Across those four finals the Lions have used 35 different players, meaning almost two full teams have come and gone. Only 11 players have taken the field in every grand final, showing just how much the list has turned over.

Coach Chris Fagan says his distinctive style has been key to ensuring the Lions can both retool and stay in the premiership hunt. His approach keeps the team focused on the same core principles even as individual players change.

Since 2024 the Lions have kicked the ball more than any other side in the competition and have finished each season in the top two for clearance difference. Their emphasis on kicking and winning clearances lets them control the game despite roster shifts.

The combination of a clear game plan, a coaching philosophy that stresses consistency, and statistical dominance in ball use explains why the Lions keep reaching grand finals, even when most of the squad is different from year to year.