Merrett Wins Sixth Crichton Medal Amid Trade Meeting

Essendon captain Zach Merrett won his sixth Crichton Medal — his third consecutive best-and-fairest — amid intense speculation over his future after meeting with Hawthorn officials despite being contracted through 2027. He acknowledged the “complexities and uncertainty,” apologised to fans, said he respects the club’s desire to retain him while gathering information for the best decision for his career and family, but stopped short of committing to remain. Essendon has publicly signalled it is unlikely to trade its captain, while coaches and teammates offered support and urged the playing group to focus on the off-season. Incoming president Andrew Welsh called for unity and a strong future for the club. Merrett is widely expected to formally request a trade when the AFL Trade Period opens, and pundits say Hawthorn would instantly become premiership favourites if they landed him.