MRO's New Rule Tested by Dangerous Tackle

The AFL's Match Review Officer (MRO) process faces its first significant test with a recent dangerous tackle from North Melbourne defender Charlie Comben on Melbourne's Brody Mihocek. This incident, occurring just 10 minutes into a match simulation, has placed Mihocek into concussion protocols. The situation is pivotal as it will gauge the effectiveness of a new grading amendment set to be implemented for the upcoming 2026 season. This adjustment aims to provide the MRO with greater flexibility, moving away from the previous 'three weeks or nothing' policy for concussion-related incidents. It allows for lesser sanctions if factors beyond the concussion itself suggest a less severe impact.

Separately, the 2026 AFL draft landscape is already generating intrigue with the potential pathway of Cooper Hodge, son of four-time premiership Hawk Luke Hodge. Cooper is eligible to be drafted by Hawthorn under the father-son rule and also has ties to Brisbane through their Academy program. This dual eligibility presents him with a complex decision, with both clubs needing to decide whether to nominate him. The potential scenario of him joining the Lions' academy over Hawthorn's father-son selection is expected to fuel further debate regarding access to top talent within the AFL's draft system. Cooper's current focus remains on performing well in the coming months to secure his draft-worthiness.