In striking contrast to last year’s protracted, ugly and ultimately failed move, this year Zach Merrett became a Hawthorn player on the opening day of trade period.

The NRL boss won’t appreciate finishing second in this two-horse race. But the grand final entertainment numbers will make him smile.

After holding Zach Merrett to his contract in 2025, sacking a coach midway through the season and finishing dead last; the time for tough talk at Essendon is well and truly over.

From being medically retired to leading Wiradjuri Aboriginal Rivers to a first title.

Jordan De Goey is open to a move in search of a late-career contract but Collingwood does not expect to deal the midfield-forward or Dan Houston.

Geelong are again chasing St Kilda ruckman Rowan Marshall but are adamant they won't overpay for him.

For all his success this year, James Tedesco is no guarantee to replace Reece Walsh in the Australian fullback jersey in next Thursday’s World Cup opener.

Ryan Lonergan made his debut for the Wallabies in Auckland last year. He returns this week as one of the team’s most important players.

Daly Cherry-Evans’ recruitment, like Cooper Cronk’s in 2018, proved the difference for the Roosters in 2026 as he owned another grand final.

Geelong is all-in on securing Rowan Marshall and another rival defender but is unwilling to sacrifice its prized first-round pick to get the deals done.