AFL Manager Advocates for $5 Million Salaries for Star Players

Robbie D'Orazio, a player-manager at CDG Sports Management, has proposed that elite AFL players should have the potential to earn up to $5 million per season. He argues that the current salary cap restricts their earning potential and suggests the introduction of franchise tags to better reward players who attract fans.

D'Orazio highlighted that top players can secure substantial endorsement deals and benefit from a new $35 million marketing fund allocated to the league's top 54 players. He mentioned that each club might consider allowing one star player to be exempt from the salary cap, similar to practices in other sports leagues.

He specifically pointed out players like Nick Daicos, suggesting they deserve higher salaries based on their marketability and performance. D'Orazio noted that while St Kilda's Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera has already signed a $2 million contract, other players are also receiving significant offers. Daicos, recognized as one of the league's best, is currently under contract until 2029.