The build-up to the AFL 2025 Grand Final kicks off on Monday with the AFL's night of nights - the Brownlow Medal count.
The AFL's top players will head to Crown Melbourne to hear the vote-getters be named for every game this season, with the umpires giving out votes on a 3, 2, 1 system for each game.
Ahead of the night, Collingwood superstar Nick Daicos appears to be the early favourite, though Adelaide captain Jordan Dawson and Geelong recruit Bailey Smith will each make a strong case to snag the famous medal.
So, who's likely to poll best from your favourite club? We explore this question, using the results of Zero Hanger's 2025 AFL MVP as a guide.
Essendon
Zach Merrett
The disgruntled Bombers star may exit the club this off-season, but that doesn't hide just how important he has been to the Bombers' early-season success before an inexplicable injury toll corrupted their campaign.
Similar to Carlton's George Hewett, Merrett's best can be seen in games the Bombers win. In Essendon's six wins this year, Merrett recorded 34 disposals or more four times and had at least eight score involvements in those matches too.
One would be quietly confident that he'd poll at least 10 votes from those four games, with Sam Durham being the only other Bomber to post a competitive performance in those contests.
Empty stats aren't a thing with Zach Merrett, and perhaps that's why his potential impact is so desirable for a team like Hawthorn ahead of the 2025 trade period.
Who else?
Nic Martin
Jye Caldwell
Sam Durham
