All the attention and focus has well and truly been placed on the 2026 as all 18 teams have officially returned for the pre-season.

Following the trade and draft periods, certain clubs still have the capacity to improve their lists through the SSP, holding vacancies over the summer months for prospects to prove themselves.

But it also lends a moment to reflection for those who ventured through the rookie mechanism 12 months ago.

Heading into the 2025 campaign, 14 players were scooped up across nine clubs.

Some were welcomed on a needs basis, while others helped fill a roster spot due to a long-term injury.

Here's how each SSP signing from the last pre-season performed in 2025...

11Jack Henderson (Melbourne)

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 16: Melbourne Demons debutants Jack Henderson, Harry Sharp, Matthew Jefferson, Aidan Johnson, Harvey Langford and Xavier Lindsay pose for a photo with former player David Schwarz before the 2025 AFL Round 01 match between the Melbourne Demons and the GWS Giants at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on March 16, 2025 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Dylan Burns/AFL Photos via Getty Images)
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 16: Melbourne Demons debutants Jack Henderson, Harry Sharp, Matthew Jefferson, Aidan Johnson, Harvey Langford and Xavier Lindsay pose for a photo with former player David Schwarz before the 2025 AFL Round 01 match between the Melbourne Demons and the GWS Giants at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on March 16, 2025 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Dylan Burns/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

The Werribee Tigers forward was being pursued by the Demons and West Coast, but ultimately chose to remain in Victoria after Melbourne offered a deal.

The knee injury to Shane McAdam opened up a vacancy on the club's list, with the high-flying forward being moved to the long-term injury roster.

Henderson debuted in Round 1 against GWS and played the opening five matches of 2025, averaging 10 disposals, 2 tackles and 2.2 marks.

He signed on for another 12 months and will look to impress new coach Steven King.

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