North Melbourne has informed Will Phillips, Darcy Tucker and Geordie Payne they will not be offered contracts for the 2026 season
North Melbourne has informed Will Phillips, Darcy Tucker and Geordie Payne they will not be offered contracts for the 2026 season.
Phillips joined the club from the Oakleigh Chargers with pick No.3 in the 2020 National Draft. He made his senior debut in Round 3, 2021, and went on to play 50 games for the Kangaroos.
Tucker came to Arden Street in 2022 as an experienced player after playing 108 games for Fremantle. The reliable wingman played 48 games in his three seasons at North Melbourne, before his 2025 season was unfortunately cut short to just seven matches after he underwent season-ending back surgery.
Payne arrived at the club from Tasmania with the first overall pick in the 2024 AFL Mid-Season Rookie Draft. He worked hard to earn his AFL debut late in the 2025 season in Round 22, ultimately playing the final three games of the year and kicking three goals.
General manager of football Todd Viney thanked each player for their dedication and service to the club.
“These decisions are never easy, especially when they involve young men who have invested so much of themselves into the club,” Viney said.
“We wish Will, Darcy, and Geordie every success in their future.”
