Key defender Ethan Phillips of Hawthorn is one of the players without a contract for 2025.
Still, AFL Media reports that St. Kilda and Carlton may be interested in him, so his AFL dreams may not be over.
The 25-year-old, who began the season with the Hawks, carries on a storied heritage of promising VFL talent. His elevation to the elite level was recognized when he was awarded the Fothergill-Round-Mitchell Medal.
Hawthorn’s affiliate Box Hill had Phillips as a consistent player, and he was given an opportunity to play in the AFL when James Blanck‘s knee injury ended his season.
After losing in the semi-final, Sam Mitchell and his group decided to focus on signing new players right away. Hawthorn has already signed Josh Battle from St Kilda, and Tom Barrass from the West Coast is keen to join the team in 2025.
Despite Sydney and St Kilda’s interest, Sam Frost is probably going to stay put, but Blanck’s return might knock Phillips down the ladder.
Since Phillips has only played in one AFL game, it appears that his future at Hawthorn is unclear. He and former Denver Grainger-Barras, a Pick 6 pick, could be cut.
“Carlton and St Kilda are believed to be interested in adding the 197 cm defender for depth,” reports Josh Gabelich of AFL Media. However, both clubs have other priorities and may not act until the delisted free agency window or pre-season supplemental selection period.
The Blues need to bolster their key defense after releasing Caleb Marchbank, and the Saints want to replace Battle. Meanwhile, the Blues acquired Nick Haynes from GWS.