Former Carlton and GWS defender Zac Williams has officially called time on his AFL career.
The 32-year-old was delisted by the Blues last month but had interest initially from Essendon and then Sydney, whose coach Dean Cox personally spoke to Williams.
Preparing for the loss of Nick Blakey, who eventually moved to North Melbourne, the Swans saw Williams as potential depth in their half-backline.
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“Just be ready, mate — we might need you,” Cox said to Williams on the phone, according to Tom Morris on The Agenda Setters on October 12.
But Williams has now made the decision to end his 183-game career after 14 years at the highest level.
“Well, after 14 years it’s all said and done. Decided to call it time on my AFL career and retire,” he said.
“I’m so grateful for the people I have formed relationships with through my career.
“To the Giants and Carlton, can not thank you enough for supporting me through the ups and downs and giving me a chance to play at the highest level.
“Thank you to my family for supporting me all the way through to this point. Wouldn’t have made it with out them.
“So many other people to thank which I will do over time but thank you to the wider AFL community for embracing me.
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“It’s been a privilege to play the game I love so much for so long and I’m looking forward to my next chapter! Thank you.”
Zac Williams has hung up the boots. Credit: Getty
At his peak, Williams was one of the most damaging running defenders in the game, and a big reason why the Giants were genuine premiership contenders between 2016 and 2019, during which time they played in a grand final and three preliminary finals.
Williams was traded to Carlton after eight years at GWS, signing a lucrative contract with the Blues at the end of 2020.
He played 113 games for the the Giants before adding another 70 in Blues colours.
Williams played just nine senior games this year with his last coming in Round 10, which was Josh Fraser’s first in charge, as youngsters like Billy Wilson were favoured in his position.
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