Departed Melbourne ruckman Will Verrall has made the switch back to South Australia following his Demons delisting, signing with SANFL side South Adelaide for 2026.
Verrall was recruited to the Demons in 2022 as a Rookie Draft selection out of the Panthers and Christies Beach.
The 199cm talent didn't feature at AFL level across his trio of seasons in the red and blue, having sat behind captain Max Gawn among Melbourne's ruck ranks.
Verrall played 45 games for Casey in the VFL during his time on the Demons' list, including 19 appearances this year.
After not being offered a contract to extend his stay in Victoria for next year, Verrall has opted to return to his former SANFL side for 2026.
"I'm super excited. I think we got a great group of young talent, and I think we can be really competitive this year and play some finals footy," Verrall said in a club statement.
"I've worked a lot of my competitiveness and professionalism, and I think that's something that I can bring back to the Panthers."
"I've got a lot of connections that I've already previously had with boys and I'm super keen to meet all the new boys. I think there's a good culture building."
Verrall is the second ex-Panther to return to the club following a spell in the top flight, with axed Docker Jack Delean also signing on at South Adelaide for next season.
The SANFL club has also landed Riley Baldi (Casey) and Harley Sparks (West Coast WAFL) for 2026.
After winning four of their 18 matches this year, South Adelaide finished eighth on the SANFL ladder.
