Hawthorn has officially welcomed superstar midfielder Zach Merrett to the club on day one of the 2026 Continental Tyres AFL Trade Period. 

The deal sees the Hawks receive the seven-time best and fairest winner in exchange for Pick 15 and Pick 25 in this year’s draft, in addition to a future second-round selection (2028).

The 31-year-old joins the brown and gold following 274 matches across 13 seasons with Essendon, where he earned three All-Australians and captained the Bombers from 2023-2025.

Selected with Pick 26 in the 2013 National Draft, Merrett has also represented Australia in the International Rules Series during his decorated career to date.

This season, Merrett was ranked elite in his position for disposals (27.3) and rebound 50s (2.5) per match, while sitting above average for score involvements (6), tackles (4.7), marks (4.6) and inside 50s (3.9) per game.

Hawthorn National Recruiting & List Manager Mark McKenzie said:

“We are delighted to welcome Zach, his wife Alexandra, and their son Jude to Hawthorn.

“A seven-time best and fairest winner and three-time All Australian, Zach has long been celebrated as one of the most elite midfielders in the AFL, and he will play a key role in our side for many years to come.

“We are very excited about what Zach brings to our club. His professionalism and competitiveness are second to none - he’s the sort of player that drives high standards and helps make others around him better."