Demonland

MELBOURNE B: D.Turner, S.May, C.Salem HB: T.Rivers, J.Lever, J.Bowey C: E.Langdon, J.Viney, X.Lindsay HF: B.Fritsch, B.Mihocek, K.Chandler F: J.Melksham, H.Petty, J.van Rooyen FOLL: M.Gawn (c), J.Steele, K.Pickett I/C: C.Windsor, H.Langford, T.Sparrow, K.Tholstrup, C.Jiath EMG: B.Howes, J.Culley, M.Jefferson Key ins: Jack Steele, Brody Mihocek, Changkuoth Jiath, Max Heath Key outs: Christian Petracca, Clayton Oliver, Judd McVee Jack Billings, Charlie Spargo WE SAY: A world of list change at the Demons during trade and free agency to kickstart a new era under Steven King. The addition of Jack Steele helps fill the midfield void left by premiership pair Christian Petracca and Clayton Oliver. Plenty of others options to roll through there including Trent Rivers, Caleb Windsor and Harvey Langford all set for more on-ball time. Brody Mihocek brings his own flag-winning pedigree in the forward half and Changkuoth Jiath provides handy dash off half-back. The loss of Judd McVee leaves a void in defence. Steven May returns after he wasn’t able to find a new home during the trade window. But it wouldn’t be a shock if King begins to look past the veteran defender, with the potential for Harrison Petty to return to the backline. Max Heath also joined the club as ruck cover for Max Gawn and we expect Heath to be just that. Two top 10 draft picks to come in as well.

Richo:

Looking good It’s Week Two of Pride Round and the Demons will don their specially designed guernseys at the Field of Dreams this Saturday. Sure, we’ll be looking good — but don’t expect a celebration just yet. With finals looming, it’s business first. With only three matches remaining, the ladder is tighter than a contested stoppage. Melbourne (7-2) sits third, clinging to a Top 4 spot with Brisbane, Carlton, and Adelaide breathing down our necks. Sydney (5-4) is perched in ninth, just outside the eight, but with a real shot at finals. This is a clash with consequences — a true test of the pecking order. The Match-up The Demons return to our happy hunting ground Casey Fields, where we’ve won 78% of our matches. But recent form has been patchy. A shock loss to Fremantle last week has raised eyebrows — and perhaps a few voices in the review room. Mick Stinear will be demanding a response. He’ll also be keen to get one over his old mate Scott Gowans. The pair are one-all in their coaching duels, and this third meeting could be their sliding doors moment — a result that shapes the road to November. Sydney, meanwhile, are flying high after a 39-point demolition of Carlton. The Swans have rediscovered their strut, led by the midfield brilliance of Montana Ham, Laura Gardiner, and Tanya Kennedy. Montana Ham was electric last week, earning 9 coaches votes. And draftee Zippy Fish has started her AFLW career brilliantly, averaging nearly 22 disposals per game — she takes the kick-outs too. Ally Morphett looms large in the ruck and will test Loz Pearce and the Demons’ stoppage structures. Melbourne starts favourites ($1.53) largely because of home ground advantage. The Swans will be coming for us; we need a lift in #demonspirit this week. Selection this week But the big news? Chloe Molloy is out with back soreness. The Swans’ talisman and spiritual leader will be sorely missed. Without her, Sydney’s forward line loses its spearhead — and Melbourne’s defenders breathe a little easier. The Demons’ injury list is finally easing (or is it?). Tayla Harris, tough as teak, is expected to play despite bruised ribs. Shelley Heath (finger), Saraid Taylor (hamstring), and Sarah Lampard (calf) are all listed as tests and hopefully return. Irish star Blaithin Mackin is just a week away, and Georgia Gall’s ankle injury isn’t as bad as first feared. Meggs counts 26 fit players — a selection headache, but the good kind. Meggs’ musings Expect the leadership group — Kate Hore, Tyla Hanks, Maeve Chaplin, Eliza McNamara, Paxy Paxman, and the returning Sarah Lampard — to set the tone. Kate, in particular, has extra motivation. She’s locked in a goal-for-goal race with North Melbourne’s superstar Jas Garner, both sitting on 96 career goals. The race to the ton is on. Could this be the week our skipper hits the ton first? You wouldn’t bet against her at Casey. This match could go down to the wire. The Swans are scrapping for a finals berth. The Dees are desperate to lock in a double chance. It’s a hen fight at the Field of Dreams — and the winner takes a significant step up the ladder. Because in Season 10, it’s all about the Pecking Order. C’mon Dees! Tip: Melbourne by 13. Dees to bounce back, dazzle in rainbow, and clip the Swans’ wings. THE GAME Round 10: Melbourne v Sydney, Saturday 18 October 2025 at 1:05pm (AEST) at Casey Fields, Melbourne – Wurundjeri/Boon Wurrung HEAD TO HEAD Overall: Melbourne 0 wins | Sydney 0 wins At Casey Fields: Melbourne 0 wins | Sydney 0 wins Coaches: Stinear 1 win | Gowans 1 win MEDIA COVERAGE Foxtel, Kayo, Binge, AFL Live Official Listen App THIS WEEK’S TEAMS (to be loaded when available) MELBOURNE B [28] Saraid Taylor, [171 Tahlia Gillard HB [18] Sarah Lampard, [13] Maeve Chaplin, [23] Sinead Goldrick C [22] Elizabeth McNamara, [5]Tyla Hanks [4] Paxy Paxman, HF [12] Ryleigh Wotherspoon, [6] Alyssa Bannan, [24] Megan Fitzsimon FF [7] Tayla Harris, [29] Eden Zanker FOLL [15] Lauren Pearce, [30] Shelley Heath, [10] Kate Hore I/C [1] Georgia Campbell [19] Laela Ebert, [33] Lily Johnson, [11] Molly O'Hehir [43] Jemma Rigoni EMG [32] Gabrielle Colvin [3] Alyssia Pisano, [18] Denby Taylor IN Shelley Heath, Sarah Lampard, Saraid Taylor OUT Gabrielle Colvin (omitted), Georgia Gall (ankle), Denby Taylor (omitted) SYDNEY SWANS B [26] Lara Hausegger, [20] Brenna Tarrant HB [17] Ash Van Loon, [8] Alice Mitchell, [9] Lucy McEvoy C [23] Zippy Fish, [10] Cynthia Hamilton, [12] Lulu Pullar HF [29] Tanya Kennedy, [30] Alexia Hamilton, [16] Sarah Grunden FF [2] Holly Cooper, [7] Ally Morphett FOLL [27] Giselle Davies, [31] Laura Gardiner, [18] Montana Ham I/C [11] Jas Grierson, [41] [15] Paris McCarthy Darcy Moloney, [13] Caitlin Reid, [6] Ruby Sargent-Wilson EMG [3] Kiara Hillier, [21] Amelia Martin, [19] Rebecca Privitelli IN Giselle Davies OUT Chloe Molloy (back) Injury List: Round 11 Melbourne Tayla Harris — ribs / Test Shelley Heath — finger / Test Sarah Lampard — calf / Test Saraid Taylor — hamstring / Test Georgia Gall — ankle / TBC Blaithin Mackin — calf / 1 week Grace Beasley — knee / 3 - 4 weeks Olivia Purcell — knee / Season Jacinta Hose — knee / Inactive Aimee Mackin — knee / Inactive Sydney Swans Imogen Brown — back / 1 Week Chloe Molloy — back / 1 week Sofia Hurley — quad / TBC Maddy Collier — ankle / Season Julie O’Sullivan — ACL / Season

Richo and Jonesy right now …

MELBOURNE Who left: Charlie Spargo (free agent, North Melbourne), Judd McVee (trade, Fremantle), Clayton Oliver (trade, GWS Giants), Christian Petracca (trade, Gold Coast) Who arrived: Max Heath (trade, St Kilda), Brody Mihocek (trade, Collingwood), Changkuoth Jiath (trade, Hawthorn) Draft picks owned: 7, 8, 37, 66, 71, 84, 102 Leigh Montagna says: “It’s strong. I like what Melbourne have done. Steven King has come in and he’s stamped his mark on this football club and said: ‘Right, this is what we’re going to do. I no longer want Clayton Oliver at the club, I want to move on from Christian Petracca, I want a fresh slate, we’ve still got strong leaders with Gawn and Viney and Jake Lever leading the way.’ They get to bring in some depth players, Mihocek is going to help significantly with van Rooyen down there with Melksham and Fritsch. And they’re going to get more draft picks again with top-end talent for the third consecutive year that can continue to build around the five to seven kids they already have.” David King says: “Really smart from Steven King. He’s bringing in players that are going to give him that bridging period until these youngsters absolutely take hold of this football club — guys like Windsor and Tholstrup and Lindsay and Langford, plus those high picks. It’s going to be a dip over the next couple of years, but it’s a calculated dip. It’s a guy coming in with real presence, ‘this is my football club now, this is where we’re going, put culture first’. Yeah it’s cost them some money, no doubt it has … and I’m not sure about the Steele acquisition, but you’ve got the opposite of Clayton Oliver. That’s basically what they’ve found. Really strong from Melbourne.” Foxfooty.com.au’s trade grade: B- ADELAIDE CROWS Who left: Nil. Who arrived: Finnbar Maley (trade, North Melbourne) Draft picks owned: 16, 48, 55, 64, 73, 75, 93, 111 David King says: “They needed Clayton Oliver more than any other club, for me, if they are to be a genuine contender. In the second half of the season, they were 16th for clearance differential in the AFL. When Rankine wasn’t there, they looked pedestrian. They needed another option for that midfield and they didn’t take the risk when others around them have — that’s the bottom line. GWS’ gain is Adelaide’s loss … I can’t really believe they haven’t bolstered that midfield.” Leigh Montagna says: “I would’ve thought Jack Steele would’ve been a good fit, that big defensive mid who could tackle and allow Dawson and Rankine to do their thing. They were pretty strict in what they wanted to do and they haven’t been able to land much at all.” Foxfooty.com.au’s trade grade: D BRISBANE LIONS Who left: Brandon Starcevich (trade, West Coast Eagles) Who arrived: Sam Draper (free agent, Essendon), Oscar Allen (free agency, West Coast) Draft picks owned: 17, 23, 44, 51, 59, 68, 79, 97, 115 Jon Ralph says: “They don’t always get them right, the free agency acquisitions — they brought in Tom Doedee, who’s played one game in a couple of years — so that’s the only caveat there with Oscar Allen and Draper coming in. Essendon never offered a great deal fro Draper because they believe the history of ruckman off an Achilles tear is they never really get their jump back … That’s the only little asterisk.” Leigh Montagna says: “They’re in Seat 1A going into 2026. They want for nothing. They’ve brought in Draper and Oscar Allen and they’ll bring in a top-five draft pick, potentially, with the academy pick (Daniel Annable) — and they’re in the box seat. It’s only going to be motivation or injuries that will really slow them down next year. They didn’t really need to do much … They do lose Starcevich, who will be a big out with his ability to shut down the best small-medium forwards in the competition, will be missed. But they’ve got enough depth there to be able to cover that.” David King says: “They are the envy of the competition. You look at the guys who’ve played 50 to 80 games — that’s where the real growth comes from — now they’re establishing themselves, there’s confidence in their body and what they can do gameday … they’ve got an unbelievable window in front of them. It’s exciting if you’re a Brisbane fan.” Foxfooty.com.au’s trade grade: B+ CARLTON Who left: Corey Durdin (trade, Port Adelaide), Charlie Curnow (trade, Sydney) Who arrived: Liam Reidy (trade, Fremantle), Campbell Chesser (trade, West Coast), Ben Ainsworth (trade, Gold Coast), Ollie Florent (trade, Sydney), Will Hayward (trade, Sydney) Draft picks owned: 9, 11, 43, 54, 67, 72, 87, 105 Jon Ralph says: “It does give Carlton an amazing arsenal, not only to secure Harry Dean and Jack Ison, but also Cody Walker next year. We know it’s a year where there will be bidding changes, so you might almost need two first-rounders to secure him as a top-two pick. If you’re Carlton, you have the now in terms of the players they’ve brought in, but they also have the future in the shining light upon the hill that is Cody Walker and Harry Dean, who should play 20 games next year. It’s not Curnow, but it is a pretty damn fine deal.” David King says: “It’s a big reset now. Carlton fans, you’re starting again, really. Not absolute ground zero, but that to me just signals that they’ve got five top-30 picks in the last five years, there’s trauma coming, they’re trying to get ahead of it now with trading Charlie Curnow and I think this has got Graham Wright’s fingerprints all over it … I think it puts a real challenge now to Michael Voss to make this work. You’re losing a gun to get some bits and pieces … they’re not going to solve the problems of tomorrow.” Leigh Montagna says: “Their team will look completely different next season … They’ve got some skill and more talent. For me, they’re probably still depth players. I don’t know if it’s really going to change the fortunes of the Blues too much, but it certainly adds depth and running and kicking.” Foxfooty.com.au’s trade grade: B+ COLLINGWOOD Who left: Brody Mihocek (trade, Melbourne) Who arrived: Jack Buller (trade, Sydney) Draft picks owned: 39, 45, 56, 61, 77, 95, 113 David King says: “They were very quiet. It’s hard to be critical of Collingwood, they’ve been so good for the last few years. They’ve got the gun in the middle Nick Daicos, (but) they probably need to find him more support at some point. I know they’ve been trying to get (Beau) McCreery come through and maybe be that player. At some point, it will tip over when you look at the age of their list. But is that 2026? I’m not convinced, I’m not sure of that … I just feel like they’re the one club that’s probably the most desperate for a Zak Butters at the end of next year. I think that’s where they’ll channel their energy.” Jon Ralph says: “Which is why they didn’t give up (first-round) picks for Jy Simpkin in the end … I think the only thing you would say about them, is that it’s confusing to think they were trying to have a crack at moving on Jordan De Goey, and have a crack at Jy Simpkin — there’s only a two-year age gap. The Collingwood view is, if de Goey was going to get a big, fat contract he never really secured, this was the time where both club and player were really open and mature about it. But, for them to shop him in any way, I think gives you some question marks over where they sure his body and his longevity and durability.” Foxfooty.com.au’s trade grade: C- ESSENDON Who left: Sam Draper (free agent, Brisbane) Who arrived: Brayden Fiorini (trade, Gold Coast) Draft picks owned: Picks 5, 6, 21, 27, 30, 83, 101 Leigh Montagna says: “There’s still an intrigue because we need to see them fit and healthy and what it can actually look like if Brad Scott has the full list to choose from. They just haven’t had that in recent years. There’s too many players on that list that get injured too often to give them a chance. They’re going to get two really good players early in the draft then they’ve got some academy prospects potentially after that that might work in their favour … But it’s going to be tough for them.” Jon Ralph says: “This could’ve been footy’s greatest trainwreck. They could’ve lost four or five of their senior players, including their captain (Zach Merrett), including (Jordan) Ridley, including (Darcy) Parish, including (Kyle) Langford. They have lost their president, they could’ve had a coup over the next couple of months. Instead right now — yes there’ll be some challenges, but they’ve got 12 months to reset. They’ve got an elite fitness and strength and conditioning program in. I think so much of the next six months is: “What have you got for us Brad Scott? What have you got for us to make other players into the Archie Roberts’ of the 2026 season? Where is (Archie) Perkins at? Where’s Tsatas at? Where’s Ben McKay at? … There are so many players there who come into this team and look like they have some talent and they either stagnate or regress.” Foxfooty.com.au’s trade grade: D+ FREMANTLE Who left: Liam Reidy (trade, Carlton), Will Brodie (trade, Port Adelaide) Who arrived: Judd McVee (trade, Melbourne) Draft picks owned: 20, 47, 69, 90, 103, 108 David King says: “I think McVee’s a good acquisition. I think he’s a constant threat, I don’t think we’ve seen the best of this player. He can play a variety of roles. I’m not sure he’s an elite ball user, but maybe doesn’t have to be at Fremantle with the way they operate and the way they move the ball. But I like the fact they’re pretty settled.” Leigh Montagna says: “They’ve had a couple of big trade periods in recent years with Luke Jackson and Shai Bolton, so to be able to target a specific need — and that’s another half-back to support Jordan Clark — I think they’ve done pretty well … they can be contending (for the premiership), absolutely.” Jon Ralph says: “A full year from Hayden Young and a better year from Jye Amiss is probably all they’ll get as well as of course McVee coming through.” Foxfooty.com.au’s trade grade: B- GEELONG CATS Who left: Patrick Retschko (trade, Richmond) Who arrived: James Worpel (free agent, Hawthorn) Draft picks owned: 19, 40, 60, 78, 96, 99, 114 David King says: “We look at Geelong and think: ‘When will they tip over? How can they keep doing this?’ … Worpel is a sneaky good improvement for their list. It does allow, with his midfield time, (Patrick) Dangerfield to play more forward. They’ll just keep doing what they do. What a fantastic organisation they’ll be.” Leigh Montagna says: “They’ll make it work in the ruck. Stanley and Blicavs, yes they’re getting on in age, but between the two of them they can probably share the load. Toby Conway got back late in the season, there’s still a lot of high hopes on him. I know he’s had injury troubles, but if he can have a full pre-season, between those three guys they could alternate, rotate — however Chris Scott does it. I don’t think not having Rowan Marshall keeps them from being in contention to win a premiership next year.” Foxfooty.com.au’s trade grade: C- GOLD COAST SUNS Who left: Malcolm Rosas Jnr (trade, Sydney), Sam Flanders (trade, St Kilda), Ben Ainsworth (trade, Carlton), Connor Budarick (trade, Western Bulldogs), Brayden Fiorini (trade, Essendon) Who arrived: Jamarra Ugle-Hagan (trade, Western Bulldogs), Christian Petracca (trade, Melbourne) Draft picks owned: 15, 18, 24, 28, 29, 36, 52, 92, 110 Leigh Montagna says: “The beauty of them being able to trade out Picks 7 and 8 is they didn’t need those picks; they’ve got all the points to still land three, potentially four Academy picks in the top 20-25. And two of them will be in the top five; they are getting two of the best young kids in the country on top of Petracca and Ugle-Hagan. Obviously, Ugle-Hagan is the big one. The chasm between what his potential could be and what the ramifications could be if it doesn’t work out is significant — but you take a look at the upside and it’s a pretty scary proposition.” David King says: “I think what Jamarra brings, they (the Suns) don’t have. I don’t think they’ve got a roaming centre-half-forward that hits the wings, who glides across the top of the grass and scoots, has a beautiful left leg on him. He’s a five-mark-a-game player, Jamarra, at his best. I know we’re talking about his best, we’re selling high — they (didn’t) have that (before trading for Ugle-Hagan). (Ben) King doesn’t do that, (Jed) Walter doesn’t do that, (Ethan) Read doesn’t do that. So, what this guy does is different. So, I love it, it’s worth the gamble — absolutely it is — you back your culture in … there’s no middle ground (in terms of off-field missteps), these are the rules. I don’t think there is any grace. Damien Hardwick is not (going to) play favourites here — these are the rules, you follow them and we both win. If you don’t, you’re out, we move on.” Foxfooty.com.au’s trade grade: A GWS GIANTS Who left: Jacob Wehr (free agent, Port Adelaide) Who arrived: Clayton Oliver (trade, Melbourne) Draft picks owned: 12, 35, 91, 109 Leigh Montagna says: “My view is I don’t think he’s going to be the All-Australian midfielder anymore; he doesn’t have to be. He’s still a very solid inside contest and clearance winner. His numbers still stack up pretty well in the competition, so he’ll complement the other guys, how he works with Tom Green will be interesting, and I still think they’re going to be around the mark again, the Giants.” David King says: “First half of the year they were the third-worst clearance differential team in the competition — it sounds ridiculous when you look at some of the names in there — but I think what it (the arrival of Oliver) does do is it allows it not to be Callaghan and Green at all times. You can get some respite. We’ve seen the luxury of that with (Patrick) Dangerfield being able to play more forward (at Geelong) with Bailey Smith and moving the magnets. So, I think you’ll get a healthier version of those guys come later in the year.” Foxfooty.com.au’s trade grade: B+ HAWTHORN Who left: James Worpel (free agent, Geelong), Changkuoth Jiath (trade, Melbourne), Jai Serong (trade, Sydney) Who arrived: Nil Draft picks owned: 10, 22, 62, 76, 94, 112 David King says: “He’s entitled to be furious, Zach Merrett. No doubt Hawthorn would have said: ‘We’ll get this deal done. We’ve got enough picks, we’ve got enough talent on our list that we’ll be able to satisfy the Bombers’ — and they haven’t done that. I think it puts a real dent in their premiership aspirations for next year … Merrett into that line-up (would’ve) changed the whole mix and dynamic of what they do ball in hand. I think it’s a real blow for the Hawks tonight – I really do. When you look at every team in that top bracket of six to eight, they’re looking for that one player, that one extra asset that tips them over the edge into premiership contention — and I think the Hawks have left one on the table tonight.” Leigh Montagna says: “Everyone else around them — when you talk about the contenders — improved their list going into next season, except for Hawthorn. In fact they’ve lost a bit of depth. It’s what happens when you try and go for the big fish. They went for Harley Reid, they had a crack at Oscar Allen, they’ve gone for Zach Merrett … but if it doesn’t come off, it’s left them (without one). Now maybe they’re going to put all their eggs in the Zak Butters basket for next year.” Jon Ralph says: “I think Zach Merrett will continue to be the same Zach Merrett he’s been. He’ll be their best player and he still should lead by example. No doubt he’s going to feel somewhat sheepish walking back into the club for the first week … but football clubs are pretty forgiving places. They’ll shake hands, get to work and worry about the business that needs to be done on winning games of football.” Foxfooty.com.au’s trade grade: D NORTH MELBOURNE Who left: Finnbar Maley (trade, Adelaide) Who arrived: Charlie Spargo (free agent, Melbourne) Draft picks owned: 25, 26, 46, 57, 82, 100 Leigh Montagna says: “Very quiet. It’s for me about their culture and ability to learn to win and learn to play better football as a group for longer. We know they have talent, that’s indisputable, they just have to put it together. They have to be able to start to build a fabric of a club that are going win games consistently.“ Jon Ralph says: “Jy Simpkin had 33 touches and 730 metres gained in that last game against Adelaide as a wingman. That’s the reason they kept him. Yes, because he’s the captain – not next year – but he has been the captain. And they feel like he can play that role. Zane Duursma wanted to get to Essendon but it was never going to happen as a top four pick. My understanding is he’s hired a personal trainer. He understands instead of getting out there with Harley Reid and having some nice nights out over summer, get yourself absolutely rock hard fit. If you’re that mid-forward, you need to be more athletic than the player who’s playing on you, you need to be a supreme athlete. Hopefully the penny has dropped for him across the summer … they missed on Marcus Windhager and Connor Budarick – they’re not superstar players, of course the A-graders don’t want to come to them. At some stage they need to top off this list.” David King says: “I know it’s difficult to attract talent to clubs struggling. One of the pledges Alastair Clarkson made when he was appointed as senior coach was they would be in the hunt for free agents and try and find some stars. If you look at the last few years, the names that have come in have been underwhelming and haven’t had a massive impact. At some point that needs to change if you are to make a move up the ladder. It’s not going to necessarily just going to be because of those guys. They’ve had 14 top 30 picks over the last five years, so there’s enough talent there. But they need the support crew.” Foxfooty.com.au’s trade grade: D+ PORT ADELAIDE Who left: Nil Who arrived: Jacob Wehr (free agent, GWS Giants), Corey Durdin (trade, Carlton), Will Brodie (trade, Fremantle) Draft picks owned: 49, 85 David King says: “I just think this is about to fall off a cliff, this list. Three top-30 picks in the last five years have come in. They’ve done a lot of trading and got a whole handful of nothing if you ask me. We all talk about Rozee, Butters and Horne-Francis — outside of that, Georgiades obviously, what else is there? I think they’re in for a lot of pain to come and they’re about to plummet, if you ask me.” Leigh Montagna says: “They don’t want a rebuild, they’ve said that, but what are they doing with their list? That’s going to be the big question this season.” Foxfooty.com.au’s trade grade: C- RICHMOND Who left: Tylar Young (trade, West Coast Eagles) Who arrived: Patrick Retschko (trade, Geelong) Draft picks owned: 3, 4, 38, 81 David King says: “They’ve been unreal over the last four years, they’ve got 12 top 30 picks that have come into the place. It’s like watching the Paris fashion week when they unveil their top-line draftees! We’ve seen quite a few of those guys. I just think that they’ve make a conscious decision as a football club, and they’re sticking to it. I like this, I think this is a strong football club that knows what winning premierships is all about … I’m a fan.” Jon Ralph says: “Retschko is a rookie who was delisted by Geelong on October 2. He then was, I assume, re-listed. Richmond wanted him, they’ve traded pick 99 for him. A hard-running utility (but) we know stuff-all about him … but we wish Patrick Retschko well in his new career at the Tigers!” Foxfooty.com.au’s trade grade: C ST KILDA Who left: Max Heath (trade, Melbourne), Jack Steele (trade, Melbourne) Who arrived: Tom De Koning (free agent, Carlton), Jack Silvagni (free agent, Carlton), Sam Flanders (trade, Gold Coast), Liam Ryan (trade, West Coast) Draft picks owned: 50, 65, 86, 104 Jon Ralph says: “No one is ever accepting a handshake deal from Graeme Allan ever again after the Leek Aleer deal. It’s cost Leek Aleer $2 million … I totally understand St Kilda can do whatever they want to do and be as ruthless and hard-arse as they want. But the AFL players out there would say: ‘You want us to reduce long-term contracts and trade us against our will and not have destiny for our own situations?’ That’s the thing … I think if they wanted to get him they would’ve and maybe they just fell out of love with him. It was fairly callous, but it’s a ruthless industry.” David King says: “They’re happy to be the villains. They’re a strong footy club, they’re ruthless in a lot of ways, their coach embodies that. I think it’s gone unnoticed, the injury toll, in 2025 and where they sat on the ladder in terms of games lost to injury … They only need a little bit of luck, with the additions they’ve got during this trade period, to really spike up the ladder. What threshold that is is up for conjecture, but I think they’ll make a move next year.” Leigh Montagna says: “They’ve executed their plan perfectly this trade period — and they’ve got exactly what they wanted out of it.” Foxfooty.com.au’s trade grade: A SYDNEY SWANS Who left: Ollie Florent (trade, Carlton), Jack Buller (trade, Collingwood), Will Hayward (trade, Carlton) Who arrived: Malcolm Rosas Jnr (trade, Gold Coast), Jai Serong (trade, Hawthorn), Charlie Curnow (trade, Carlton) Draft picks owned: Picks 31, 32, 42, 63, 88, 106 David King says: “I think they’ve got more problems behind the ball than in front of it, but it’s a wildcard talent (Curnow). He’s going to kick more goals than what’s there at the moment … He doesn’t miss much footy. He’s going to be a wildcard that could kick 50-plus goals and put them on the map … It’s going to take the pressure off Heeney. Jon Ralph says: “What about the theatre: Lockett, Hall, Buddy, Tippett and now Curnow … Charlie is not going to kick 460 goals, but even if he kicks 250 across the next five seasons, maybe they hoist the flag that Buddy Franklin was never able to achieve in his second incarnation at Sydney.” Leigh Montagna says: “The flow-on effect, Amartey becomes the second tall which suits him better, McLean becomes the second ruck-tall option. With the four talls, I now wonder whether they try Logan McDonald at centre half-back, because they do need someone else behind the ball to support McCartin and Blakey. Logan McDonald hasn’t quite worked as a forward … if he can become another failed forward that goes behind the ball and do a really good job, that could be the difference for the Sydney Swans to compete for the flag.” Foxfooty.com.au’s trade grade: A- WEST COAST EAGLES Who left: Oscar Allen (free agency, Brisbane), Liam Ryan (trade, St Kilda), Campbell Chesser (trade, Carlton) Who arrived: Brandon Starcevich (trade, Brisbane Lions), Tylar Young (trade, Richmond) Draft picks owned: 1, 2, 13, 34, 41, 53, 58, 80, 80, 98 Leigh Montagna says: “They had a mantra they wanted to try and get some more senior bodies in there, just to help bridge the gap. They’re still a long way off, we understand that. So to get Starcevich really helps and Tylar Young — and now they’re going to get the two best kids in the country as well to continue to build on what they’ve got. Harley Reid has committed long-term, so it’s going to be a slow burn but at least the wheels are slowly starting to turn.” Foxfooty.com.au’s trade grade: B WESTERN BULLDOGS Who left: Jamarra Ugle-Hagan (trade, Gold Coast) Who arrived: Connor Budarick (trade, Gold Coast) Draft picks owned: 14, 33, 70, 74, 89, 107 David King says: “I said about six weeks ago that Sam Power’s biggest challenge was to give this coach a key defender that he could put that magnet on the board, and with some sort of confidence, drive to the game knowing that things will be okay. They haven’t done that, and they’ll be in the same position at the end of 2026. And the same position every year after … I’m staggered by this. I can’t believe that the Dogs have had to manufacture Rory Lobb, who was great (in his) first year down back, but not so much this season just passed. I think it’s a big fail for the Dogs … We’ve seen Buku Khamis down there. They’ve lost confidence in Buku, they’ve lost confidence in (Jedd) Busslinger, Jones is no longer there. We’ve talked about this every week; they refused to move an (Aaron) Naughton down back. Do you have to change the way you want to play? That’s changing the coach’s philosophy, because you can’t get a deal done to acquire some key talent.” Leigh Montagna says: “Maybe, now that they don’t have the personnel change, they’re going to have to change the way they play to be able to stiffen up defensively. Otherwise, they’re not going to continue to compete against the top eight teams … (but) I trust Luke Beveridge. I think he’ll understand what was missing from them last year, and maybe it’s going to be a game-style change instead of the personnel — because they weren’t able to get it done.” Foxfooty.com.au’s trade grade: D

IN: Max Heath (St Kilda), Changkuoth Jiath (Hawthorn), Brody Mihocek (Collingwood), Jack Steele (St Kilda), Picks 7, 8, 24, 37, 42 (FA compo), 71, 2026 GCS 1st round, 2026 GWS 3rd round, 2027 GCS 3rd round OUT: Judd McVee (Fremantle), Clayton Oliver (GWS), Christian Petracca (Gold Coast), Charlie Spargo (North Melbourne), Picks 24 (on-traded), 28, 42 (on-traded), 61, 2026 Melb 2nd, 3rd and 4th round, 2027 Melb 3rd and 4th round DRAFT HAND: 7, 8, 37, 66, 71 SUMMARY: Hard to sum the Demons up. They landed a huge bounty for one superstar in Petracca but gave Oliver away for next to nothing and will still be paying a fair whack of his hefty contract, while having no takers for veteran full back Steven May is not necessarily a negative. They paid nothing for star recruits Steele and Mihocek and now have two top 10 picks as well, while Jiath is an apt replacement for McVee. GRADE: B IN: Finnbar Maley (North Melbourne), Pick 64 OUT: Picks 57, 2026 Adel 4th round DRAFT HAND: 16, 48, 55, 64, 73, 75 SUMMARY: A quiet trade period for the Crows, who missed the chance to grab a dual premiership player who wanted to join the club because they were unwilling to pay pick 16. Maley gives them another back-up forward, but the club is obviously satisfied with the list that took them to the minor premiership. GRADE: D IN: Oscar Allen (West Coast), Sam Draper (Essendon), Picks 17, 23, 44, 51, 59, 2026 Melb 3rd round OUT: Brandon Starcevich (West Coast), Picks 19, 45, 46, 52, 56 DRAFT HAND: 17, 23, 44, 51, 59, 68, 79 SUMMARY: The dual reigning premiers get even stronger. The Lions add a key forward and a ruckman to their list, albeit both coming off season-ending injuries, while they retain plenty of points to match a bid on Academy star Dan Annable. They would have preferred not to farewell dual premiership defender Starcevich but holding firm on Callum Ah Chee is a win at this stage. Does he still want to leave and take the risk of 13 clubs picking him before the Crows have a selection? GRADE: A+ IN: Ben Ainsworth (Gold Coast), Campbell Chesser (West Coast), Ollie Florent (Sydney), Will Hayward (Sydney), Liam Reidy (Fremantle), Picks 9, 10 (FA compo), 11, 22 (FA compo), 31, 42, 43, 54, 67, 72, 2026 Syd 1st round, 2027 Syd 1st round OUT: Charlie Curnow (Sydney), Tom De Koning (St Kilda), Corey Durdin (Port Adelaide), Jack Silvagni (St Kilda), Picks 10 (on-traded), 22 (on-traded), 31 (on-traded), 41, 42 (on-traded), 50, 68, 2026 Carl 2nd and 3rd round, 2027 Carl 2nd round DRAFT HAND: 9, 11, 43, 54, 67, 72 SUMMARY: An extremely busy couple of weeks for the Blues, but they have clearly made the best of their situation, gaining maximum return for the stars who wanted out, both in free agency and trades. They held out long enough for Sydney to pay a King’s ransom for Curnow, landing a more than capable goalkicker plus three first-round picks, while Ainsworth is an upgrade on Durdin and gives them a more versatile front half. Florent will also walk into their best 23 and Chesser has ability if he can get himself fit. Heaps of points for Harry Dean as well. The mark is only downgraded by the players who walked out. GRADE: B IN: Jack Buller (Sydney), Picks 45, 56, 61, 2026 Melb 3rd round, 2026 Syd 4th round OUT: Brody Mihocek (Melbourne), Picks 59, 71, 2026 Melb 3rd round (on-traded) DRAFT HAND: 39, 45, 56, 61, 77 SUMMARY: Not much to speak about at the Magpies, with rumours of a Jordan De Goey departure coming to nothing while they also held firm on not paying too much for Jy Simpkin. They would be saddened to farewell premiership forward Mihocek, but in Buller they have a much younger replacement who will be given the chance to bed down a regular spot in the team. GRADE: C IN: Brayden Fiorini (Gold Coast), Pick 21 (FA compo) OUT: Sam Draper (Brisbane Lions), Pick 2026 Ess 3rd round DRAFT HAND: 5, 6, 21, 27, 30 SUMMARY: The Bombers declared from Day 1 that they had no interest in letting their captain go despite his keenness to get to arch-rival Hawthorn, although the Hawks couldn’t have fired a better shot at dragging him out. Fiorini gives them a ball-winning midfielder to ease some pressure on Zach Merrett, while they have two top six picks and will no doubt have a throw at the stumps in trying to shift up a bit further. Five picks inside 30 gives them a good chance to reset. GRADE: B- IN: Judd McVee (Melbourne), Picks 20, 23, 47, 50, 69, 103 OUT: Will Brodie (Port Adelaide), Liam Reidy (Carlton), Picks 12, 23 (on-traded), 33, 44, 50 (on-traded), 53, 71 DRAFT HAND: 20, 47, 69 SUMMARY: Managed to lure a young defender home just as he enters the prime of his career, while helping a couple of depth players find what are likely to be more AFL opportunities. The question is whether they have done enough to take the next step from finals to premiership contenders? GRADE: C IN: James Worpel (Hawthorn), Pick 99 OUT: Patrick Retschko (Richmond) DRAFT HAND: 19, 40, 60, 78 SUMMARY: It’s a rare trade period where the Cats don’t land what they want, but this is one of those. Wanted Rowan Marshall and Charlie Curnow but were not willing to put up the collateral to get the job done, and given the star pair were contracted, they were never going to come as cheap as Bailey Smith and others in recent seasons. Worpel adds steel and depth to the midfield, but it’s much of a muchness for Geelong (which means it will still be one of the teams to beat in 2026). GRADE: C IN: Christian Petracca (Melbourne), Jamarra Ugle-Hagan (Western Bulldogs), Picks 7, 24, 28, 29, 37, 52, 70, 2026 Melb 2nd round, 2026 Ess 3rd round OUT: Ben Ainsworth (Carlton), Connor Budarick (Western Bulldogs), Brayden Fiorini (Essendon), Sam Flanders (St Kilda), Malcolm Rosas (Sydney), Picks 7 (on-traded), 8, 37, 62, 70 (on-traded), 74, 2026 GCS 1st round, 2027 GCS 3rd round DRAFT HAND: 15, 18, 24, 28, 29, 36, 52 SUMMARY: The Suns didn’t sit on their hands after their maiden finals appearance, bringing a genuine superstar into the club, while also getting a free hit at a supremely talented but troubled key forward to provide support to Ben King and Jed Walter. Apart from Rosas, their departures are all best-23 players, so they will need to be replaced, but they have oodles of points to bring in their three highly touted Academy products, and the room to slot them straight into the AFL team if they are ready to go. GRADE: A- IN: Clayton Oliver (Melbourne), Pick 12 OUT: Jacob Wehr (Port Adelaide), Picks 14, 37, 2026 GWS 3rd round DRAFT HAND: 12, 35 SUMMARY: Wow. Despite doing basically nothing before the death knell apart from moving up two spots to help the Bulldogs get their man, the Giants landed one of the biggest bargains of the trade period by picking up a four-time best-and-fairest winning star for a half-eaten pie and a can of coke. That alone makes these 10 days a big win for the Orange Army. GRADE: A IN: Picks 10, 22, 42, 43 (FA compo), 2026 Melb 4th round OUT: Changkuoth Jiath (Melbourne), Jai Serong (Sydney), James Worpel (Geelong), Picks 9, 31, 42 (on-traded), 43 (on-traded), 2026 Haw 4th round DRAFT HAND: 10, 22, 62, 76 SUMMARY: Missed out on their No.1 target in Zach Merrett, but they couldn’t have fired a better shot to make it happen. Jiath has ability but was out of the best 22 late in the year, Worpel costs them a bit of depth but opens the door for Henry Hustwaite once Essendon decided not to take him and they landed an extra first-round pick in a swap with Carlton. GRADE: B- IN: Charlie Spargo (Melbourne), Picks 57, 2026 Adel 4th round OUT: Finnbar Maley (Adelaide) DRAFT HAND: 25, 26, 46, 57 SUMMARY: Not much to report from Arden St, with Spargo’s free agency acquisition being a more than solid addition to their forward line and an upgrade on Maley, who was not certain to gain another contract anyway. There are plenty of detractors to the fact the Kangaroos don’t have a first-round pick this year (and they tried to get a couple back for Jy Simpkin – which was never going to happen), but give Matt Whitlock time before jumping to conclusions – most experts say he would have been taken much higher than 27 if he was in this year’s crop. GRADE: C IN: Will Brodie (Fremantle), Corey Durdin (Carlton), Jacob Wehr (GWS), Pick 2026 Carl 2nd round OUT: Picks 29, 67, 103 DRAFT HAND: 49 SUMMARY: The Power didn’t bring a lot in, either in players or draft picks, although all three recruits should be in the 23 in round one. They basically have no role to play in this year’s draft either, so they will need organic growth to jump back into premiership contention in 2026. GRADE: D IN: Patrick Retschko (Geelong), Pick 38 OUT: Tylar Young (West Coast), Pick 99 DRAFT HAND: 3, 4, 38 SUMMARY: The Tigers were never expected to be a big player given their bumper haul from 2024, and the pick they gained for Young is likely to come in once the Academy and father-son bids swallow up a host of picks belonging to the Suns, Lions and Blues – and they can help do that by launching multiple early bids with their two top-five picks. Retschko is a free hit given Geelong had already let him go. GRADE: C+ IN: Tom De Koning (Carlton), Sam Flanders (Gold Coast), Liam Ryan (West Coast), Jack Silvagni (Carlton), Picks 2027 WCE 3rd round, 2027 Melb 3rd and 4th round OUT: Max Heath (Melbourne), Jack Steele (Melbourne), Picks 7, 2026 StK 2nd round DRAFT HAND: 50, 65 SUMMARY: The Saints put all chips in on free agency and trading and landed everything they wanted. Holding onto Rowan Marshall when Geelong couldn’t produce a fair offer for a contracted ruckman means De Koning’s arrival should reap full reward. Gave their loyal and dedicated captain away for next to nothing, but Flanders slots straight into his spot. Ryan and Silvagni make both ends of the ground stronger. Longer term, however, what does their stunning backflip on Leek Aleer do to their hopes of recruiting in future seasons? GRADE: A- IN: Charlie Curnow (Carlton), Malcolm Rosas (Gold Coast), Jai Serong (Hawthorn), Picks 31, 42, 62, 2026 Carl and Coll 3rd round, 2026 Haw 4th round, 2027 Carl 2nd round OUT: Jack Buller (Collingwood), Ollie Florent (Carlton), Picks 11, 51, 69, 2026 Syd 1st, 3rd and 4th round, 2027 Syd 1st round DRAFT HAND: 31, 32, 42, 63 SUMMARY: Wanted a big key forward, got him. Wanted a key defender, got him. But at what cost? Three first-round picks and a 184-game forward who has kicked 157 goals in the past five seasons is a big price to pay and puts pressure on Curnow to deliver immediately. Florent was also sold cheaply and will walk into Carlton’s best team. Sydney clearly (and correctly) believes its time is now and has gone all out to cash in on that brilliant midfield. While saddened at the departures, Swans fans can salivate at the thought of Errol Gulden, Chad Warner and Isaac Heeney delivering to Curnow and a fit Logan McDonald week-in-week-out. GRADE: A- IN: Brandon Starcevich (Brisbane Lions), Tylar Young (Richmond), Picks 2 (FA compo), 13, 34, 41, 53, 2026 StK 2nd round OUT: Oscar Allen (Brisbane Lions), Campbell Chesser (Carlton), Picks 16, 22, 23, 38, 2027 WCE 3rd round DRAFT HAND: 1, 2, 13, 34, 41, 53, 58 SUMMARY: A dual premiership defender comes in and the Eagles have the top two selections and another inside 15 in this year’s draft. Despite the loss of co-captain Allen, who barely played this year anyway, it is a positive result for the wooden spooners and gives them a chance to step up their rebuild. Should they listen to offers from Essendon or others for one of those top picks? Definitely, but it would want to be good. GRADE: B+ IN: Connor Budarick (Gold Coast), Picks 14, 37, 70, 74 OUT: Jamarra Ugle-Hagan (Gold Coast), Picks 12, 37 (on-traded) DRAFT HAND: 14, 33, 70, 74 SUMMARY: The Bulldogs didn’t find the big defender they were looking for, although Budarick strengthens that part of the ground for a simple drop of two spots in the first-round draft order. They were happy simply to get Ugle-Hagan off their books, but surprisingly didn’t get a suitable offer for Buku Khamis, which won’t hurt their depth either. GRADE: C

With the AFL Trade Period having just wrapped up, I wanted to reach out given a lot has transpired, particularly in the last few hours. We are pleased with the players we have been able to attract and the first-round draft picks we have acquired. We are now in a strong position as we continue to build towards our next premiership. We have been able to secure one of the strongest draft hands in recent memory, which will give us the opportunity to bring in some elite young talent. We received three first-round draft picks in exchange for Christian Petracca, which gives us eight first-round selections across a four-year period from 2023 to 2026. We now enter next month’s draft with picks No. 7 and 8, which will allow us to add quality new talent, for the years ahead, particularly as the competition expands to include Tasmania. We have welcomed four quality players in Brody Mihocek, Max Heath, Changkuoth Jiath and Jack Steele, adding a mix of seasoned AFL experience, leadership qualities and exciting youth to our list. We feel this will complement our existing playing group and have an immediate impact for us next season. At the same time, we farewelled four players in Christian Petracca, Clayton Oliver, Judd McVee and Charlie Spargo. Each has given so much to the red and blue over their respective journeys, and we wish them nothing but the best for the future. They are forever Melbourne people and will always be welcome at the club. In relation to Christian and Clayton, while it is difficult and somewhat sad to part ways with players of their calibre and contribution, ultimately, we always enter this time of year with the club’s future success at the heart of all decision-making. They have been champions of our club, and we wish them well. We are incredibly confident in where we have landed, bolstering our draft hand while fulfilling Christian’s and Clayton’s requests for a fresh start. With the Trade Period now complete, and next month’s AFL Draft fast approaching, I hope you can start to feel the excitement that is building within our AFL program. I know Alan, Steven and the entire football department are eager to implement all they have been working on in recent weeks, and to welcome back a group that is committed and determined to take this great club back to the top. Whilst the last week, in particular the last few hours, have been a whirlwind, I hope our commitment to keeping you informed throughout has resonated. Thanks for your ongoing support. Go Dees, Paul

Part Three: Thanks for The Memories I found myself seated on a couch in the Oval Office, opposite a coffee table littered with Big Mac wrappers, empty Coke cans, and crumpled KFC buckets. Scattered across the floor were multiple copies of The Art of the Deal, as if casually placed for dramatic effect. In the corner, a man dressed in traditional robes stood from a prayer mat, nodded politely, and exited in silence. Without missing a beat, the President dismissed the visiting Saudi crown prince with a belch and a wave. “Say hi to the wives, Mohammed,” he said. “And don’t forget—we’ve got that Egypt meeting next week to wrap up the Middle East peace deal and finalize the golf resort in Riyadh.” Then he turned to me, narrowing his eyes. “So… who are you, man?” The panic inside surged, but I somehow managed to get my words out: I was on a mission to track down the elusive Melbourne football superstar, Christian Petracca, and convince him to return with me. “You’re from Australia? No way!” he said. “I once hung out with Ivana there… just kidding, it was a riverboat on the Danube. Gorgeous castles. Looked like a Disney movie. Here, have a chicken wing.” After gently correcting his geography, he poured me a neat whiskey to calm my nerves and launched into an impromptu monologue about marsupials and his Australian fiscal adviser—a man who believes a nation’s economy can be tracked through the price of a large McDonald’s fries. Eventually, he circled back to the matter at hand. His Australian associates—Mr. Kanga and Mr. Roos—were waiting outside to be buzzed in. But first, some pressing international business. “Call the Latvians. I’m slapping a 10% tariff on their automotive industry. Effective midnight.” A pause. “What? They don’t have an automotive industry? Fine. Put it on Bulgaria instead and make it 15%. Take it or leave it, buddy. And send a bottle of our best champagne and a box of Havana cigars to Bibi. Now send in the Aussies.” They entered the room like characters from The Blues Brothers—sunglasses on, boots polished, radiating theatrical flair, minus the dance moves and musical talent. I recognized Roos immediately—a familiar figure from years past. I recalled he’d lived in the U.S. with his American wife. Naturally, he led with football: “I’m the strategic thinker behind the ‘no dickheads, no disruptors’ policy. We’ve resolved the Petracca and Oliver situation. They’re out. We stage managed their exit with the media and brought in fresh talent—solid citizens committed to the Demons, who won’t break the salary cap, and have no social media presence.” He ticked off names with confidence.“Jack Steele and CJ are both humble and unassuming characters. Big Maxy Heath—can’t cook, but who cares? Brody Mihocek goes to church on Sundays when he’s not playing. Plus, a bag of draft picks to play with. Your recruiting team are going to feel like pigs in shit. “So bid a fond farewell to those departing, send your appreciation for their past deeds, thank them for the memories and wish them success in their future pursuits. Tell them you’re embarking on a new trajectory, unencumbered by nostalgia for past accomplishments and no longer looking backwards”. The President nodded in approval, noting how the approach was considerably more elegant than in his father’s day—when favours might’ve involved a quiet word with the Gambino family. Then Kanga stepped in to outline the business model: “We’ve secured a new home base—prime real estate opposite Caulfield Station and right near the racetrack. Top-notch potential for training facilities. The only catch? It’s currently a parking lot. But development’s no problem—we’ve got the finance lined up. There’s a minor hiccup in transferring some real estate in the south east to make way for the Trump Casey Country Club, but it’s nothing we can’t handle.” And just like that, my time in the Oval Office ended. I was ushered out onto Pennsylvania Avenue—disoriented, slightly buzzed, but filled with renewed hope because, after all, there’s always next season. Maybe, just maybe, 2026 will be our year. Go Dees!