Former Collingwood and North Melbourne player Jaidyn Stephenson has signed with VFL outfit Coburg Lions for the 2026 season.

Stephenson attempted to make a dramatic comeback to the AFL via the SSP, training with Port Adelaide over the pre-season. He was unable to secure a contract.

The 2018 Rising Star featured for the Lions over the weekend in a VFL practice game against Sandringham, signalling his intent to reach the top flight once more.

MORE: Jaidyn Stephenson's plea to AFL clubs following SSP snub

Stephenson played 122 games for the Pies and Roos over seven years, kicking 130 goals.

Hawthorn SSP hopeful Ethan Stanley signed with the Casey Demons after his stint with the AFL club came to an end.

Stanley, who had previously been with Fremantle for two seasons (2023-2024), was at Box Hill last year, and was pushing his case for a second chance in the AFL.

Marcus Krasnadamskis will join Stanley at the Demons in the development squad after a stint at Richmond. He will also return to the Eastern Ranges as an over-ager.

The 22-year-old was vying for a position on the Hawks' senior list, alongside Jack Riding and Flynn Perez. The latter snared a contract.

Riding returned to his original VFL club, Werribee.

Zac Foot also returned to the state-league competition after he was informed by Adelaide that he won't be receiving a contract earlier this week.

Foot has dominated for the Southport Sharks in the VFL, and got the opportunity to impress the powers at West Lakes.

He has signed with the Sharks for 2026.

Foot is a former Swan, playing two games in 2019 and 2020.

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