Brief
Zach Merrett trades from Essendon to Hawthorn on four‑year deal
Merrett, a seven‑time best‑and‑fairest, says he is ready for a fresh start as the Hawks chase premierships.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Zach Merrett confirmed on Wednesday that his move from the Essendon Bombers to Hawthorn has been finalised, ending a 13‑year stint with the Bombers. The 31‑year‑old midfielder said he is "waiting to get booted" from the Bombers' WhatsApp group and looks forward to a new chapter at the Hawks.
Merrett was dealt to Hawthorn on Monday in exchange for draft picks No. 15 and No. 25 this year and a future second‑round selection. The trade concluded a year‑long saga that saw the two clubs negotiate repeatedly before reaching an agreement. Merrett received a call from Essendon president Andrew Welsh on a treadmill at a local gym, thanking him for 274 games of service.
He has signed a four‑year contract worth $1 million per season with Hawthorn, joining a side that has reached consecutive preliminary finals and is targeting a premiership. Merrett highlighted the club’s stable coaching environment under Sam Mitchell and the opportunity to learn and develop, including potential coaching aspirations after his playing career.
Speaking at the launch of the Caulfield Cup carnival, where he serves as an ambassador, Merrett said he had discussed his future with Mitchell during the State of Origin clash in Perth in February and was not overly stressed about the move. He added that the Hawks’ strong talent pool and recent finals appearances made the decision appealing.
Merrett reflected on his time at Essendon, thanking the club for handling the trade respectfully and noting his seven best‑and‑fairest awards. He also mentioned the personal relationships he maintains with former teammates, including a recent hug with Sam Durham after the trade was confirmed.
Key facts
- Zach Merrett was traded from Essendon to Hawthorn in exchange for picks 15, 25 and a future second‑round pick. (smh.com.au)
- Merrett signed a four‑year contract worth $1 million per year with Hawthorn. (smh.com.au)
- He played 274 games for Essendon and won the club's best‑and‑fairest award seven times. (smh.com.au)
Sources
- [1] smh.com.au — originally reported as “AFL 2026 trading and drafting: Zach Merrett on leaving the Essendon Bombers to make a fresh start at Hawthorn”
