“Incredibly thankful”: Crows great to hang up the boots

Adelaide veteran Taylor Walker has announced his retirement.

The 36-year-old will finish up at the end of the 2026 season, bringing to an end a 19-year career.

‘Tex’, the former Crows captain, was grateful for what the club has provided him.

“As a young kid from Broken Hill, I dreamed about one day playing for the Crows and I’m so grateful to have been able to live that life,” Walker said via a club statement.

“I've shared the journey with so many great teammates, coaches and staff, as well as my family and friends, and I'm incredibly thankful for the role they've played in my career.

“To our members and supporters, thank you for riding every high and low with me, and your unwavering support is one of the reasons this Club is such a special place.

“I’m going to leave the game with a great deal of pride, gratitude and a lifetime of memories, not to mention an ongoing sense of belonging to the Crows community.”

Crows coach Matthew Nicks thanked Walker for his significant contribution to the club.

“Everyone sees the goals and big moments but those who have worked closely with Tex know the care he has for his teammates, our coaches and staff, and the Club,” Nicks said.

“He’s someone who led through actions as much as words. He was prepared to stand up when things were going well and, importantly, he stood tall when they weren’t.

“On behalf of our playing group and football department, as well as everyone associated with the Crows, we thank Tex for everything he has given to the Club and game generally.”

Walker has played 316 games and kicked 706 goals so far with a finals series on the horizon for the Crows.

His games tally sits third all-time at the club while his goals tally comfortably sits on top, more than 260 goals ahead of the great Tony Modra.

Walker was Crows captain from 2015 until 2019, and voted the AFLPA's best captain twice (2016 and 2017).

The 2007 draftee was named in the All-Australian team in 2023 and was Adelaide's leading goal kicker on seven occasions.