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Jon RalphSports Reporter

Jon Ralph has covered sport with the Herald Sun, and now CODE Sports as well, for over two decades working primarily as a football journalist… (other fields)

@RalphyHeraldSun

Jon Ralph

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AFL

Ross was right to send message — he just had the wrong target

While singling out Gold Coast might not have been the right play for Ross Lyon, he is on the money about the AFL’s compromised draft. Jon Ralph writes, other clubs can’t escape scrutiny.

AFL News

Saints’ AFL fear as war of words explodes over ‘nepo baby’ jab

The Saints are set to ramp up their fight against the academy selection process, as a war of words breaks out after Ross Lyon’s “nepo baby” whack at the Suns.

AFL

The 20 issues AFL must fix – or be overtaken for good

Severe backlash has hit AFL house in recent weeks, leaving Andrew Dillon shocked. The fans are on edge, clubs in revolt and the NRL is making its move. But it’s obvious what isn’t working.

AFL

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - AUGUST 25: Tom McCarthy of the Tigers handpasses the ball during the 2024 VFL Wildcard Round match between Williamstown and Richmond at DSV Stadium on August 25, 2024 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Rob Lawson/AFL Photos)

No. 1 locked in? Who your club could take in mid-season draft

On Wednesday, an ‘impossible’ football rise will be complete as West Coast hone in on a VFL star. But what is your club thinking? Get the latest whispers on how it could all play out.

AFL

ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA - MAY 25: Jake Soligo of the Crows tackles Liam Baker of the Eagles during the 2025 AFL Round 11 match between Kuwarna (Adelaide Crows) and Waalitj Marawar (West Coast Eagles) at Adelaide Oval on May 25, 2025 in Adelaide, Australia. (Photo by James Elsby/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

Eagle escapes ban for ‘deliberate’ misconduct on Crow

West Coast recruit Liam Baker has avoided a suspension for ramming James Peatling’s head into the turf with his forearm, while Callum Mills wasn’t so fortunate.

Essendon

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JULY 27: Nik Cox of the Bombers looks dejected after a loss during the 2024 AFL Round 20 match between the St Kilda Saints and the Essendon Bombers at Marvel Stadium on July 27, 2024 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

Top-10 pick’s career in jeopardy amid concussion issues

Following a recent recurrence of symptoms, the AFL’s concussion panel looms for Nik Cox as his career hangs in the balance at the age of just 23.

AFL

Injury wrap: Maynard timeline, Darcy latest, returning Tigers

Brayden Maynard is set for a stint on the sidelines, but the Tigers and Dogs have some welcome news on the injury front. Jon Ralph has the details.

AFL

HOBART, AUSTRALIA - MAY 11: Charlie Comben during the 2025 AFL Round 09 match between the North Melbourne Kangaroos and the Brisbane Lions at Ninja Stadium on May 11, 2025 in Hobart, Australia. (Photo by James Wiltshire/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

Journey of exploration: North star isn’t your average AFL player

He loves vinyl, books and bushwalks. Charlie Comben isn’t your average AFL player — and that’s the way the North Melbourne defender likes it. He reveals his top-three live gigs and more.

AFL

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 18: Steele Sidebottom of the Magpies celebrates a goal with Jeremy Howe and Jamie Elliott of the Magpies during the 2022 AFL Round 01 match between the St Kilda Saints and the Collingwood Magpies at Marvel Stadium on March 18, 2022 In Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Dylan Burns/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

Waiting game looms as Pies greats push for career extensions

The Pies’ collection of plus-30 premiership stars will have to bide their time if they want new deals for 2026. Plus, Jon Ralph has the latest on a key Crow’s future and Jeremy McGovern.

AFL

Staying or going? The status of every uncontracted Bomber

Essendon has 14 players who come off contract this year — including breakout defensive star Zach Reid and free agent Sam Draper. Who will re-sign and who’s likely to move on?

Original URL: https://www.heraldsun.com.au/journalists/jon-ralph/page/3