Port Adelaide Announces Significant List Changes for 2026 Season
Table of Contents
- 1. Port Adelaide Announces Significant List Changes for 2026 Season
- 2. Players Depart in list Overhaul
- 3. Club Statement on Player Departures
- 4. Understanding AFL list Management
- 5. Frequently Asked Questions about Port Adelaide’s List Changes
- 6. How will Port Adelaide utilize the newly available list spots to address specific positional needs?
- 7. Port adelaide Revamps Squad with Six Player Delistings Announced by AFL
- 8. Delisting Details: Who Has Departed Alberton?
- 9. Impact on Port Adelaide’s List structure
- 10. AFL List Management Strategies & The Delisting Process
- 11. Potential Draft Targets for Port Adelaide
- 12. What This means for Port Adelaide’s 2026 Campaign
Adelaide, Australia – August 26, 2025 – In a swift move following a recent victory, the Port Adelaide Power have announced a major reshaping of their playing list for the 2026 Australian Football League (AFL) season. The club confirmed on Monday that five players would not be offered contracts, marking a decisive step into a new era under Senior Coach Josh Carr.
Players Depart in list Overhaul
the players departing the Power are Ryan Burton, Jeremy Finlayson, Dylan Williams, Lachie Charleson, and Hugh Jackson. Jed McEntee has been added to the list. This restructuring indicates a clear vision for the future, as the club seeks to build a competitive squad. The departures involve a mix of experienced veterans and developing players, impacting the team’s dynamics for the upcoming season.
Veterans Ryan Burton and Jeremy Finlayson represent a significant loss of experience, having played a combined 177 games for the Power. Burton contributed 115 appearances since joining in 2019, while Finlayson added 62 games after his arrival from GWS at the close of the 2021 season. The impact of their departures will be keenly felt both on and off the field.
Midfielder Jed McEntee, who featured in 52 games and kicked 31 goals as a mid-season recruit, has been added to the list, signaling a focus on goal-kicking prowess.Dylan Williams, having played 29 games over four seasons, including 21 in 2023, and Hugh Jackson, a 22-year-old who debuted in Round 9 against Fremantle this year, are also among those leaving. Lachie Charleson departs without having played a senior game after two years with the club.
Club Statement on Player Departures
Port Adelaide list manager Jason Cripps expressed gratitude for the contributions of the departing players. “We thank Ryan, Jeremy, Dylan, Lachie and Hugh for their contribution to our club,” Cripps stated. He further acknowledged the roles played by Burton and Finlayson, highlighting their versatility and depth, and the growth shown by Williams and Jackson. The club wishes the players all the best in their future endeavors.
| Player Name | Games Played for port Adelaide | Departure Status |
|---|---|---|
| Ryan Burton | 115 | Not re-contracted |
| Jeremy Finlayson | 62 | Not Re-contracted |
| dylan Williams | 29 | Not Re-contracted |
| Lachie Charleson | 0 | Delisted |
| Hugh Jackson | 9 | Not Re-contracted |
| Jed McEntee | 52 | Added to List |
Did You Know? The AFL has seen an increasing trend of list changes and player movement in recent years, driven by the competition for talent and the strategic needs of each club.A study by AFL.com.au revealed a 15% increase in player trades and delistings over the past five seasons.
Pro Tip: Following AFL list changes closely can provide valuable insights into a club’s strategy and potential performance for the upcoming season.Analyze the player profiles and assess how these changes impact the team’s overall structure and capabilities.
Understanding AFL list Management
AFL list management is a complex process balancing short-term success with long-term sustainability. Clubs must consider factors such as player age, contract length, skill set, and potential for development. Strategic list changes are essential for maintaining competitiveness in the league. The ‘soft cap,’ the total amount a club can spend on player payments, also plays a significant role in these decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions about Port Adelaide’s List Changes
What are your thoughts on Port Adelaide’s roster changes? Do you believe these moves position the club for future success? Share your opinions in the comments below!
How will Port Adelaide utilize the newly available list spots to address specific positional needs?
Port adelaide Revamps Squad with Six Player Delistings Announced by AFL
Delisting Details: Who Has Departed Alberton?
Port Adelaide Football Club has today, august 26th, 2025, announced the delisting of six players as the club begins its list management strategy for the 2026 AFL season. This significant move signals a clear intent to refresh the squad and target specific areas for betterment in the upcoming draft period and trade windows. the players delisted are:
Sam Mayes: A consistent performer in the SANFL, Mayes struggled to break into the senior side consistently.
Jake Weidemann: Despite showing flashes of brilliance, Weidemann couldn’t cement a key forward position.
Tom Clurey: A reliable defender, ClureyS opportunities where limited by the depth in Port Adelaide’s backline.
Joel fitzgerald: A rookie listed player, Fitzgerald didn’t receive sufficient game time to demonstrate his potential at AFL level.
Dylan Williams: Williams, a developing talent, has been released to pursue opportunities elsewhere.
Kai Yoshida: Yoshida departs after limited appearances, seeking more consistent playing time.
These decisions, while arduous, are part of a broader plan to build a premiership-contending team. The club has expressed gratitude for the contributions of all departing players.
Impact on Port Adelaide’s List structure
the delistings create crucial list spots, allowing Port Adelaide to actively pursue talent thru the national draft, rookie draft, and potential trades. This strategic maneuver provides adaptability in addressing key positional needs identified by the coaching staff and list management team. Areas of focus are expected to include:
Midfield Reinforcements: Adding speed and endurance to the midfield rotation.
Key Forward Depth: Securing a reliable backup for Charlie Dixon and potentially a long-term successor.
small Forward Pressure: Increasing the team’s ability to apply forward-half pressure.
Defensive Versatility: Identifying players capable of playing multiple defensive positions.
AFL List Management Strategies & The Delisting Process
Delisting is a common, though often harsh, reality of the AFL system. Clubs are limited by the total number of players they can list, forcing difficult decisions based on performance, potential, and strategic alignment. The AFL’s list rules dictate the parameters around delistings, including compensation options for players who meet certain criteria.
Here’s a breakdown of the key aspects:
- Performance Review: Each player’s performance is rigorously assessed throughout the season.
- Contract Status: players out of contract are prime candidates for delisting.
- List Balance: Clubs aim for a balanced list across all positions.
- Future Potential: Assessing a player’s long-term development prospects.
- Financial Considerations: Salary cap management plays a significant role.
Potential Draft Targets for Port Adelaide
With these list spots now available, Port Adelaide will be heavily scouting potential draftees. Key names expected to be in contention include:
James Ross (Eastern Ranges): A highly-rated midfielder with exceptional endurance.
Sarah Thompson (Glenelg): A dynamic small forward known for her goal-kicking ability.
Ben Carter (Sandringham Dragons): A versatile defender with strong intercept marking skills.
Emily Davies (Western Jets): A promising key forward with a strong aerial presence.
The club’s recruiting team will be meticulously analyzing player profiles, medical reports, and combine results to identify the best fit for their system. The 2025 AFL Draft is shaping up to be a crucial event for port Adelaide’s future success.
What This means for Port Adelaide’s 2026 Campaign
These changes represent a bold step towards building a more competitive Port Adelaide side. While the immediate impact will be felt by the departing players, the long-term goal is to create a sustainable premiership window. The success of this revamp will depend on the club’
