Hawthorn head into 2025 aiming to prove their fairytale 2024 season wasn't a flash in the pan.

After falling one kick shy of a preliminary final, the Hawks have made off-season acquisitions that could be the additional boost required for a deeper September charge this year.

Hawthorn signed Saint Josh Battle through free agency as well as trading for Eagle Tom Barrass, two reputable defenders that create a selection squeeze for Sam Mitchell. It means the Hawks could experiment with a few players' flexibility in 2025 as they work out how to fit their most talented troops across all three lines of the field.

Mitchell Lewis will also be aiming to return mid-year, whilst Calsher Dear's timeline is currently unclear but he will too make his case to re-enter the side. Youngsters Josh Ward, Cameron Mackenzie, Sam Butler, and Seamus Mitchell will be pushing to squeeze inside the line-up as well.

It's a tricky selection call across all three lines of the field, so we've assessed Hawthorn's squad ahead of the 2025 season and determined what the best 23-man side will be for a healthy Hawks team.

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.

2. Midfielders

Will Day headlines the midfield for Hawthorn, with his influence a key factor in the Hawks' midseason turnaround.

James Worpel has continued his return to form after an underwhelming year in 2022, and pairs seamlessly with fellow contested bull Jai Newcombe, who is anticipated to challenge for a maiden All-Australian blazer in 2025.

Conor Nash has become an underrated weapon for the Hawks, with his newfound ability under Mitchell to accumulate disposals but also be an influential tagger when required.

Ward and Mackenzie are on the fringe, although they have the talent to hold a spot when an opening presents itself. Ward managed 12 games last year, while Mackenzie remained at the top flight for 20 matches. Finn Maginness is another fringe option for his tagging ability and football IQ.

The wing presents another intriguing conundrum for the Hawks. D'Ambrosio is the obvious selection, but Weddle, Amon, Impey and Harry Morrison all have the right skillset for the position. Changkuoth Jiath could play the wing too with his pace and ability to break lines.

In the ruck, Lloyd Meek seems to have cleared Ned Reeves as first choice after a breakout 2024, with Reeves unlikely to play in the same side unless Hawthorn's talls are depleted.