Hawthorn adds Ben King and Zach Merrett for next season
Ben King, a free agent, joins Jack Gunston, Mitch Lewis and Mabior Chol as Hawthorn's forward options.
The Hawks signed Gold Coast forward Ben King as a free agent last week. King has finished in the top five of the Coleman Medal in each of the past three seasons.
He has been held goalless on just three occasions across his past 72 matches. Jack Gunston, 34, kicked 66 goals in 2026.
Mitch Lewis re-committed to Hawthorn with a four-year extension in July, keeping him until the end of 2030. Coach Sam Mitchell now has to decide how to fit all this talent into one forward line.
Hawthorn also added former Essendon captain Zach Merrett for next season. The club tried to trade for Merrett last year but could not strike a deal.
- 34 years old
- Jack Gunston age
- 66
- Gunston goals in 2026
Why it mattersFans will watch whether this many forwards can play together, and whether Hawthorn has a clear plan for 2027.
AustraliaAFL fans will see the club's new signings in the 2027 season, including King and Merrett.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 1 h ago
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