Melbourne has reportedly dropped key defender and premiership player Jake Lever for the club's Saturday game against the Gold Coast at People First Stadium.
Lever has been a pivotal cog in the Demons' defence for the better part of a decade, but injuries in 2025 have limited his output, playing a measly six games.
However, it is understood that the former Crow will not be lining up for the senior side when it takes on the Suns.
It's understood Melbourne has made a major selection call for Saturday's clash with Gold Coast, axing experienced defender Jake Lever.
โ Daniel Garb (@DanielGarb) June 26, 2025
The shock selection call comes as coach Simon Goodwin weighs up how to tackle Gold Coast's three-pronged attack, which consists of Ben King, Jed Walter and Ethan Read.
Goodwin could utilise Dan Turner, Steven May and Tom McDonald to combat the opposition forward line, with the latter likely to regain his spot in the senior side.
Caleb Windsor has been dropped as well. Pick 7, 2023. Big calls at Melbourne this week. @FootyonNine https://t.co/MeYoWw0rQW
โ Tom Morris (@tommorris32) June 26, 2025
Turner's emergence as an intercept defender has buoyed Melbourne fans with his development.
Blake Howes is also a defensive option.
Goodwin has also reportedly elected to axe speedster Caleb Windsor.
Final teams will be released at 6:20 pm (AEST).
