011 National Draft, Brandon Ellis arrived from the Calder Cannons with a reputation for elite endurance and high training standards. He quickly established himself in the Tigers' best 22, evolving from a rebounding defender into a hard-running wingman whose gut-running was crucial to the club's game plan. While his disposal efficiency occasionally drew scrutiny earlier in his career, his durability and ability to accumulate uncontested possessions made him a vital component of the Tigers' surge up the ladder. This role proved pivotal during the club's dynasty era, where Ellis became a two-time premiership player in 2017 and 2019, celebrated for his ability to link play and cover the ground.

Following the 2019 premiership triumph, Ellis exercised his rights as a restricted free agent to join Gold Coast on a significant long-term deal, designed to inject experienced leadership into a developing squad. He provided the Suns with consistent outside run and served as a standard-setter for the club's emerging midfield core during a difficult rebuilding phase. Although his final season in 2024 was hampered by recurring calf issues, Ellis retired as a 251-game veteran who successfully bridged the gap between a premiership dynasty and a mentorship role at an expansion club.