Western Bulldogs free agent Bailey Williams signs new contract

Western Bulldogs winger Bailey Williams has re-committed to Kennel for a further four seasons, extending his service with the blue, white and red until the end of 2027.

The 25-year-old will now extend his Bulldog career to 12 years, having first arrived at Whitten Oval during the 2015 national tour.

Williams would play six games in his first year with the club as the Bulldogs ended their premiership drought, and he would double that number the following season when he wanted playing a role under senior coach Luke Beveridge.

By 2020, Williams would be a fixture in the Dogs’ senior team, playing at 18 that year before reaching the finals a season later.

From 2021 to 2023, Williams will play at least 22 games per season as a utility option who can contribute on all three lines of the infield. This season, Williams could have exercised his rights on the open market as a free agent, but has instead committed himself to the Dogs’ cause under Beveridge in four more years.

“In the end it was a pretty easy decision for me,” Williams said in a club statement.

“I have made many friendships since arriving here eight years ago and I have loved my time at the Bulldogs so far.

“I still feel like there are exciting times ahead and we are all hungry for further success after a disappointing end to the season.”

“It’s a very tight group and we’re all looking forward to getting into pre-season over the coming weeks.”

Williams played a total of 127 games for the Dogs during his eight seasons in the AFL, including six grand finals appearances.

His new contract follows the recent retention of compatriot Caleb Poulter, who this week signed a two-year extension with the Bulldogs after joining them in May in the mid-season draft. FIND OUT MORE

The Western Bulldogs have announced a new contract extension with key striker Aaron Naughton for eight years, locking him in at the Kennel until the end of the 2032 season.

The club announced the major retention signing on Wednesday night, with the West Australian the first of several key re-signings the Dogs will make over the next 12 months.

Naughton said his decision was a “special moment” and he looked forward to the future in blue, white and red.

“This is a special moment for me to sign, especially for my family,” Naughton said.

“Signing a long-term contract and staying here, especially with my team-mates, I want them to know that I’m in the same boat as them. Playing alongside these guys over the coming years is really exciting.

“When you get drafted by this club and they make you feel welcome, not just me but the whole Washington family, it’s amazing. You build strong bonds with all your teammates and I have some of my closest friends here.

“I am optimistic about this group and what we can achieve in the coming years. It’s hard work and I know this team is willing to put in the effort every day.

Naughton has played 123 games for the Bulldogs since making his debut in 2018, scoring a total of 191 goals to lead the club in scoring over the past two seasons.