GWS Giants reject rebuild despite major player departures

Greater Western Sydney (GWS) Giants football manager Jason McCartney has rejected the idea of a team rebuild following a significant off-season roster overhaul. Despite losing key players, McCartney maintains that the club remains capable of contending for a premiership in 2027.

The Giants face major departures, including former captain Toby Greene, who is set to join Geelong on a three-year deal. Additionally, forwards Jesse Hogan and Jake Stringer were not offered new contracts, with Hogan expected to move to Collingwood. The club is also considering offers for Lachie Whitfield.

McCartney attributed the team's recent inconsistency to injuries rather than a lack of depth. He noted that several key players, including Tom Green, Josh Kelly, and Sam Taylor, missed significant time due to circumstances often beyond the club's control.

Meanwhile, Jake Stringer’s AFL future remains uncertain. Despite a strong 2026 season where he finished 11th in the Coleman Medal race with 48 goals, the 32-year-old forward has not yet secured a new club. Having moved back to Victoria for family reasons, Stringer may be forced to play local football if no AFL suitors emerge before the end of the trade period.