Jaidyn Stephenson, a familiar face to AFL fans from his stints with both Collingwood and North Melbourne, has officially inked a deal with VFL club Coburg Lions for the upcoming 2026 season. This move signals Stephenson’s determined pursuit of a return to the pinnacle of Australian Rules football.
Stephenson recently made a concerted effort to rejoin the AFL ranks, participating in pre-season training with Port Adelaide as part of the Supplementary Selection Period (SSP). Despite his best efforts, he was unable to secure a contract with the Power. The 2018 AFL Rising Star award winner was recently seen featuring for the Coburg Lions in a VFL practice match against Sandringham, a clear indication of his ambition to once again compete at the elite level.
Over a seven-year career in the AFL, Stephenson amassed 122 games for the Magpies and the Kangaroos, contributing 130 goals to his teams’ tallies. His decision to play for Coburg in the VFL is a strategic step, allowing him to remain in the competitive environment and put himself back on the radar of AFL clubs.
Other Talent Finding New Homes in the VFL
Stephenson is not the only player seeking opportunities in the VFL after their AFL aspirations were put on hold. Ethan Stanley, who had been a hopeful for Hawthorn’s SSP list, has now signed with the Casey Demons. Stanley’s time with the AFL club concluded without a senior contract.
Prior to his time pushing for an AFL spot, Stanley had a two-season tenure with Fremantle from 2023 to 2024. He also spent time with Box Hill last year, further honing his skills and demonstrating his commitment to the sport. His move to Casey Demons represents a new chapter in his VFL career.
Joining Stanley at the Demons in their development squad is Marcus Krasnadamskis. Krasnadamskis will also be returning to the Eastern Ranges as an over-ager, a move that highlights his continued development and commitment to the game. His previous experience includes a stint with Richmond. The 22-year-old was among those vying for a position on Hawthorn’s senior list, competing alongside Jack Riding and Flynn Perez. While Perez successfully secured a contract, Riding has returned to his original VFL club, Werribee.
Zac Foot Returns to the State League
Another player making a move back to the state-league competition is Zac Foot. Adelaide recently informed Foot that he would not be receiving a contract, prompting his return to the VFL. Foot has been a standout performer for the Southport Sharks in the VFL, consistently impressing with his performances. This success with the Sharks previously provided him with the opportunity to showcase his talents to the Adelaide Crows.
Foot has now committed to the Southport Sharks for the 2026 season. His AFL career began with the Sydney Swans, where he played two games in 2019 and 2020. His return to Southport signifies a desire to rebuild his career at a high level within the VFL system. The VFL continues to be a crucial pathway for players looking to make their mark and potentially earn another chance in the AFL.
