Tom Morris Joins Rival Network Channel 7

Channel 9’s chief footy reporter, Tom Morris, has made a surprising move by joining rival network Channel 7. The 34-year-old confirmed on Friday morning that he accepted a lucrative offer from Channel 7, according to Code Sports.

Key Figures Behind the Move

The successful recruitment was led by Seven’s head of sport, Chris Jones, and SEN boss Craig Hutchison. Morris will now be part of a strong team of football talent at Channel 7.

Role at Channel 7

Morris is not expected to take on a main on-air role, as Mitch Cleary remains the network’s chief footy reporter. Alongside Cleary and Xander McGuire, who also recently moved from Nine, they will form a powerful reporting team.

Background and Motivation

This move follows other high-profile signings by Channel 7, including Kane Cornes from Channel 9 before the 2024 AFL season. Morris, who joined Nine in January 2024, was reportedly persuaded by Channel 7 holding the broadcast rights to both football and cricket.

"Seven’s head of sport, Chris Jones and SEN boss Craig Hutchison were behind the successful poaching attempt, which will see Morris join an already stacked roster of top footy talent."

"Morris is understood to have been convinced to jump ship due to Channel 7 having the broadcast rights to both the footy and cricket."