Daniher chose to exercise his free agency rights with a lifestyle change a key factor in the decision. 

The Lions lodged the paperwork with the AFL to secure the 200cm, 95kg left footer on the opening day of the AFL free agency period.

The 26-year-old joins the club on a three-year deal.

He is considered to be among the top key forwards in the game having booted 191 goals from 108 games for the Bombers since making his debut in 2013.

His best season came in 2017 when he kicked 65 goals to earn All Australian selection and claim the Bombers’ best and fairest.

General Manager of Football David Noble said it was a major coup for the Lions to add such a respected player to their list. 

“Joe is exactly the type of player we were looking to add to our list,’’ he said.

“He is a quality person and highly respected player who will compliment our forward line.

“He also fits perfectly within the age bracket we are looking for, at 26-years-of-age he brings experience to our playing group and we also believe his best years are ahead of him.

“And we would like to take this opportunity to thank Essendon and his management team at TLA for their professionalism regarding the process of Joe’s move to our club.”

Daniher said he was excited about the next chapter of his AFL career and was looking forward to getting to know the Lions playing group.

“The chance to play for Essendon is something I dreamt about and aspired to growing up,’’ he said.

“I’ve made lifelong friendships there and it has helped shape me as a person. I’m forever grateful to them and look forward to seeing them progress under Truck.

“The move to Brisbane is a new challenge I’m really looking forward to. I can’t wait to relocate to Queensland, get to work with my new teammates and coaches and build relationships across the club”.