https://www.nine.com.au/sport/afl/news-2026-captains-standing-down-lachie-neale-zach-merrett-oscar-allen-jy-simpkin-20260102-p5nrcq.html
Jan 2, 2026 - This AFL off-season has proven to be a tumultuous one for club captains, with Lachie Neale now the fifth who has stood down, with more changes possible....
afl newslachie nealezach merrettjoinsfellow
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-11-26/afl-zach-merrett-steps-down-as-bombers-captain/106053918
Nov 26, 2025 - Zach Merrett steps down as Essendon men's captain after his failed trade request to Hawthorn left his position untenable.
zach merrettgivesbombersaflcaptaincy
https://www.theage.com.au/sport/afl/zach-merrett-knew-leaving-essendon-was-a-long-shot-but-he-tried-anyway-he-explains-why-20251120-p5nh83.html
Nov 23, 2025 - Merrett’s request to leave Essendon for Hawthorn was the talk of trade period, but a deal didn’t get done. He explains why he’s excited to be back and...
zach merretttraderequestbomberscaptain