Zach Merrett is officially a Hawthorn player.
One of the biggest moves of the AFL trade period was completed on Monday as Essendon agreed to send its former captain to the Hawks, ending a transfer saga that had stretched across two trade periods.
According to the AFL, Hawthorn gave Essendon picks 15 and 25 in the 2026 draft, as well as a second round selection in 2028.
The agreement came quickly on the opening day of the 2026 AFL Trade Period, despite expectations that negotiations between the clubs could become difficult.
For Merrett, the move completes unfinished business.
The 31 year old attempted to join Hawthorn in 2025, but the clubs were unable to reach an agreement. This time, Hawthorn returned with an improved package and secured the deal almost immediately.
Merrett leaves Essendon after 274 games across 13 seasons.
During that period, he became one of the Bombers’ most decorated modern players, winning the club’s best and fairest award seven times and earning three All Australian selections. He also captained Essendon from 2023 through 2025.
His 2026 season showed that he remains among the competition’s leading midfielders.
Hawthorn says Merrett averaged 27.3 disposals per game this season while also producing strong numbers for tackles, marks, inside 50s and score involvements.
The Hawks had reportedly offered Merrett a four year contract worth around $4 million, which would keep him at the club through the end of the 2030 season, according to AFL.com.au.
Hawthorn recruiting and list manager Mark McKenzie described Merrett’s professionalism and competitiveness as major reasons the club wanted him.
The trade gives Hawthorn an experienced elite midfielder as the club attempts to strengthen a team that reached the preliminary final in 2026.
For Essendon, attention now turns to the draft.
The Bombers currently hold picks 1, 15, 19 and 25 among their early selections, giving the club significant draft capital following Merrett’s departure.
After a year of speculation and one failed attempt, Merrett has finally got the move he wanted.
