From the returning stars to the emerging youngsters, here are five Hawks to watch in 2025.

The star - Jai Newcombe

Jai Newcombe took his game to new heights in 2024, winning his maiden Peter Crimmins Medal and finishing 10th in the Brownlow Medal. With averages of 24.8 disposals, 5.9 clearances and 4.4 tackles, Newcombe was a dominant force in the midfield. Will the former mid-season draftee continue his rapid rise in 2025? 

The draftee - Cody Anderson

Cody Anderson is a genuine excitement machine on the rise. Hailing from the Eastern Ranges, the teenager was a member of the Hawks Next Generation Academy and boasts impressive pressure, competitiveness and strength. Could we see Anderson line up alongside the likes of Jai Newcombe and James Worpel at a centre bounce this year? Or even push into the forward line with dangerous goalkickers like Dylan Moore and Connor Macdonald? 

The recruit - Tom Barrass 

A rock-solid defender, Tom Barrass is set to add class and experience to a backline that already possesses plenty of strength. Importantly, Barrass has premiership experience which will be crucial for a young Hawks side looking to improve on their 2024 finals berth. Can he guide the Hawks up the ladder next year? 

The youngster - Massimo D’Ambrosio 

Massimo D’Ambrosio had a career-best year in his first season in brown and gold. After being rated among the best wingers in the competition, the young gun made his first All Australian squad after averaging 21.1 disposals and five marks per game. Can he take his game to the next level in 2025?

The breakout contender - Josh Weddle

We all knew Josh Weddle was a running machine but in 2024, he was able to showcase his versatility with stints in defence, on the wing, up forward and even in the ruck. Where could he play in 2025? And can he continue his rapid improvement as the year goes on?