Christopher Yarran Biography

Richmond coach Damien Hardwick says the club was unaware of the depth of former player Chris Yarran's drug-fuelled problems when he joined the Tigers from Carlton at the end of 2015.

"We gave him as best support as we could. We don't get confronted with these things on a daily basis, so they're really hard and it's an issue within society and the person themselves that is addicted to the drugs but also the family unit is deeply affected as well," Hardwick said.

"It had a profound impact on our footy club."

Chris Yarran reveals how drug addiction ruined his life and AFL career, before religion helped turn his fortunes around.

"I was introduced to methamphetamines by a family member. Drugs were something I despised my whole life," Yarran said.

"I remember as I was about to try ice, I said to myself: 'This will either be just a good night, or it will ruin me'. It ruined me."

After his life spiralled out of control on drugs he tried counselling, visiting psychiatrists and spent four weeks in a rehab clinic for $1000 a night.

"The day I walked out, I was back on meth. This ended my footy career and I moved back home to Perth," Yarran said.

"I realised I was a person who had everything, and I lost it all."

But Yarran says discovering religion turned his life around.

"The darkness was gone. Replaced with a light that gives me joy and peace that I had searched for in my career and in drugs," he said.

"It was like I was made an entirely new person from the inside out. I was born again."

Richmond football manager Neil Balme has defended the decision to sacrifice two draft picks to trade in Chris Yarran and says the club's "risk" should not be judged in hindsight.

Yarran retired effective immediately on Tuesday without playing a game for the Tigers and has returned to Western Australia to focus on his battle with mental health issues.

"If we had hindsight we wouldn't do a lot of things and it would stop us from taking a risk on almost all the good things that have happened in the world," Balme said.

"Is it worth helping these young men and taking a risk to help them play the game they love to play? Surely it is.

"Sometimes they don't work out, but we shouldn't just go back and say that was a bad decision, therefore you should never have done it."

Chris Yarran has been released from his contract with Richmond immediately and will return to Western Australia to deal with ongoing mental health issues.

"Chris has found it difficult to meet the demands of AFL football given his personal issues," Richmond football manager Neil Balme said.

"Ultimately it was agreed with Chris, and his management, that stepping away from the game is in the best interest of his long-term health and wellbeing."

Eddie Betts has posted an emotional message of support for former teammate Chris Yarran, who has walked away from his contract with Richmond to focus on his battle with mental health issues.

"It is so hard to see you finish like this but you'll always be the biggest gun in my eyes," Betts wrote on social media.

"I have missed playing beside you but I'll always be here for you.

"To all my brothers in AFL, I know it can get tough at times but we just have to speak up and help each other out … it's hard seeing young indigenous players pack up and leave.

"Mental health doesn't discriminate."

Chris Yarran says he doubted if he would play AFL again during a difficult 2016, but believes he can reignite his career at Richmond in 2017.

"There were times during the year when I doubted myself, doubted whether I would ever play again but I'm in a steady place now and I'm ready to start playing some good footy," Yarran told News Corporation.

"My personal issues are taken care of and this is the best I've felt and looked for quite some time.

"I really missed playing and I'm doing everything in my power to make sure I play again.

"All I want to do is get back and play some decent footy for the Richmond Football Club, which I'm quite capable of doing."

Richmond say they have not given up hope that Chris Yarran will recover to complete a full pre-season, and will give him that opportunity before considering his list position for 2017.

"We're obviously going to help him as much as we can, but the reality is either he can or he can't," Tigers football manager Neil Balme said.

"He'll either train as hard as he can and get himself in the right condition, or he can't. That'll work itself out in due course."

Chris Yarran is back at Richmond after being away from the club for a month to treat his mental health issues.

"After consultation with medical staff, we have agreed that Chris is ready to return to the club, and he has commenced training this week,” Richmond football manager Dan Richardson said.

"We will continue to provide him every support he needs to manage his condition.

"No timeline has been put on his return to playing football."

Shane Edwards says it's important Richmond teammate Chris Yarran is given the space and time he needs while on indefinite leave from the club.

"He's sorting some issues out. It's a private matter but he's taking the right step forward to hopefully playing more football in the future," Edwards said.

"I reckon we just need to let him be and let him recover and make sure he can get on the track and help us out."

Chris Yarran will take indefinite leave from Richmond as he seeks treatment for a mental health condition.

"Chris's health and wellbeing is of the utmost importance to us and there's no timeframe on his return at this stage," Richmond coach Damien Hardwick said.

"He's a great young fella and we wish him the best.

"His health and wellbeing is No.1 for us and however long that takes, that's up to Chris and his practitioners."

Richmond confirm that Daniel Rioli and Chris Yarran will return to their home states this week to attend to family matters.

Rioli has travelled to the Northern Territory to be with an ill family member but is expected to be available to face Fremantle in Saturday night's clash at Domain Stadium.

Yarran has travelled to Western Australia for family reasons.

Chris Yarran has shrugged off criticism of his physical condition this pre-season after being labelled "his own worst enemy" by former coach Mick Malthouse.

Malthouse questioned Yarran's dedication, saying he "hasn’t quite got that knack of being a great professional in regards to coming back and being ready to play".

"I don't pay too much attention to it to be honest … everyone's got different opinions about it," Yarran said.

"At the end of the day, the only people that matter are my close friends and teammates.

"I'm always happy with my shape."

Chris Yarran is set to be sidelined for six weeks due to a foot injury.

Yarran, who had been racing to be fit for the season-opener against his former club Carlton, will be sent for surgery to fix plantar fascia tissue in his left foot.

"Chris has worked extremely hard on his fitness over the pre-season," Tigers general manager of football Dan Richardson said.

"While this is a setback following a solid block of training over the past month in particular, the positive is that the surgery has a high success rate, and we look forward to Chris playing his best football for us once he fully recovers."

Chris Yarran is unlikely to make his Richmond debut until after round six, with the former Blue yet to join in full training at Richmond as he battles calf problems.

Chris Yarran remains a number of weeks away from joining his new teammates in full training as the Tigers manage his return from a calf injury.

Yarran's first pre-season at Richmond has been interrupted by a number of soft tissue injuries and illness.

"Chris is settling in really well with the club and his new teammates, but has had some soft tissue injuries over the pre-season," Richmond football manager Dan Richardson said.

"Our fitness staff are managing his program and training loads at the moment, and we hope he joins the main training group in a few weeks."

Richmond development coach Mark Williams says the club will embrace Chris Yarran's individuality – as they did with Dustin Martin – to get the best out of their talented recruit.

"People with great talent - if you can get them to be consistent and continually back themselves and believe in themselves, it'll be great for Richmond," Williams said.

"All players are different – you can treat them all the same but you won't get the best result from them.

"Dustin would be one that if you make the rules 'this' strict, he's going to break some of them … give him a few guidelines off the field on what we can accept and once he joins in with the group and understands the responsibility he just delivers."

Chris Yarran says he might have given up on footy had he been forced to stay at Carlton.

"It was very important for myself to get a fresh start because who knows, if I'd stayed at the other club, I might have parted ways with footy forever if I'd kept going the way I was going," Yarran said.

"A fresh start is just what I needed.

"Obviously it was well documented last year that I wasn't playing the way I would have liked but I'm just thankful Richmond gave me the opportunity to play for a great club and hopefully I can return the favour."

Richmond holds its nerve and lands Chris Yarran from Carlton in a swap for pick 19 just minutes before the trade deadline.

The Tigers and Blues had been stuck in a deadlock over the wantaway Blues speedster throughout the NAB AFL Trade Period, wrangling over the value of the pick to be exchanged.

But with less than half an hour to go, the Tigers locked away the 24-year-old on a three-year deal.

Carlton originally demanded Richmond's first pick in the draft at No.12 overall but the Tigers handed over 19 instead.

The Herald Sun reports that Chris Yarran is so desperate become a Tiger that he could give the 2016 season a miss and join Richmond as a free agent.

"It’s a possible option," a source close to Yarran told the Herald Sun.

Carlton refuses to accept Richmond’s offer of pick 19 for the 119-gamer, and it is believed the Blues would also have knocked back the pick 17 the Tigers tried to coax from the Brisbane Lions in exchange for defender David Astbury.

Carlton remains adamant it wants the Tigers' pick 12 for Yarran.

But The Age suggests the Blues might soften their hardline stance given it appears untenable for Yarran to fulfill the final year of his contract at Ikon Park.

It's believed the Blues and Yarran have not had direct contact at any stage of the trade period, and Carlton's free agency compensation for him next year wouldn't be as good as pick 19.

Richmond is searching for a late first-round selection to satisfy Carlton's demands for Chris Yarran, with scenarios involving picks being discussed on Tuesday.

It is understood the Tigers value Yarran between pick No.15 and the early 20s, and they acknowledge he is a player worthy of a first-round pick.

The Tigers have ruled out swapping their pick No.12 directly for Yarran, and their second-round selection (No.31) is too late to satisfy the Blues.

Hawthorn has all but ruled itself out of the running to secure Chris Yarran from Carlton after being told that Richmond is his likely destination.

"We did ask the question about six or seven weeks ago about Chris when we heard that he was looking to move, or Carlton were looking to move him, but we were told then that it looks like it will be Richmond and that was as far as that went," Hawthorn's list and recruiting manager Graham Wright said.

"We haven't spoken to him or his management in the last couple of weeks."

Chris Yarran informs Carlton that he would like to make a fresh start at a new AFL home.

"With Chris, he is a contracted player and an A-grade player when up and about," new Blues coach Brendon Bolton said.

"We love the footy he plays when he's running off half-back, but if he doesn't want to play, we will have to have a discussion about what the return is."

Chris Yarran says he would happy to remain at Carlton in 2016.

Yarran, after spending time in the VFL this year despite Carlton's on-field woes, has been the subject of much trade speculation despite having a year left on his contract.

The rebuilding Blues are intent on stockpiling early picks at this year's draft and Yarran does have value in the trade market despite his season to forget.

"I'm contracted for next year so we've just got to wait and see," Yarran said.

"I'd like to (stay). Obviously, I committed last year for two years.

"I'm happy at the club so, if they want me around, then I'll be more than happy (to)."

Blues interim coach John Barker says Chris Yarran will be a long-term player for the Blues, as long as he lives up to the standards expected of a player of his talent.

"There's never been any question about whether Chris wants to be a Carlton player long term," Barker said.

"Absolutely Chris Yarran is an important part of this club going forward. As long as they stand for what we stand for, they're important to us. And he's definitely important to us."

Carlton omits Chris Yarran for the Blues' clash against Adelaide after a series of off-field disciplinary breaches during the week.

"Chris is an outstanding person and player for our football club, but he hasn't got some things right around punctuality this week," interim Blues coach John Barker said.

"He will learn from this and we fully expect him to be back playing some good football for us soon."

Carlton is 'disappointed' in Chris Yarran after his three-match suspension for striking Essendon's Paul Chapman, but coach Mick Malthouse says the Blues have already put the matter behind them.

"It's behind us. Chris made his thoughts very clear and we're all disappointed that he's not playing," Malthouse said.

"I don't think there has to be a message. The AFL has delivered a message (at the Tribunal)".

Chris Yarran has been sent directly to the AFL Tribunal after being charged with striking Essendon veteran Paul Chapman during the first quarter of the Blues' 21-point loss at the MCG.

Chris Yarran has been suspended for three matches after he was found guilty of intentionally striking Essendon's Paul Chapman in the first Tribunal hearing for the 2015 season.

Yarran's case was sent straight to the Tribunal by the Match Review Panel after being graded intentional conduct, high impact and high contact.

The Blues' half-back pleaded guilty at the start of the hearing at AFL House and received a one-match discount as a result from the jury.

Yarran claimed there were exceptional and compelling circumstances, arguing Chapman had motioned to headbutt him and elbowed him in the ribs.

"It wasn't my intention to hurt Paul, who I respect enormously, and I'm very sorry for it," Yarran said.

"I'd like to apologise to the Carlton supporters and I look forward to getting out in three weeks' time with my teammates and hopefully getting a few wins on the board."

Chapman was called to give evidence via phone link in response to Yarran's claims of provocation, but the veteran Bomber said he didn't recall head-butting his opponent.

"There was no headbutt thrown by me, if there was head contact it wasn't intentional," Chapman said.

"I've just watched the video and I saw nothing that was even close to head contact.

"You don't expect to cop a punch in the head like that."

Chris Yarran can't explain why he 'uncharacteristically' lashed out and punched Essendon opponent Paul Chapman during Saturday's 21-point defeat, Carlton coach Mick Malthouse says.

Meanwhile, Chapman has refuted any suggestions he provoked the first-quarter stoush with a racial slur.

In a behind-the-play incident, the pair pushed and shoved on the southern wing at the MCG before Yarran threw a left hook, which missed, before he landed with a second shot above Chapman's right eye.

Blood streamed from the veteran Don's face as he ran from the field, and Chapman later had to be substituted out of the match for 20 minutes while he had a concussion test.

In his post-match media conference, Malthouse said Yarran was at a loss to explain the fiery clash.

"It's quite uncharacteristic. He just said things happen. He said he didn't know why, how and that's the way it is," Malthouse said.

"He said 'I can't believe I would have even …'. That's how it's panned out but it certainly wasn't preconceived.

"At the end of it he was really still staggered how things happened."

Chapman, who had stitches above his right eye after the game, defended his reputation when speaking to Triple M post-match.

"It was just one of those things on the field - a bit of push and and shove and (it) got a little bit angry," he said.

"I don't know how (he) got me or whether he threw one, but I just felt one on the head.

"I've heard a little rumour that I've been saying things about people's race or colour or whatever.

"That's ludicrous - I wouldn't mind knowing who's brought that out and saying that stuff, because that's just not right and not the sort of person I am.

"It's a little bit disappointing ... what happened, happened."

Chris Yarran signs a two-year with Carlton, tying him to the club until the end of 2016.

"Chris has worked really hard this year and is playing some of the most consistent football of his career. At only 23, his football maturity is starting to take shape," Carlton football manager Andrew McKay said.

"He offers us some real versatility, while his pace adds an extra dimension and element of excitement to our team."

Michael Jamison says Chris Yarran is back in contention for selection after drawing the ire of coach Mick Malthouse for having a poor attitude.

"Mick's very big on not punishing guys over and over, so (Yarran) missed that game and he'll be back hopefully this week," Jamison said.

"He'll certainly play. He's available for selection. He'll train today and see how he goes."

Carlton president Stephen Kernahan defends coach Mick Malthouse's decision to drop Chris Yarran from the side due to poor body language.

"The club demands a level of excellence. He didn't meet that last Friday night, and he's paid the price. I think it's fair to say the coach has made a pretty strong statement," Kernahan said.

"We'd love to have 'Yaz' out there today, because it suits him beautifully the fast track, but we're trying to get this club up and going and it wasn't acceptable what happened last week. Disappointing."

Chris Yarran is dropped for Carlton's clash against Hawthorn after this week apologising to teammates and coaches for poor body language during Carlton's loss to Essendon last week.

Chris Yarran apologises for poor body language after being named as a substitute against Essendon.

"He clearly didn't have the right body language. We all know that; it's no use hiding that. He is the first to admit it," Collingwood coach Mick Malthouse said.

"He is very remorseful about being in a position where he hasn't taken on board the team theme. And he fully acknowledges it.

"He will be far better for this. The club will be far better for this. It's a learning curve for all."

Two Collingwood members face an indefinite ban over allegations they racially abused Carlton player Chris Yarran during the Magpies' clash with the Blues.

"We have been advised of the seat numbers of the two club members who allegedly racially vilified the Carlton player," Collingwood chief executive Gary Pert said.

"Several members of the crowd have claimed the language was highly offensive and we are now making contact with other members who may have been within earshot.

"Our position on vilification is absolute. If the allegations are proven, memberships of the offenders will be cancelled indefinitely."

Running defender Chris Yarran has signed a new contract tying him to Carlton until the end of 2014.

"I'm just rapt to get the deal done and I'm really looking forward to two more exciting years with this club," Yarran said.

"Now that it's done I'm just rapt to be a Carlton Blue for another two years. I love it here and I'm hoping to finish my career as a one-club player."

Carlton speedster Chris Yarran's return from a turf toe injury will depend on how he recovers from this week's running session.

"I strained a ligament just underneath my big toe," Yarran said.

"I started running yesterday and it felt pretty good. I'll train tomorrow and see how it pulls up after that. I'm pretty confident at the moment, but there's certain boxes I've got to tick throughout the week."

Chris Yarran says he wants to play a more active role in the midfield next year by working hard during the pre-season to take his game to the next level.

"Ratts (coach Brett Ratten) spoke about it after the season, that I might play in the midfield next year, and I've just got to get my fitness base up to a whole new level and go from there," Yarran said.

"I played a lot of midfield in my younger days and if I can get the footy next to (Chris) Judd and (Marc) Murphy that will be magnificent. I reckon I am up to it. Just give me one more pre-season and we will go from there."

Carlton ensures young forward Chris Yarran will stay with the club until the end of the 2012 season with a new contract.

"It's great for me that the coaches have the faith in me for another two-year deal and I was rapt when I got it," Yarran said.

"Hopefully I can return the favour and play some good footy toward the end of this year and in the two years to come. I love Carlton. It's such a good club and I wouldn't want to be anywhere else."

Carlton youngster Chris Yarran is relishing the chance to play in a forward-line with fellow indigenous stars Eddie Betts and Jeff Garlett.

"I grew up with Jeffrey, so I have a fair idea on how he is going to play," Yarran said.

"Eddie is a good leader towards us - he took us under his wing since we got to the club. It is good to have us three in the side and it was a special moment for all of us to just contribute really well on the day."

Carlton coach Brett Ratten is pleased with Chris Yarran's performance against Richmond earning him a rising star nomination.

"He worked extremely hard, particularly when he didn't have the ball, and his defensive pressure was important," Ratten said.

"He has worked really hard over the off-season and has a real appreciation of what is required to succeed at this level, particularly on the defensive side of his game. Chris's big challenge now is to back it up."

Carlton forward Chris Yarran has earned an NAB AFL Rising Star nomination for his three-goal effort against Richmond.

Yarran says he has learnt to play together with fellow Blue forward Eddie Betts despite having similar game styles.

"It's pretty good. We do communicate a lot on the field. Around the stoppages we go one in, one out," he said.

"We don't really get in each other's way. We get the ball to each other a lot and hopefully we can keep doing it."