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Sport: Australian FootballCategory: Trades

Zach Merrett joins Hawthorn following trade from Essendon

AFL • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 5, 2026, 5:17 AM

Last updated Oct 5, 2026

Zach Merrett joins Hawthorn following trade from Essendon
Summary

Zach Merrett is officially a player for Hawthorn after a trade agreement with Essendon on October 5, 2026. The deal includes Hawthorn surrendering draft picks 15, 25, and a 2028 second-round pick. This trade comes a year after Merrett's previous attempt to join the Hawks fell through. Merrett recently achieved his seventh Crichton Medal and completed a successful season with 23 games played.

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AFL
Market Watch
  • •Merrett leaves Essendon after a standout season.
  • •He signed a four-year deal worth $4 million.
  • •Trade talks accelerated after warning from Bombers president.
  • •Merrett is a three-time All-Australian and former captain.
Latest Updates
  • 5:17 AMAFL — Finally! Merrett gets trade wish after Hawks, Bombers agree to deal
What they're saying
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Zach Merrett joins Hawthorn in a trade from Essendon

Related Teams & Leagues
Australian Football

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