Tom Papley undergoes knee surgery following preliminary final injury

Tom Papley of the Sydney Swans has had knee surgery to address a medial collateral ligament strain he sustained in the preliminary final against Fremantle on September 18, 2026. The injury, caused by a tackle from Dockers defender Karl Worner, would have sidelined him for the Grand Final had the Swans advanced. In addition to this procedure, Papley underwent arthroscopic surgery on his other knee to resolve lingering issues but is expected to be ready for the start of pre-season training in December. The Swans have also retained assistant coaches Amon Buchanan and Nick Malceski amidst coaching changes, including Mark McVeigh's move to Essendon as head coach.

• 4:40 AMAFL — Swans veteran undergoes knee surgery after prelim knock