A potentially surprising development has emerged from Essendon, with reports indicating that Zach Merrett is in preliminary discussions regarding a contract extension. This comes less than four months after his highly publicized attempt to join Hawthorn fell through during the 2025 AFL Trade Period.
The news, first reported by AFL Media on , suggests a possible shift in Merrett’s outlook regarding his future with the Bombers. His current deal is set to expire at the end of 2027, and talks have reportedly taken place both before and after the Christmas break.
Merrett’s trade request last October stemmed, in part, from frustration with Essendon’s lack of recent success and a perceived lack of connection with the club. He lost a little bit of love and connection he had for the footy club,
he told the Herald Sun in November. The Bombers ultimately held firm, refusing to meet the Hawks’ offer of picks 10 and 22, a future first-round selection, and young midfielder Henry Hustwaite in exchange for Merrett and a future third-round pick.
The fact that discussions are now underway raises questions about whether Merrett has reconsidered his position, or if Essendon has presented a compelling vision for the future that has rekindled his commitment. The Bombers’ injury woes last year undoubtedly played a role in his initial desire for a change, but a potential turnaround in the team’s fortunes could be a factor in his willingness to explore a new deal.
Smith Faces Licence Suspension
Away from the contract negotiations, Geelong midfielder Bailey Smith is facing a potential suspension of his driver’s licence after being caught speeding last month. According to the Herald Sun, Smith was clocked at 125 kilometers per hour near his Bellbrae home in Victoria’s Surf Coast region during the recent bushfires.
Smith reportedly expressed concern for his 5.8-hectare property and the welfare of the animals residing there as the reason for his haste. However, the incident is expected to result in a three-month licence suspension, exceeding his demerit point allocation.
This is not Smith’s first brush with controversy. He was previously involved in a Mad Monday incident last year, posting inappropriate content on social media about veteran AFL journalist Caroline Wilson, leading to the cancellation of future Mad Monday celebrations by the Cats. He also faced fines for abusive behavior towards a Geelong Advertiser photographer and for making an obscene gesture towards a fan.
Injury Concerns Mount for Adelaide
Adelaide’s pre-season preparations have been dealt a significant blow with the confirmation of a broken leg for defender Mark Keane. Keane sustained the injury during a match simulation session on , landing awkwardly on his right ankle after attempting a spoil.
The Crows have confirmed that Keane will require surgery and is expected to be sidelined for three to four months. This is a major setback for Adelaide, as Keane enjoyed a career-best season last year and was expected to play a key role in their defensive lineup.
Keane’s injury adds to the Crows’ growing injury list, with young gun Daniel Curtin already ruled out for the season after dislocating his kneecap in a wrestling drill. The team is now facing a significant challenge to bolster their defensive stocks ahead of the 2026 season.
Wardlaw Under Injury Cloud
North Melbourne midfielder George Wardlaw’s pre-season has hit a snag, with the young gun leaving a match simulation session early on with a suspected hamstring complaint. While initial reports suggest the injury may not be serious, Wardlaw will undergo scans on , to determine the extent of the damage.
Wardlaw has a history of hamstring issues, including a high-grade tear last January that sidelined him for the first six rounds of the 2025 season. The Kangaroos are expected to take a cautious approach with his recovery, potentially ruling him out of upcoming practice matches. His availability for Round 1 remains uncertain.
In brighter news for North Melbourne, the club is reportedly considering offering a training opportunity to Sturt product Zac Becker, a defender who was named his club’s Best & Fairest runner-up last year. Becker could fill the list spot vacated by Jackson Archer, who is sidelined for the season with an ACL injury. The deadline for signing SSP players is .
