Sydney season 2025 preview: Lachlan McKirdy breaks down where the Swans sit

It’s a new era in Sydney, with Dean Cox now leading the charge for that elusive premiership. But all eyes will be on the future of a budding superstar. Lachlan McKirdy previews their season.

Where do the Swans sit?

A new era is set to begin at the Swans, with Dean Cox taking the reins from John Longmire after a hugely successful decade-plus of footy.

But can Cox repeat the dose of 2024? Minus the devestating grand final loss.

Joel Amartey needs to continue to improve. Picture: Sarah Reed/AFL Photos via Getty Images

SURPRISE PACKET OF 2024

Even though he didn’t convert his opportunities in the grand final against the Lions, Joel Amartey’s season exceeded all expectations for him last year. He finished with a team-high 43 goals and played 25 matches despite being cursed by injuries throughout his career. But there is still so much more to come from him. He needs to become a consistent marking option and find ways to impact games even when he’s quiet. However, it’s important to consider the past 12 months as a great foundation for the rest of his career.

INS AND OUTS

IN: Riak Andrew (No.55 draft pick), Riley Bice (No.41 draft pick), Ned Bowman (No.26 draft pick), Jesse Dattoli (No.22 draft pick), Blake Leidler (Rookie Draft), Ben Paton (Rookie Draft)

OUT: Harry Arnold (delisted), Jacob Konstanty (trade, North Melbourne), Jaiden Magor (delisted), Lachlan McAndrew (delisted), Luke Parker (trade, North Melbourne), Sam Reid (retired), Cooper Vickery (delisted)

WHO’S PLAYING FOR A CONTRACT?

Chad Warner is the obvious name on the list, but he’ll have a contract waiting for him, it’s just a matter of where he wants to sign. There are some really curious names on the list, among them Angus Sheldrick and Braeden Campbell. Two supremely talented players who should be AFL regulars but haven’t quite been able to cement their spot, or fight off injury. The pair will be looking for regular game time and Swans’ fans will be hoping that is in Sydney for the long term.

LAST YEAR IN CONTRACT

Aaron Francis, Angus Sheldrick, Ben Paton, Blake Leidler, Braeden Campbell, Caleb Mitchell, Chad Warner, Corey Warner, Dane Rampe, Indhi Kirk, Jack Buller, Jake Lloyd, Joel Hamling, Lewis Melican, Peter Ladhams, Robbie Fox, Sam Wicks, Tom Hanily, Will Edwards

POSITION THAT NEEDS TO BE FILLED AND WHO CAN FILL IT?

Luke Parker was the major departure this off-season and there are several candidates suited to his midfield-forward hybrid role. Taylor Adams is the main one who should be a beneficiary of a fresh start under new coach Dean Cox, while Braeden Campbell could be another one looking to impress after a few fleeting cameos late in the season. The ever-reliable Robbie Fox will also be hoping he’s more than just a bit-part player after being yet again one of the few who could hold their head high on grand final day.

Luke Parker left in the off-season. Picture: Phil Hillyard

BURNING QUESTION

On the field, it’s can the Swans finally break their grand final hoodoo. Arguably the depth of their squad has never looked better in the past decade with genuine back-up in nearly every position and exciting youngsters coming through. But until they can win at the MCG on the final Saturday of September, this squad is missing the premiership that will cap off their success.

It could also be a poisoned chalice in the race to keep Chad Warner. If the Swans win a premiership, is Warner then comfortable leaving back to Perth? If they miss out on a flag again, does his burning desire to win one in the red and white keep him in Sydney? Without a doubt the biggest off-contract player in the next 12 months, it will be fascinating to see how it plays out.

Originally published as Sydney season 2025 preview: Lachlan McKirdy breaks down where the Swans sit