The Rise of Sam Butler: A Midfield Spark Hidden in Plain Sight

After a devastating injury and a quiet return, Sam Butler’s surprise midfield switch at Box Hill has reignited his AFL ambitions—and could offer Hawthorn a timely solution.

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I know what you’re thinking. We’ve only seen two weeks of Sam Butler as a midfielder— and only at VFL level. You’re absolutely right. But sometimes, all it takes is two weeks to spark something special. Because what have we seen from Butler in that time? It has been the most impactful, dynamic footy he’s played at Box Hill yet.

And as Hawthorn fans continue to search for answers to a midfield puzzle still missing a few key pieces, it’s worth asking the question: could the solution be right under our noses?

To understand where Butler could be headed, we first need to revisit where he has been.

A Versatile Prospect with AFL Pedigree

Sam Butler entered the AFL system with pedigree and promise. The younger brother of premiership Tiger Dan Butler, Sam was touted as a late first - or early second-round pick in the 2021 draft.