‘I couldn’t picture myself anywhere else’: Motlop hits 50 games, eyes Blues future

Jackson Clark Published May 17, 2025 at 12.00am (AWST)

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Carlton forward Jesse Motlop played his 50th AFL game against Sydney on Friday. Image: AFL.

Carlton small forward Jesse Motlop notched up his 50th AFL game when the Blues took on Sydney at the SCG on Friday night.

The 21-year-old became the fourth member of the Motlop family to reach the milestone after his father Daniel and uncles Shannon and Steven.

It is Motlop's fourth season at the elite level, and despite his contract expiring at the end of the year, the Larrakia man says he has no desire to leave the club.

"I have been here four years and am grateful they took an opportunity to give me a crack at AFL footy," Motlop told the Herald Sun.

"I have made so many great mates along the way and couldn't picture myself at another AFL club."

After an injury-riddled 2024 season, Motlop has cemented his spot in Carlton's line-up this year, playing in 10 matches to date and kicking six goals.

His standout performance came in Round 6 against North Melbourne on Good Friday, where he collected 13 disposals, slotted three goals and laid nine tackles.

Motlop has relished the opportunity to play on the big stage and is aware of the privilege that comes with representing a club like Carlton.

Jesse Motlop celebrates kicking a goal for the Blues. (Image: AFL)

"I don't take for granted how big the club is and what we are about and how many people do support us, so that is just one thing I have come to learn," he said.

"For me I always wanted to play AFL footy and I dreamt of playing in Melbourne and playing on the big stage, that was one thing that was imprinted on me.

"It is not always going to be there (so) make the most of it."

While some Blues fans have been critical of his recent form, Jesse's uncle and AFL premiership player Shannon Motlop has defended his nephew, urging supporters to keep things in perspective.

"He's had a couple of average games, but he's still a young kid – it's not always easy for a small forward," said the ex-North Melbourne and Melbourne player.

"I've seen the social media stuff, I just don't know what the focus is on him, but supporters will be supporters.

"I think what goes on in the inner sanctum is what really matters – that's probably all Jesse would be focussing on – he wouldn't see a lot of the media stuff.

"He is young and has got a lot of development ahead of him. Just like any young kid, he's developing and some develop earlier, some develop later."