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Redman floated as trade option BEFORE criticising Merrett
Sam Edmund • September 16th, 2025 1:35 pm
Essendon's Mason Redman was raised as a trade option at a rival club before he criticised Zach Merrett over his meeting with Hawthorn.
Redman was discussed by his management with at least one club as part of a sounding out process to gauge their interest in a deal.
It is unclear whether Redman was aware of the approach, but the approach was made recently.
It adds another layer of intrigue around Merrett’s wish to join Hawthorn in the wake of Essendon’s media offensive last week.
Coach Brad Scott, chief executive Craig Vozzo and president Dave Barham stated Merrett would not be traded.
But the most sensitive public comments came from Merrett’s teammates Nic Martin and Redman.
Redman told AFL.com.au: "It's (a feeling of) disappointment that our captain, who is supposed to be leading us through this, is exploring other options."
Redman, like Merrett, is contracted. The defender has longer to run on his deal, which goes through until the end of 2028.
Contacted by SEN, Redman’s manager Ben Williams said the defender was committed to Essendon.
Elsewhere, unrestricted free agent Sam Draper is set to join Brisbane, while injury-plagued Jordan Ridley has told the club he had weighed up exploring a fresh start.
Jayden Laverde is also poised to join GWS as a free agent.
