2024 is almost over, with the year - from an AFL lens - packed with drama, excitement and controversy.
Reflecting on the year that was, we've listed our biggest moments and stories from the past 12 months that combined to make 2024 a memorable one for the AFL.
From in-game drama to off-field headlines, these are the nine biggest AFL stories of the year...
3. Petracca saga adds to Melbourne's off-field issues
The Demons' 2024 season was one from hell as a fall from grace was marred by multiple off-field issues.
After a second consecutive straight-sets exit, which also resulted in the loss of Angus Brayshaw to retirement, Melbourne was immediately on the back foot.
Joel Smith's probable long-term ban for testing positive for an illicit substance hung over the club like a dark cloud, while Clayton Oliver's admission to hospital amid a tumultuous time for the star midfielder rolled the cloud into a storm.
Smith's ongoing investigation resulted in a four-year suspension from the AFL and Sport Integrity Australia as Oliver attempted to return to his best but ultimately failed to reach the heights he'd met before.
But the worst of it came from the annual King's Birthday clash against Collingwood, when a Darcy Moore knee came into contact with Christian Petracca's ribs, causing far-reaching complications.
Bravely, Petracca re-entered the field following the contest but was rushed from the ground and put in the back of an ambulance.
From then on, the 28-year-old faced life-altering injuries, revealing the horrific time he and his family endured through the recovery process.
But from Melbourne's perspective, once Petracca's health had improved, the reality of the situation hit them.
The star midfielder floated the idea of playing for another club, flagging his intention to move as the relationship between him and the Demons was allegedly "beyond repair".
Bounded by a long-term contract, Melbourne was always going to stand firm, denying any possibility of seeing Petracca in a rival jumper.
Around the same time, Oliver was also considered as a trade option, with Geelong players meeting with the onballer.
Ultimately, the length of the contract and subsequent dollar figure attached to it made it difficult for any club to enter a meaningful conversation.
Due to the upheaval at the club, more change was destined for Melbourne.
President Kate Roffey and CEO Gary Pert departed the Demons as an external review from All Blacks leadership guru Darren Shand attempted to realign the club ahead of the 2025 season.
