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Live EPL this MondayThe out-of-favour key Cornes would offer "ridiculous money"
Jaiden Sciberras • March 22nd, 2026 5:21 pm
Kane Cornes has named the out-of-favour youngster that he believes could be the next million-dollar key forward.
Taken with the third overall pick in the 2023 National Draft, this Gold Coast talent has been pushed out of the side given the rise of Ethan Read and the continued dominance of Coleman leader Ben King.
During the Suns’ 68-point win over Richmond, the key forward pairing combined for 11 goals, with Read breaking out as a complete tall alongside the All-Australian calibre in King.
While rumours surrounding King’s future and potential desire to return to Victoria at the end of his current contract, likelihood remains that the superstar will remain a Sun following its expiration at the end of this year.
With that in mind, Gold Coast’s now-reserve key forward – who’s contract also expires at the conclusion of this season – should be a target for multiple clubs ahead of next year.
“If you are looking at a key forward, go and give Jed Walter $1.2 million right now.” Cornes told AFL Nation.
“Ben King is going to get the offers. I look at Port Adelaide, if Butters goes, go and give Jed Walter an offer he cannot say no to!
“He is Josh Kennedy from West Coast all over again. That’s what he is going to be, and he can’t get a game.
“He’s out of contract, he’s going to look and there’s two in front of him already, Jamarra (Ugle-Hagan) is still there… I’d be offering ridiculous money to go and get him.”
Outside of Port Adelaide, Cornes believes that the Bombers should also make a play at the out-of-favour key.
“There’s a few (teams) that do (need a key forward). Essendon – imagine (Nate) Caddy and Walter for the next 10 years!” Cornes said.
“(Walter’s) going to be hard to keep. They are going to lose players, but they are blessed with one of the best young lists we’ve ever seen.”
20-year-old Walter featured for the Suns in the VFL this weekend, kicking one goal from 12 disposals to open his account in 2026.
