Port Adelaide's Pre-Season Developments
Player Commitment: Zak Butters
Zak Butters, a Port Adelaide player, is reported to be fully committed to the club despite his eligibility for free agency in 2026. Teammate Mitch Georgiades stated that Butters is "110 per cent" invested in the team's pre-season and focused on club success.
Butters is "110 per cent" invested in the team's pre-season and focused on club success, according to Mitch Georgiades.
Butters' future has been a subject of ongoing discussion, with potential interest from Victorian clubs often mentioned.
Coaching Staff Revamp
Josh Carr has officially taken the helm as Port Adelaide's new coach, succeeding Ken Hinkley. This leadership transition is part of a broader expansion within the club's football department.
The team has also bolstered its coaching staff by adding former Suns coach Stuart Dew and ex-Bombers boss Ben Rutten.
These significant changes have been described as fostering a "fresh and exciting" pre-season environment, bringing new ideas and contributing to a revised game plan.
Game Plan Evolution & Season Objectives
The team's game plan has undergone adjustments, with Mitch Georgiades noting distinct differences in coaching approaches between Josh Carr and his predecessor, Ken Hinkley. The revised strategy is designed to foster a more free-moving offense while simultaneously placing a strong emphasis on defense.
Port Adelaide chairman David Koch has made it clear that the club is not embarking on a "rebuild."
Finals remain a firm objective for Josh Carr's inaugural season as coach, according to chairman David Koch.
Georgiades echoed this confident sentiment, attributing some past performance issues to injuries sustained in 2025. He expressed strong confidence in the team's talent and its capability to challenge for success this season.
Individual Player Highlights
Several players have reportedly made a strong impression during the pre-season. This includes new recruits Will Brodie, Corey Durdin, and Jacob Wehr, alongside second-year forward Joe Berry.
Mitch Georgiades, fresh off a career-best 58-goal season and a State of Origin appearance, is focused on further developing his all-around game and leadership skills.
His role in the forward line has become increasingly critical following Todd Marshall's move to defense and the retirement of key players Charlie Dixon and Willie Rioli. Georgiades emphasized the versatility of the current forward line group, which also features talents like Jack Lukosius, Jack Whitclock, and Ollie Lord.