Melbourne will go into 2026 with a refreshed list and a new approach under the tutelage of newly appointed senior coach Steven King.
The loss of Oliver and Petracca, who have been linked to a move for several years, allows the club to go into 2026 with an eye on what's next, as King plans to prioritise the development of youth over stars of years past.
With all of that in mind, let's take a look at what Melbourne's best 23 might look like...
Midfielders
The midfield spots are completely up for grabs at Demonland with the departures of Oliver and Petracca providing clear openings in the engine room.
One man likely to take up a position there is Kysaiah Pickett, who relished with greater midfield influence in 2025, dominating as a stellar dual-role attacking threat.
Youngsters Caleb Windsor and Jai Culley will make a bid to start in the centre square, particularly Culley who impressed in the latter half of 2025 and has captivated onlookers during pre-season with his work ethic.
However, King also has proven AFL talents at his disposal, able to inject former Saints captain Jack Steele into an on-ball role if he pleases.
Unsurprisingly, Max Gawn will once again take the rucking duties and likely dominate, while Jack Viney and Ed Langdon should also be expected to play each week as Melbourne's gun ball-winners.
Harry Sharp may press for a spot in the best 23 too after proving to possess a strong work rate in the front half during 2025, ultimately playing 18 games for the year, though many of those appearances came as substitute.
