Western Bulldogs trade for defender Connor Budarick from Gold Coast Suns, sending pick 37 for pick 70 and Budarick.

The Western Bulldogs have traded for 24-year-old Gold Coast Suns defender Connor Budarick, acquiring him in exchange for draft picks. The deal, finalized after initial negotiations stalled, saw the Bulldogs send pick No. 37 to the Suns and receive pick No. 70 and Budarick. Budarick, who played 19 games in 2025 including the finals, has 55 career games and overcame two knee reconstructions. The Bulldogs plan to use him as a defender, citing his speed, physicality, and versatility. The trade marks the Bulldogs’ first move in the 2025 AFL Trade Period and strengthens their defensive depth ahead of the upcoming season.