The Melbourne Demons had a notably disappointing 2025 season, finishing 14th with just seven wins, leading to the sacking of premiership-winning coach Simon Goodwin. The club’s core stars, including Max Gawn, Christian Petracca, and Clayton Oliver, are aging and may be uncertain about their future at the club. This underperformance, combined with internal tensions among senior players, signals a pressing need for a strategic rebuild focused on rejuvenating the midfield and strengthening leadership to restore competitiveness[1].
A realistic off-season blueprint for Melbourne should prioritize acquiring a dynamic inside midfielder to complement or eventually replace aging stars like Oliver and Petracca. This aligns with the Demons’ traditional tactical style that emphasizes contested ball winning and midfield dominance. Additionally, Melbourne must address leadership voids exposed by the departure of Goodwin and the questionable influence of senior players, aiming to cultivate emerging leaders who can foster cohesion and resilience on and off the field[1].
Defensively, Melbourne’s struggles suggest a need for a reliable rebounding defender capable of initiating counterattacks, fitting the Demons’ game plan that relies on quick transitions from defense to offense. This positional upgrade would help alleviate pressure on the backline and support the midfield’s ball movement. Given salary cap constraints typical in the AFL, Melbourne should focus on strategic trades and draft picks rather than high-cost free agents, targeting young talent with upside and players who fit seamlessly into the club’s culture and tactical framework[1].
The Demons’ off-season strategy must also consider the aging profile of their key players, balancing short-term competitiveness with long-term sustainability. Investing in youth development and integrating promising draftees into the senior side will be critical. This approach respects budget limits while building a foundation for future success. The club’s recent form and internal issues underscore the urgency of this rebuild, as retaining star players will depend heavily on demonstrating a clear and credible path back to finals contention[1].
In summary, Melbourne’s off-season blueprint should focus on revitalizing the midfield with young, contested ball winners, reinforcing leadership, and shoring up defensive transitions, all within the constraints of the AFL salary cap. This targeted approach aligns with the club’s tactical identity and addresses the key weaknesses that led to their 2025 underperformance, setting the stage for a return to competitiveness in the near future.