Talented Brisbane utility Nakia Cockatoo has announced his retirement from the AFL after a career plagued by injuries.

The 26-year-old produced 49 senior games across nine seasons for both the Lions and Geelong.

The Marrithiyel, Iwaidja and Yupangathi man was a talented junior who was originally selected by Geelong with pick 10 in the 2014 AFL Draft.

Cockatoo showed glimpses of his talent during his time at the Cats but suffered with persistent injuries.

He managed 32 senior games in his first three years but registered just a further two over the following three seasons.

The Territorian was traded to the Lions at the end of the 2020 season in the hope of revitalising his career.

Unfortunately, he would suffer injury reoccurrences and struggle with continuity in his footy.

Cockatoo played 15 games in his new colours but ultimately struggled to break into the strong Brisbane team.

After being delisted at the end of 2022, he regained his spot through the rookie draft but failed to make a senior appearance this year.

Brisbane Lions Football Manager Danny Daly held high praise for the luckless retiree.

"Nakia is one of the nicest people you could meet in football and has been a much-loved member of our club that will be missed," Daly said.

"Being a top-10 pick highlights the potential and talent Nakia had as a footballer, but unfortunately for him injuries and his body provides challenges throughout his career.

"However, to play 49 games of AFL football, including some of those being finals, is something he should still be very proud of.

"We wish Nakia and his family all the best with their life after football and thank him for his service to the Brisbane Lions."