“It’s not really a focus for right this minute, but I think improving our list is what every club is doing. Everyone is trying to figure out how we can be better in 2026 than we were in 2025.”
To add a layer of intrigue, Merrett was standing on the MCG in his second season when Mitchell, who was then playing for Hawthorn, made a syringe gesture to Bombers players, referencing the infamous supplements saga that has plagued Essendon.
Mitchell said he later regretted the incident.
Merrett is contracted for two more seasons at Essendon.
The superstar midfielder, who turns 30 next month, is set to win his sixth Crichton Medal and is already one of the most decorated players in the history of the club.
Merrett has been contacted for comment.
Essendon’s board has indicated the club is not prepared to trade him.
Zach Merrett has met with Sam Mitchell.Credit: AFL Photos
This is not the first time Merrett has met with a rival club during a period in which he was reconsidering his future at Essendon.
In previous years, Merrett has sought catch-ups with Carlton captain (and friend) Patrick Cripps, and then-Collingwood coach Nathan Buckley.
This time last season, the Bombers captain fielded interest from St Kilda, who indicated they could make him a life-changing offer.
Merrett told this masthead at the time that the interest was serious enough that he felt compelled to discuss it with his partner, Alexandra, before dismissing the prospect of a trade.
More to come.
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