We were glad to see big steps taken this week in the Australian Football League (AFL). Through all of this, 21-year-old phenom Humphrey is attracting a ton of interest as he heads toward an important physical exam with a suitor. Humphrey is presently under contract through the end of 2028. He was recently spotted talking with Steven King and Nathan Jones in Melbourne which set fire to speculation about his future.
As Humphrey prepares for his medical, he needs to get his clearance from the AFL. This procedural move is an essential first step for any real change to happen. Further, it illustrates the current trends in player movement, as teams continue to construct their rosters in anticipation of next season.
Meanwhile, Clayton Oliver, another prominent figure in this trade period, has set his sights on a move to Greater Western Sydney (GWS). Oliver pictured above, right, at a recent Zoom meeting with Collingwood list manager Justin Leppitsch. This just goes to show his willingness to jump headfirst into new challenges. His enigmatic social media interactions have people asking questions. He tweeted a picture with the caption “talking 2026” plus an eyes emoji, further stoking the flames of speculation around his goals.
The Gold Coast has a big hand in writing this story as no. 23-year-old Jamarra Ugle-Hagan is due to take a medical today. Ugle-Hagan having already interviewed with the Suns earlier this month suggests that talks are underway about how best to facilitate his move.
Liam Baker posted a photo reunion with his old roommates, Dustin Martin and Josh Caddy. He appeared alongside West Coast coach Andrew McQualter in this exciting development. This photo has a special place in our hearts due to the unfortunate timing of Martin’s announcement to retire at the conclusion of the 2024 season. His mooted connection to Gold Coast post-retirement only adds to the already simmering year-long trades.
The coaching landscape is changing quickly. Andrew McQualter was only recently appointed to his job at West Coast after a stunningly successful run as a top assistant coach at Richmond. Whatever the reasons are behind it, his influence should be felt in the DOT’s direction going forward.
“We were looking at someone who was committed to getting himself back to playing football.” – Craig Cameron
Just like these movements, once the dust settles, AFL fans can finally see how these trades will help them, their team win the next AFL premiership. Those next few weeks will be a critical time. Players will choose their last moves, and clubs will finalize their rosters for next year.
