Recently departed Essendon ruckman Todd Goldstein has revealed he's yet to decide on whether he'll continue his football career into 2026.
Following conversations with the Bombers at the cessation of the recent season, Goldstein and Essendon agreed to part ways, with the club signalling that the league's all-time hitouts leader was "exploring other opportunities".
Goldstein played 16 games at AFL level this year, a total higher than expected heading into his second season with Essendon and 19th in the competition. Injury carnage at the Dons saw the 37-year-old thrust into the first-string ruck role, with Goldstein bringing his career games tally to 345 games.
The 201cm big man is yet to rule out the chance of reaching the 350-game milestone, with Goldstein still "working through the options" for 2026.
Wanting to "take in all the information" for deciding on his future, Goldstein opted against announcing his retirement amid what would have been an emotional call from the 2006 draftee.
"I'm still working through the options," Goldstein said of his future on SEN.
"I had the opportunity to retire at the end of the season. I had some great conversations with Brad, and he was really respectful around that.
"But for me, I've always liked to take in all the information before I make decisions. If I retired straight away, it would've been an emotional decision and I didn't want to look back and regret it.
"I wanted to take my time and spend time with family, discuss the options with them. That's what we're doing, exploring what options are out there."
If an AFL club were to table a contract to Goldstein, the North Melbourne icon would remain no certainty of signing on for next year.
While knowing he can play at the level, Goldstein is continuing to weigh up what the right call will be for 2026.
"That's what I'm still working out. To be honest, I don't know (if I still have the desire)," he admitted.
"If I knew 100 per cent, then it'd make it an easy decision for me. I know I've got the capability, the commitment and work ethic (to play on). It's just whether I'm ready for that next stage in my life.
"That's probably the big decision. Regardless of whether I get another offer or not, that doesn't mean I'd take that up anyway."
Goldstein's career commenced at Arden Street, with the All-Australian and best and fairest winner playing 315 games in the blue and white - the third most of any Kangaroos player ever.
Should a third club come calling for the veteran ruckman, the delisted free agency, draft window and Supplemental Selection Period are all mechanisms for him to join a list before the 2026 season commences.
