Fremantle list analysis: Which Dockers are staying and going ahead of 2026?
Freo legends Nat Fyfe and Michael Walters have both walked into the retirement sunset — but they won’t be alone in leaving the club. We analyse who is staying and going.
After watching several established players walk out the door in seasons gone past, Fremantle has emerged as a pillar of stability in recent years.
Fringe players Will Brodie and Liam Reidy have requested trades to Port Adelaide and Carlton respectively.
But the Dockers remain one of the most committed clubs in the competition with several stars signed up for the long haul in pursuit of a maiden premiership.
The 2025 season also officially brings the end of an era at Fremantle with club legends Nat Fyfe and Michael Walters both retiring. The pair were the only two remaining players from the club’s 2013 grand final side.
So where to now for the Dockers after a devastating one-point loss to Gold Coast in the first week of finals?
1. SAM STURT
Age: 24, Games: 31 (0 in 2025), Contract ends: 2026
The forward recently underwent a knee reconstruction after an arthroscopic procedure on his left knee revealed that his ACL was no longer stable. It rules him out for a large chunk of next year, which could cast some doubt on his future, but he has a contract.
Status: Likely staying
2. JAEGER O’MEARA
Age: 31, Games: 200 (14 in 2025), Contract ends: 2026
The midfielder is set to be the oldest player on Fremantle’s list next year following the retirements of Michael Walters and Nat Fyfe. His experience will be crucial and he overcame a mid-season injury absence to produce a strong season.
Status: Staying
3. CALEB SERONG
Age: 24, Games: 127 (24 in 2025), Contract ends: 2027
Looks set to take out his third straight Doig Medal after picking up his third straight All-Australian blazer earlier this month. He is Fremantle’s No. 1 man in the midfield and fought through plenty of opposition attention as a result. Future captain.
Status: Staying
4. SEAN DARCY
Age: 26, Games: 127 (17 in 2025), Contract ends: 2030
He was the most under-pressure player on Fremantle’s list at the start of the year after several injury-ravaged seasons but he responded by getting himself in career-best shape only to be struck down by ankle surgery. Bounced back to play a key role in the ruck alongside Luke Jackson as the Dockers persisted with its two-is-better-than-one approach, but clubs have continued to ask the question.
Status: Likely staying
5. HEATH CHAPMAN
Age: 23, Games: 65 (23 in 2025), Contract ends: 2027
The young defender had an early selection scare when he was named as the sub in round one against Geelong, but he missed only one game after that due to illness. Had to sometimes take on responsibility as a distributor down back.
Status: Staying
6. JORDAN CLARK
Age: 24, Games: 126 (24 in 2025), Contract ends: 2028
A brilliant season from the half-back culminating in his first All-Australian blazer. Is Fremantle’s main man coming out of defence with his run and rebound, but he needs help down there.
Status: Staying
7. NAT FYFE
Age: 33, Games: 248 (8 in 2025), Contract ends: 2025
Arguably the greatest Docker of all-time bids farewell after a stunning career, headlined by two Brownlow medals. It was a rollercoaster season for Fyfe and he almost pulled the pin after injuring his calf warming up as sub against St Kilda. But he overcame knee, hamstring and calf concerns to have one last swing at a premiership. Farewell champion.
Status: Going
8. ANDREW BRAYSHAW
Age: 25, Games: 170 (24 in 2025), Contract ends: 2031
The midfield maestro signed a contract extension at the start of the year and rewarded Fremantle with a strong season, getting back to his best after a knee concern hampered him in 2024. Was named in the extended All-Australian squad and spent the year as co-vice-captain alongside Serong.
Status: Staying
9. LUKE JACKSON
Age: 23, Games: 119 (21 in 2025), Contract ends: 2029
A bombshell report during pre-season suggested that Jackson was exploring a potential trade back to Melbourne and the speculation has followed him all season. But the ‘unicorn’ is adamant he’ll remain a Docker next year and indicated in his exit meeting he wants to train as a ruck/midfielder over summer.
Status: Staying
10. MICHAEL WALTERS
Age: 34, Games: 239 (0 in 2025), Contract ends: 2025
The much-loved veteran called time in July due to a deteriorating knee. Fittingly, Walters’ last game was captaining the Indigenous All-Stars in February at Optus Stadium. Walters and Fyfe were the last two remaining players from Fremantle’s 2013 grand final side, bringing a close to a memorable era at the Dockers.
Status: Going
11. JAMES AISH
Age: 29, Games: 186 (3 in 2025), Contract ends: 2025
The former Lion and Magpie has been a solid contributor in his time at the Dockers, but he couldn’t get a look in this year, playing just three games. Aish racked up plenty of footy in the WAFL but the Dockers are keen on Judd McVee so he’s retired on his own terms.
Status: Going
12. HUGH DAVIES
Age: 20, Games: 2 (0 in 2025), Contract ends: 2026
The young key defender spent the whole season developing in the WAFL, even when Alex Pearce was injured, and will want more senior exposure next season.
Status: Staying
13. LUKE RYAN
Age: 29, Games: 179 (24 in 2025), Contract ends: 2027
Continues to be a reliable defender capable of playing whatever role the team requires of him. He is as honest as they come and will become Fremantle’s second-most experienced player next year following the retirement of Fyfe and Walters.
Status: Staying
14. JEREMY SHARP
Age: 23, Games: 60 (14 in 2025), Contract ends: 2027
Didn’t do his contract status any favours after failing to hold onto his spot in the senior side due to poor form. But the wingman has signed a two-year extension and he’s driven to fight for his spot next season.
Status: Staying
15. SHAI BOLTON
Age: 26, Games: 158 (23 in 2025), Contract ends: 2029
The highly-touted recruit has added a new dimension to Fremantle’s forward line in 2025. His skills and flair were effective both up forward and in midfield bursts. Needs to become Fremantle’s most reliable big game player.
Status: Staying
16. MURPHY REID
Age: 18, Games: 24 (24 in 2025), Contract ends: 2029
How did this guy slip to pick 17 in the draft? After training in the midfield all pre-season, injuries up forward meant Reid was redeployed late in the summer and he hasn’t looked back. The odds on favourite to win this year’s Rising Star award and he recently signed a two-year contract extension.
Status: Staying
17. WILL BRODIE
Age: 26, Games: 54 (0 in 2025), Contract ends: 2026
Who knows what Brodie did to convince Justin Longmuir that he can’t play AFL football anymore, but the out-of-favour midfielder looks set to reunite with former assistant coach Josh Carr at Port Adelaide after requesting a trade. Just hasn’t been able to get a look in.
Status: Going
18. LIAM REIDY
Age: 24, Games: 3 (1 in 2025), Contract ends: 2025
Reidy has been stuck behind Luke Jackson and Sean Darcy ever since he was drafted by the Dockers, but now he’s set to replace Tom De Koning at Carlton. Could he be Lloyd Meek 2.0?
Status: Going
19. QUINTON NARKLE
Age: 27, Games: 59 (2 in 2025), Contract ends: 2025
The SSP signing called it quits ahead of Fremantle’s finals campaign to move to Darwin with his family. Fremantle probably would’ve offered him another contract, but if you’re not getting picked after 42 disposals in the WAFL, you know you’re a depth player.
Status: Going
20. PATRICK VOSS
Age: 21, Games: 27 (20 in 2025), Contract ends: 2026
Voss was the feel-good story of Fremantle’s season. The former Bomber kicked 37 goals in 20 games and became a cult hero in the process. There’s plenty more prancing pony where that came from.
Status: Staying
21. OSCAR McDONALD
Age: 29, Games: 94 (7 in 2025), Contract ends: 2026
The journeyman has signed a one-year extension after proving his value as a depth option this season. Covered for Alex Pearce down back and was also retooled as a forward/ruck at one stage.
Status: Staying
22. CHARLIE NICHOLLS
Age: 18, Games: 0 (0 in 2025), Contract ends: 2026
His start to the season was delayed due to a stress fracture in his back, but Nicholls returned to play 15 WAFL games at Peel Thunder, kicking 14 goals.
Status: Staying
23. KARL WORNER
Age: 22, Games: 31 (23 in 2025), Contract ends: 2027
The defender was a regular in Longmuir’s backline this season, moving past Brandon Walker as Fremantle’s lockdown specialist. Will continue to build.
Status: Staying
24. JYE AMISS
Age: 21, Games: 71 (24 in 2025), Contract ends: 2029
There’s been suggestions that the Dockers should trade the young key forward after a down year. He fell behind Voss and Treacy, but he also looked underdone and was potentially carrying something. Needs to bounce back.
Status: Staying
25. ALEX PEARCE
Age: 29, Games: 138 (16 in 2025), Contract ends: 2027
Pearce’s 2025 season will be remembered for his Longmuir-esque mark and goal late in the game against Port Adelaide and his final quarter heroics against the Suns. Battled a shin injury but remains one of the best key backs in the AFL.
Status: Staying
26. HAYDEN YOUNG
Age: 24, Games: 89 (9 in 2025), Contract ends: 2033
It would’ve been fascinating to know how Fremantle’s season would’ve turned out if they had a fully fit Hayden Young available. The midfielder battled hamstring and groin injuries but still proved he’s the Dockers’ most important player with several best-on-ground displays.
Status: Staying
27. ODIN JONES
Age: 19, Games: 0 (0 in 2025), Contract ends: 2025
Jones spent two seasons on Fremantle’s list after being selected in the 2023 Rookie Draft. He missed the entire season after undergoing surgery to repair a fractured vertebra last November and has since been delisted.
Status: Going
28. NEIL ERASMUS
Age: 21, Games: 39 (16 in 2025), Contract ends: 2028
It was a season to remember for the emerging midfielder who finally cemented his spot in Fremantle’s senior side. As a result, he had plenty of interest from opposition sides, but the top 10 pick has since recommitted to the Dockers for a further three years.
Status: Staying
29. COOPER SIMPSON
Age: 20, Games: 5 (3 in 2025), Contract ends: 2027
Initially drafted as a forward, Simpson was transformed into an attacking defender this season before an unfortunate AC joint injury ruled him out for a chunk of the year. Should be given another go next season because he has plenty of potential.
Status: Staying
30. NATHAN O’DRISCOLL
Age: 22, Games: 38 (14 in 2025), Contract ends: 2026
The wingman enjoyed a strong start to the season before being struck down by a syndesmosis injury in the Dockers’ round four win over Western Bulldogs. He wasn’t the same after that, but he did earn a recall in Fremantle’s elimination final.
Status: Staying
31. BRANDON WALKER
Age: 22, Games: 66 (2 in 2025), Contract ends: 2027
A dislocated shoulder in round two against Sydney ruled Walker out for a big chunk of the season and he couldn’t break back into the side once he returned. Still offers value as a lockdown defender.
Status: Staying
32. MICHAEL FREDERICK
Age: 24, Games: 102 (24 in 2025), Contract ends: 2029
Frederick had an elimination final to forget, spraying a regulation goal across the face in the first half. He has the potential to be an A-Grader, but his inconsistency is an issue. Was already contracted for next year but Fremantle have shown faith, extending him for a further three seasons.
Status: Staying
33. OLLIE MURPHY
Age: 19, Games: 0 (0 in 2025), Contract ends: 2026
An emerging key defender who’s stuck behind a few at Fremantle. Played 17 games for Peel Thunder this season, three of them in the reserves.
Status: Staying
34. COREY WAGNER
Age: 28, Games: 57 (17 in 2025), Contract ends: 2026
The loveable journeyman reinvented himself as a defensive midfielder this season before a pec setback ended his year. He is always picked when fit and can also play a role at half-back.
Status: Staying
35. JOSH TREACY
Age: 22, Games: 80 (24 in 2025), Contract ends: 2030
Another strong season from the key forward, ending the year as Fremantle’s leading goal kicker. But he had plenty of support with Voss, Amiss and Frederick also kicking 30+. His leadership continues to grow.
Status: Staying
36. BRENNAN COX
Age: 26, Games: 135 (24 in 2025), Contract ends: 2030
Cox bounced back from an injury-interrupted 2024 campaign to re-emerge as a crucial pillar in defence. His intercepting ability returned and he’s in for the long haul.
Status: Staying
37. JOSH DRAPER
Age: 21, Games: 31 (11 in 2025), Contract ends: 2027
After a breakout season last year, Draper dropped back to the pack in 2025. He is best suited to a key defensive post but was tried on smaller opponents earlier in the year. Didn’t feature after round 15.
Status: Staying
38. JAREN CARR
Age: 21, Games: 0 (0 in 2025), Contract ends: 2026
A father-son prospect, Carr spent the year developing in the WAFL, splitting his time between Peel’s league and reserves side. A long-term prospect on the wing.
Status: Staying
39. SAM SWITKOWSKI
Age: 28, Games: 105 (17 in 2025), Contract ends: 2026
His absence in Fremantle’s elimination final loss to Gold Coast proved costly as the Dockers desperately missed his pressure inside 50. Fremantle found more avenues to goal this year, but he needs more help with the defensive stuff.
Status: Staying
40. JACK DELEAN
Age: 20, Games: 0 (0 in 2025), Contract ends: 2025
Selected with pick No. 60 in the 2023 AFL National Draft, Delean spent two seasons working on his small forward craft with Peel Thunder, playing 28 league games and kicking 33 goals. Delisted without playing a game.
Status: Going
41. BAILEY BANFIELD
Age: 27, Games: 118 (21 in 2025), Contract ends: 2026
Banfield has been on the fringe of Fremantle’s best 23 for several years now. But a move to the backline reinvigorated his career. Keeps improving.
Status: Staying
42. AIDEN RIDDLE
Age: 19, Games: 0 (0 in 2025), Contract ends: 2026
Added to Fremantle’s list in the rookie draft, the developing ruck/forward Riddle has been honing his craft in the WAFL. Signed a one-year extension in June.
Status: Staying
43. ISAIAH DUDLEY
Age: 21, Games: 16 (16 in 2025), Contract ends: 2026
Invited as a train-on from SANFL Club Central District over summer, Dudley hasn’t looked back since signing as an SSP. Brings x-factor and flair to Fremantle’s forward line and signed a one-year deal in June.
Status: Staying
44. MATT JOHNSON
Age: 22, Games: 55 (18 in 2025), Contract ends: 2026
The young midfielder cemented his spot in Fremantle’s midfield early in the season, but an untimely ankle injury spoiled his run into finals. Has the potential to be the big-bodied midfielder the Dockers are craving.
Status: Staying
Originally published as Fremantle list analysis: Which Dockers are staying and going ahead of 2026?
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