Despite a formidable home record, Gold Coast's struggles outside Queensland ultimately voided a maiden finals berth for the expansion club.
With just an 11-12 record for the season the Suns settled for a measly 13th-placed finish, despite expectations that new coach Damien Hardwick could add to his esteemed resume with a finals appearance after his first season at the helm.
Yet their underwhelming 2024 didn't prevent players from requesting to join the club, with Daniel Rioli, John Noble and Elliott Himmelberg all joining the Suns via the trade and free agency period, adding depth across the half-back and forward line.
Himmelberg will be eyeing a spot as a key forward after the departure of 2018 Pick 2 Jack Lukosius, while Rioli and Noble come in for the traded Rory Atkins and retiring Brandon Ellis.
Top 10 pick Leo Lombard shapes as an early-season debutant following strong years in the Gold Coast Academy, as well as eye-catching performances with the Suns at VFL level.
Ahead of next season, we've assessed Gold Coast's 2025 squad and selected a best 23-man side, breaking down their depth charts on all three lines of the field.
Our Best 23 for 2025 series will include players unavailable for the start of the season, except for those expected to miss most or all of the season through injury or suspension.
Midfielders
One of the Suns' strongest areas in 2024 was their contested possessions, which is unsurprising given the talent that headlines the midfield. Matt Rowell is a contested-ball-winning and tackling machine, as is skipper Touk Miller. Noah Anderson is a ball magnet and was a top-three player for inside 50s per game in 2024.
Flanders could also be thrown into the mix as he excelled in the centre when given the opportunity, averaging a career-high 30.9 disposals last season.
Brayden Fiorini, Will Graham and Sam Clohesy are potential options on the wings, while draftee Lombard could also spend time on the wing and in the centre square.
Jarrod Witts seems likely to hold his spot as the number one ruck for another year, although Ned Moyle is patiently biding his time waiting for a chance to grab the role with both hands.
With high-end talent littered throughout the midfield, a spot at the opening bounce is a tough position to earn at Gold Coast.
