Ryder was offered plenty of $$$ from GWS a couple of years ago but resisted. He is currently contracted until the end of 2016, so two more years to run. When he signed his latest contract 2 years ago it was reported by the Herald Sun as being for $2million for the 4 years, so lets assume that would be $500,000 a year, would the Lions be offering significantly more than that?
Plus the Lions would also have to come to a trade deal that Essendon would accept, it's not like he is uncontracted and they can force the Bombers hand. Further the Lions have Leuey, Martin and West, even if one goes it still doesn't make much sense, unless they want to use Ryder as a forward. While Paddy is a decent forward he seems to play much better when playing as the sole ruckman.
Next he is from WA, so if he was to move anywhere surely it would be back there one would assume. From all reports Ryder is quite the family man, why would he move his own kid and fiancée to Brisbane instead?
Now there are two other things I have considered. First he is managed by Paul Connors. This is the guy who notoriously manages his players by leaking to the media that other Clubs are interested in paying big bucks for his clients. It is just the way he operates. Is he trying to pump Ryder's wages up after his best season? Secondly Ryder is getting married in North Qld during the off season. Has the reporter added 2 plus 2 to get 8?
Anyway I could be wrong, but my gut tells me I will be watching Paddy play in a red and black jumper next year.