The Bulldogs are set for a bumper AFL trade period headlined by working through a deal for Port Adelaide superstar Zak Butters, ahead of a 2027 season where the club will have high expectations.
But after seeing off Carlton's advances to keep hold of defender Buku Khamis, the Bulldogs have filled a major area of need by adding 26-year-old Butts.
Adelaide will receive a second-round compensation selection, currently pick No.33, in this year's draft.
"We are thrilled that a player of Jordon's calibre chose to join the Western Bulldogs for 2027 and beyond," Bulldogs list boss Michael Regan said in a statement on Saturday.
"Jordon is a talented and competitive key defender who has proven he can negate and intercept against the best key forwards in the competition.
"His skill-set complements our existing backline, and as a high-quality footballer and person, he'll add to our culture while giving himself and our defensive group the best chance to flourish."
Lockdown defender Butts played 94 games for the Crows across eight seasons, and in 2026 averaged 11 touches, three intercept marks and five spoils a match.
"I am super excited to be joining the Bulldogs and getting to meet all the boys over the coming weeks," Butts said.
"I'm motivated to come into the club and make a difference, continuing to grow as a player and help the team wherever possible, working alongside some really talented individuals.
"There is a lot of excitement and optimism around the club at the moment and I couldn't be more pleased to be a part of it as we chase success together."
Butts has had several injury setbacks throughout his career, but was generally otherwise an important part of Adelaide's defence.
"Jordon has committed eight years of his life to the Adelaide Football Club and that's something we'll forever be grateful for," Crows list boss Jarryd Roughead said in a statement.
"He's been an ever-reliable teammate and someone we'll certainly miss having at the club.
"We wish him all the best for his next chapter."
Butts is the fifth player to find a new home after the free-agency period opened on Friday morning, following Toby Greene (Geelong), Joel Amartey (Carlton), Lachie Neale (Collingwood) and Kieren Briggs (Richmond).
The trade period starts on Monday.
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