Overview

• Reports confirmed Zach Merrett met Hawthorn coach Sam Mitchell on Tuesday as he explores his options following Essendon’s poor season.
• Coach Brad Scott said he was surprised by the meeting but declared Merrett "will not be traded under any circumstances" and maintained he can remain captain.
• CEO Craig Vozzo echoed the no-trade stance and criticised rival approaches to contracted skippers, saying any leadership decision will be shaped by players and likely deferred into early 2026.
• AFL.com.au reporting indicates Hawthorn is preparing a proposal built around pick No. 8 and other draft assets, though Essendon has publicly ruled out a deal.
• Multiple outlets report Merrett’s interest in a move is driven by premiership ambitions, while Essendon greats have urged him to clarify his intentions.