As attention turns to the twists and tales that 2025 could offer, new and familiar names are set to emerge as the headline-makers who will shape the AFL in the new year.
The past 12 months saw the likes of Adam Simpson, Christian Petracca, Ken Hinkley, Laura Kane and Harley Reid prominently feature in the news, wanted or not.
Some big names can already be predicted to catch widespread attention in the coming year, while there may be a surprise or two who take the cake.
So, in no particular order, these are eight of AFL's biggest expected headline makers for the 2025 season...
5. Luke Davies-Uniacke
North Melbourne's ace midfielder is sure to fetch the attention of all in 2025 as he likely becomes the AFL's next million-dollar man by the end of the year.
Davies-Uniacke hits free agency and is said to be of interest to clubs with cash to splash, with the Roos certainly seen to be at the front of the fight to land the midfield bull's signature.
The 25-year-old could earn close to $1.5 million per year with his next contract, whether that be at Arden Street or elsewhere. He'll have a massive decision to make on his future that could significantly help or hinder North Melbourne's plans to return to premiership contention.
Fremantle's Andrew Brayshaw, Western Bulldogs captain Marcus Bontempelli and Carlton big man Tom De Koning also headline the year's crop of free agents.
