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...
6Jaxon Prior (Essendon)
Prior was given a second chance in the AFL after he departed Brisbane following 39 games across five seasons.
The rebounding left-footer made an impression during the SSP 12 months ago, winning a new deal at the Bombers for 2025, whilst also following in the footsteps of his father, Michael, who played 81 games in the red and black.
Prior repaid the belief instilled by the club, playing all 23 matches throughout the year, averaging 15.7 possessions and 4.9 marks.
He penned a new contract for next year.
