Star Crows veteran to play on in 2026

Adelaide veteran Taylor Walker will play on in 2026, officially re-committing to the club on a one-year deal.

The veteran has been a warrior for his side since his debut in 2009, playing 301 games and kicking 680 goals, well exceeding Tony Modra to claim the title for most goals in Adelaide history.

A one-time All-Australian, five-time club leading goalkicker, club captain and one-time AFLPA best captain, Tex Walker has produced a decorated career with the Crows.

Following the Crows' minor premiership, Tex played a key role alongside Riley Thilthorpe and Darcy Fogarty, manning a three-tall forward line that propelled his side to the top of the AFL.

However, following a straight sets exit in September, Walker is set to go again in 2026, with the hopes of a deep finals run in what could be the final season of his career.

“It’s been incredible for me to witness and play a part in the growth of this team over the past few years,” Walker said.

“I’m excited to see what we can achieve next year and am keen to do what I can to help.”

While his playing future remained up in the air, Tom Rehn reported that a deal was imminent between the two parties.

"One to watch that will be locked in in the next day or so, he’s just back from Singapore and is meeting with management today," Rehn told SEN Breakfast.

"I think Taylor Walker will announce he is going on for a 19th season. It will be a different role. He has been told he wont play as much and there will be some SANFL football in there.

"But they love his leadership. 301 games. It’s always tricky when you get to 35 or 36 but I think he will play on in 2026."

On hearing Rehn's comments, Kane Cornes was surprised the Crows would offer him a new deal.

"The minute the club left the decision to him, as if he would ever walk away," Cornes said on AFL Trade Radio.

"Why do clubs leave it to the player? How soft are we? They're not going to be brave enough to play him in the SANFL. It lacks any ruthless edge from clubs when they leaver it in the hands of the player.

"Of course he's going to play again, what else would he do?"