We should have seen Essendon’s uprising coming – and the reason why helps explain two other fringe Melbourne-based finals contenders not meeting external expectations.
Carlton’s superstar defender is set to become one of the highest-paid players in the AFL after St Kilda informally pitched him a bumper multi-year deal.
From teaching special education in Wangaratta,to starring for the AFL’s reigning premiers – Joe Richards has taken the long road to the AFL.
Carlton are the front-runners to secure Sydney free agent Will Hayward as clubs circle out-of-contract Blues forward Jack Martin amid a salary-cap juggle at Ikon Park.
Geelong started the season with a long list of free agents to sign,but it won’t change the wait and see approach that has served them well when it comes to their veterans.
Richmond,Western Bulldogs and North Melbourne are among seven clubs that loom as major movers and shakers in this year’s player movement sweepstakes.
Geelong free agent Jack Henry is close to coming to terms with the Cats on a long-term contract,after strong interest from rival clubs,headed by North Melbourne.
The AFL is close to developing a model for how the wages of players medically retired due to concussion will be included in the salary cap.
Geelong have re-signed the first of their out-of-contract young stars,with speedy midfielder Max Holmes committing to the Cats for four more years. Meanwhile,injury to an important Hawks defender has complicated talks for a new deal.
North Melbourne may need to contemplate trading the No.1 pick again to address their extreme key-position shortage and avoid adding to their problematic midfield logjam.
Dustin Martin’s seven-year mega contract at Richmond expires this year,and since 2022,if not earlier,Gold Coast have been mooted as the logical destination for Dusty if he wanted out. But does he?