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...
13Harry Boyd (St Kilda)
The Saints saw Boyd as a quick fix for the ruck woes, which relied heavily on Rowan Marshall.
The Norwood product was one of the most dominant players in the SANFL over the past few seasons, helping the club to the 2022 premiership - including best-afield honours in the grand final win - while claiming the Magarey Medal in 2024.
Boyd debuted in Round 1 against Adelaide, making the trip to the familiar Adelaide Oval. He collected 12 disposals, 27 hit-outs, four clearances and two tackles.
However, St Kilda didn't see the ruckman as part of their future, and moved on. Boyd signed with Norwood for the next two years.
