Damian Barrett and Josh Gabelich bring you the latest footy news on AFL Daily.

All eyes at Essendon will be on Zach Merrett for the first day of pre-season after his trade request to Hawthorn was denied. 

Finishing 2025 the Bombers fell on a 13-game losing streak and injuries left, right and centre. They're all hopeful for a much more positive outlook in 2026. 

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