As attention turns to the twists and tales that 2025 could offer, new and familiar names are set to emerge as the headline-makers who will shape the AFL in the new year.
The past 12 months saw the likes of Adam Simpson, Christian Petracca, Ken Hinkley, Laura Kane and Harley Reid prominently feature in the news, wanted or not.
Some big names can already be predicted to catch widespread attention in the coming year, while there may be a surprise or two who take the cake.
So, in no particular order, these are eight of AFL's biggest expected headline makers for the 2025 season...
1. Ken Hinkley
The Power boss, who is never far from making headlines, is one of three AFL coaches who are set to enter the 2025 campaign without a deal beyond the season's cessation.
Hinkley faced mass intrigue and swatted off speculation surrounding his future in 2023 before re-signing at Alberton on a two-year deal, which is now nearing its expiration with the Power no closer to a second AFL premiership under their long-serving coach.
With 274 games in charge of the Power, Hinkley is the most-capped coach in V/AFL history to go without a grand final appearance.
A decision could be made prior to the end of the coming season that sees Hinkley step aside and hand the reins over to well-rated assistant Josh Carr, but there's no discounting Port Adelaide's premiership chances again in 2025, with Hinkley at the helm of an exciting list.
