Devils to miss out on two major recruitment targets

Tasmania is expected to miss out on two of their biggest recruitment targets.

After signing delisted Cat and J.J. Liston Medallist George Stevens on a deal that will likely see him suit up as an inaugural in 2028, the Devils are now at long odds to secure their primary off-field target.

With Ken Hinkley in place to lead the side from 2027 onwards, Tasmania set their sights on a new head of football, with Geelong’s Andrew Mackie atop the list.

However, as Sam Edmund reports, Mackie’s chances of leaving his role at the Cats has become highly unlikely.

Despite exploring the opportunity, Mackie, who underwent a successful trade period with Geelong, is expected to recommit in the near future.

“I think they are going to miss on him, the Devils,” Edmund told SEN Breakfast.

“I think they are going to miss on the next major target. My information is that Andrew Mackie is poised to stay at Geelong.

“He has given, as we know, serious thought to following Nigel Lappin down there. Mackie has looked at the city, the schools, etc.

“While there has been nothing official from him communicated, I don’t believe he’s going there.

“The Devils’ search for a head of football is set to continue – that’s probably their next big order of business, to get a head of football, which is not an easy appointment to make.

“They’ve gone hard for Andrew Mackie, one of the best in the business, but I think they are about to miss.”

Beyond Mackie, the Devils are also expected to miss out on one of their earliest reported on-field targets.

Superstar Giant Tom Green was reported to be a huge target for Tasmania, out of contract at the end of 2027 with connections to the club’s big spend social media manager Jacob Gaynor.

However, as Edmund reported, the midfielder is now a near-certainty to remain at GWS.

“He will re-sign, I’m told, before the start of the season,” Edmund continued.

“Take it to the bank. He will sign before Round 1. Before the Giants even take the field.”

The Devils yesterday axed inaugural captain Robbie Fox over an incident that the club claims breached behavioural standards.

They will continue to build their inaugural list ahead of their entry to the AFL in 2028.