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Why Lyon believes Petracca will dominate as a Sun
Jaiden Sciberras • February 21st, 2026 2:16 pm
Christian Petracca’s shift to the Gold Coast could be the perfect move to revitalise his career, according to Garry Lyon.
The 2021 Norm Smith Medallist's closing years with Melbourne were far from ideal, suffering numerous injury setbacks within a team struggling for success.
However, having landed at the Suns after a fruitful trade period for the club, Petracca has hit the pre-season as hard as anyone.
And according to the Dees legend, the star has left no stone unturned in his attempt to impress in new colours.
“I reckon he’s perfect (health-wise),” Lyon told SEN Breakfast.
“Coming back last year, he still played some good footy. I think he said this recently – he’s in the best head space he’s been in for a long time.
“He is a physically imposing talent, Christian Petracca. He fits in with Noah Anderson and Matt Rowell and Bailey Humphrey and Touk Miller… that’s why you’ve got to win them a premiership!”
With Petracca’s elite ability both on and ahead of the ball, Lyon has indicated the perfect split that should be deployed by the club.
“(They should play him) the way that he’s played his best footy,” Lyon said.
“He is your hybrid – 60 (percent) forward, 40 (per cent) midfield. They call them the hybrids, those players that push forward.
“He will share that with Touk and Bailey Humphrey from time to time.
“I expect him to have a cracking season, Christian Petracca. I think he’ll be outstanding.”
Petracca featured in his first hit out for the Suns on Thursday night in the loss to the Saints, featuring heavily in the midfield in a sign that he could return to his best form in new colours.
