How the failed Zach Merrett trade and Will Day's injury affect Hawthorn Hawks' 2026 midfield

The Hawthorn Hawks missed out on star player Zach Merrett and have Will Day recovering from injury, changing their midfield plans for 2026.
By Newsroom | AFL, Sports |

The Hawthorn Hawks face the 2026 season with a midfield group facing significant shifts. The team's efforts to bolster its midfield by acquiring Zach Merrett from Essendon failed during the trade period. Simultaneously, a key young player, Will Day, is recovering from a serious injury. These developments place added importance on the team's existing young talent and their capacity to perform at a high level.

AFL 2026: Jarman Impey on Zach Merrett trade period, Will Day injury, Hawthorn Hawks, midfield options, latest news - 1

The Hawthorn Hawks' midfield strategy for 2026 is impacted by the unsuccessful pursuit of Zach Merrett and the injury to Will Day.

AFL 2026: Jarman Impey on Zach Merrett trade period, Will Day injury, Hawthorn Hawks, midfield options, latest news - 2

Context: Trade Period and Player Movements

The AFL trade period in October 2025 was marked by significant player movements and a major development concerning the Hawthorn Hawks.

AFL 2026: Jarman Impey on Zach Merrett trade period, Will Day injury, Hawthorn Hawks, midfield options, latest news - 3

  • Zach Merrett Trade Failure: Essendon star Zach Merrett was widely expected to move to Hawthorn. However, this highly anticipated trade stunningly fell through on the final day of the trade period. This outcome was described as a "bombshell" and a "spectacular collapse."

  • Hypothetical Trade Packages: Prior to the trade period, discussions and analysis explored multiple hypothetical trade packages that Hawthorn could have offered Essendon for Merrett. These often centered around the #8 draft pick and future first-round selections.

  • Merrett's Contracted Status: Merrett was a contracted player with Essendon, meaning any trade required agreement from both clubs. Reports suggested that if a trade didn't materialize, Merrett might have considered forcing a move.

  • Player Departures: The departure of James Worpel to Geelong further impacts Hawthorn's midfield depth.

  • Will Day's Injury: Will Day, a 24-year-old player, is on a modified program after suffering bone stress injuries in his foot. He played only six games in the preceding season. Despite this, he is expected to return to full training before the Christmas break.

Key Players and Midfield Dynamics

The Hawthorn Hawks' midfield composition for 2026 is shaped by these events.

AFL 2026: Jarman Impey on Zach Merrett trade period, Will Day injury, Hawthorn Hawks, midfield options, latest news - 4

  • Will Day's Importance: With James Worpel gone and the Zach Merrett acquisition failing, Will Day is seen as a crucial addition to the young Hawks midfield upon his return from injury.

  • Young Midfield Talent: Jarman Impey has expressed confidence in the club's developing young talent to lift the team and contend for premierships in the upcoming season. He noted an improvement in the team's facilities and investment in their fitness department.

  • Merrett's Post-Trade Resolution: Following the failed trade, Zach Merrett reportedly had a dinner with teammates Mason Redman and Nic Martin to clear the air. Both teammates had publicly expressed disappointment with his trade request. Merrett stated that the teammates were keen to keep him and wanted to play with him at Essendon.

  • Managerial Change: In January 2026, Zach Merrett reportedly terminated his arrangement with his manager, with sources indicating he was returning to a former manager. This followed the failed trade to Hawthorn.

Analyzing the Failed Merrett Trade

The failure of the Zach Merrett trade had ripple effects and raised questions about the trade period itself.

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  • Trade Period Drama: The Merrett deal was a central point of drama on the final day of the AFL trade period, occurring alongside other significant moves, such as Charlie Curnow and Christian Petracca finding new clubs.

  • Draft Pick Valuation: The Merrett saga, alongside other trades, prompted discussion about the valuation of first-round draft picks in AFL trades, contrasting with systems like the NBA where draft order is fixed.

  • Club Investment: Impey's comments suggest a belief that the club has invested heavily in its fitness department, aiming to keep players healthier and available for longer periods.

Impact of Injuries and Departures

The health and availability of key players are paramount for team performance.

  • Day's Recovery: Will Day's progress from his foot injury is a significant factor for Hawthorn's midfield strength in 2026. His modified pre-season program indicates a careful approach to his return.

  • Worpel's Absence: The departure of James Worpel creates a gap that the remaining young midfielders will need to fill.

Expert and Player Perspectives

  • Jarman Impey's Confidence: Impey's statements reflect an optimistic outlook on the Hawks' current midfield group and their ability to compete, despite external circumstances. He believes the club's investment in facilities and fitness resources will benefit the players.

  • Zach Merrett's Resolution: Merrett's actions, including the dinner with teammates and managerial change, suggest an effort to reintegrate and focus on his commitment to Essendon following the trade disappointment. He indicated that his teammates' desire to keep him played a role in their discussions.

Conclusion: Navigating a Transformed Midfield

The Hawthorn Hawks enter the 2026 season with a midfield unit that has been reshaped by circumstances beyond their direct control. The failure to acquire Zach Merrett, a player whose potential move generated considerable discussion, alongside the injury layoff for Will Day, places an increased burden on the existing young talent.

  • Key Implications: The team's success will likely hinge on the rapid development and consistent performance of its emerging midfielders. Will Day's successful return to full fitness will be critical to bolstering the on-field presence and depth.

  • Strategic Adjustments: Hawthorn will need to effectively strategize and develop their current playing list to compensate for the lack of a high-profile midfield recruit and the temporary absence of a key player.

  • Player Morale: The resolution of the Merrett trade saga, with the player recommitting to Essendon, suggests a need for internal cohesion and focus within the Hawthorn playing group.

The 2026 season will serve as a test of the Hawthorn Hawks' player development strategy and their resilience in overcoming significant midfield disruptions.

Sources Used:

Note: Article 5 (Benfica vs. Real Madrid) and Article 8 (Merrett deal collapse summary extraction failed) were not used as they were either irrelevant or could not be summarized.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did the Hawthorn Hawks not get Zach Merrett for the 2026 season?
The highly expected trade for Zach Merrett from Essendon failed on the last day of the trade period in October 2025. This means Merrett will stay with Essendon for the 2026 season.
Q: How does Will Day's injury affect the Hawthorn Hawks' midfield in 2026?
Will Day, a young player, is recovering from a foot injury and is on a modified training plan. His return is important for the Hawks' midfield depth, especially after James Worpel left the team.
Q: Who will play in the Hawthorn Hawks' midfield in 2026 now?
With the Merrett trade not happening and Will Day recovering, the team will rely more on its current young midfielders. Player Jarman Impey has said he is confident in their ability to step up.
Q: What happened after Zach Merrett's trade to Hawthorn failed?
After the trade did not happen, Zach Merrett had talks with his teammates at Essendon to clear the air. He later changed his manager, showing he is focused on playing for Essendon in 2026.