AFL 2026: Contract Drama, Injury Concerns and the Future of List Management
The AFL pre-season is already delivering storylines, with contract negotiations, injury setbacks, and emerging talent all grabbing headlines. Recent developments surrounding Zach Merrett, coupled with injury woes for Adelaide and North Melbourne, highlight the evolving challenges facing clubs as they prepare for the 2026 season.
Merrett’s Future: A Shifting Landscape
Just months after a failed trade request to Hawthorn, Zach Merrett is reportedly in preliminary talks regarding a contract extension with Essendon. This comes as a surprise to some, given Merrett’s previously expressed frustrations with the club. He had “lost a little bit of love and connection he had for the footy club,” as he stated to the Herald Sun. The fact that discussions are occurring at all suggests a potential shift in dynamics, though the underlying issues that prompted his trade request likely haven’t vanished.
This situation underscores a growing trend in the AFL: player agency and the willingness to explore options even after publicly committing to a club. The league has seen several high-profile players seek new homes in recent years, including Charlie Curnow and Christian Petracca. Merrett’s case is particularly interesting, as his initial desire to leave stemmed from a lack of finals success and the club’s injury struggles.
Injury Clouds Loom Large
The pre-season has already delivered a harsh reminder of the physical toll of AFL football. Adelaide’s Mark Keane is facing three to four months on the sidelines with a broken leg, a significant blow to their defensive stocks. This setback follows a knee injury to Daniel Curtin, further depleting the Crows’ depth. Keane’s injury occurred during match simulation, highlighting the risks associated with pre-season intensity.
North Melbourne is also dealing with injury concerns, with George Wardlaw leaving a match simulation early with a hamstring complaint. Whereas the initial hope is that the injury isn’t serious, Wardlaw’s history of hamstring issues raises concerns. The Roos are taking a cautious approach, and he is not expected to play in upcoming practice matches.
These injuries emphasize the importance of robust injury prevention strategies and the demand for clubs to develop strong depth in key positions. The increasing demands of the game, combined with the intensity of pre-season training, are contributing to a higher incidence of injuries.
The Supplemental Selection Period: A Lifeline for Clubs
North Melbourne is exploring the Supplemental Selection Period (SSP) to address their list needs, with Sturt product Zac Becker given the opportunity to train at Arden Street. This follows an ACL injury to Jackson Archer, which has ruled him out for the 2026 season. The SSP provides clubs with a chance to add players outside the draft and trade periods, offering a lifeline for teams facing unexpected roster challenges.
The SSP has become an increasingly important tool for clubs, allowing them to identify and recruit overlooked talent. It also provides opportunities for players who may not have been drafted or traded to showcase their skills and earn a spot on an AFL list.
FAQ
Q: What is the Supplemental Selection Period (SSP)?
A: The SSP allows AFL clubs to sign players outside of the draft and trade periods to fill list vacancies.
Q: Why are players requesting trades even after signing contracts?
A: Players are increasingly prioritizing their own career goals and seeking opportunities at clubs where they believe they can achieve greater success.
Q: How are AFL clubs addressing the rising incidence of injuries?
A: Clubs are investing in injury prevention strategies, strength and conditioning programs, and developing greater depth in their squads.
Did you recognize? The Bombers rejected a significant trade offer from Hawthorn for Zach Merrett, including multiple draft picks and a player.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the SSP as it often uncovers hidden gems and provides opportunities for players to break into the AFL.
What are your thoughts on Zach Merrett’s potential contract extension? Share your opinions in the comments below!
