A series of high-profile AFL contract negotiations are poised to intensify in 2027 as several prominent players approach the end of their current deals, with some discussions set to occur as early as this summer and others extending into next year.

Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera of St Kilda is currently on a two-year contract signed with an understanding that the club had limited premiership prospects in the immediate future. Given that his next deal will coincide with the introduction of a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) for the 2028 season, Wanganeen-Milera is expected to hold substantial leverage. St Kilda faces challenges in retaining him amid interest from other clubs, including Port Adelaide, which may have additional salary cap space following the departure of Zak Butters, and Adelaide, though the latter’s recent significant commitment to Zac Bailey raises questions about their available cap room. Wanganeen-Milera’s salary is currently around $2 million annually, a figure analysts anticipate will rise under the new CBA.

At Collingwood, forward Jordan De Goey remains a key focus for retention efforts. De Goey, who becomes an unrestricted free agent at the end of 2024, is motivated to secure a contract extension and is said to wish to remain with the club. His age—turning 31 in March 2025—may influence negotiations, but a strong finish to the current season could bolster the club’s confidence to offer a new deal. Collingwood is simultaneously budgeting to recruit midfielder Lachie Neale, making De Goey’s continued presence a priority.

Sydney midfielder Chad Warner appears likely to stay with the Swans. While he maintains personal ties to Perth and has attracted interest from West Coast Eagles, Warner’s desire to win a premiership with Sydney, combined with a current salary of approximately $1.5 million per year, suggest he will remain. Sydney will need to manage salary cap pressures carefully, particularly regarding potential big deals for other free agents like Joel Amartey.

Hawthorn is reportedly keen to extend Will Day’s contract this off-season. However, Day’s limited exposure—playing only nine games over two years—and concerns about a recurring navicular injury pose challenges. Other clubs may present lucrative offers if Hawthorn’s proposal lacks length or financial competitiveness. Jack Ginnivan, also at Hawthorn, is said to be negotiating a new deal aimed at providing him greater financial security after a strong season, despite his pay remaining modest.

Tom Green’s future at GWS appears secure, as the club plans to offer a long-term, potentially seven- or eight-year contract to retain him amid interest from Tasmania. GWS aims to build around Green despite the possible loss of Toby Greene, buoyed by a talented emerging list.

Brisbane has been cautious with recent contract offers, notably holding back on Zac Bailey, suggesting funds are being reserved for young talent such as Logan Morris. Drafted midway and overlooked by several clubs, Morris is expected to receive a substantial four-year deal potentially worth up to $5 million, allowing scope for a lucrative free agency contract later.

Carlton faces a pivotal decision regarding captain Patrick Cripps. The club is expected to decide by the end of the home-and-away season whether to extend his contract or explore trade options. Cripps, who has expressed openness to various outcomes, will participate in discussions with the new coaching staff as the season concludes.

At Gold Coast, Matt Rowell's contract situation remains unresolved. Despite being viewed as a potential leader alongside Noah Anderson, Rowell has delayed contract negotiations in the past, raising uncertainty about an early renewal.

Finally, Mitch Georgiades of Port Adelaide has publicly committed to fulfilling his existing contract through the end of 2027, declining to negotiate a long-term extension despite the club’s willingness to offer a significant deal following Zak Butters’ departure. Georgiades has emphasized that his future decisions will be based solely on football considerations rather than lifestyle factors.

As the AFL’s contractual landscape heats up, clubs will navigate a complex interplay of player ambitions, salary cap constraints, and the forthcoming CBA’s implications, shaping roster strategies well into the next decade.