Controversial former North Melbourne star Tarryn Thomas will be eligible to play AFL in 2026.
The AFL sent a memo its clubs informing them that Thomas could be selected as a free agent or in the upcoming draft to play next season.
"Please note that after completing an extensive behavioural change program, former North Melbourne player Tarryn Thomas is now eligible to play football at all levels of Australian football, including in the AFL competition (if chosen). Mr Thomas is a free agent for the purposes of the AFL rules and eligible for the AFL draft," the memo read.
"Mr Thomas was sanctioned by the AFL in February 2024 in connection with a finding that he had breached AFL Rule 2.3(a) (conduct unbecoming etc.). Subsequently, in early 2025 the AFL permitted Mr Thomas to return to the VFL and other second tier football competitions but only with a non-aligned AFL club (noting he was also permitted to play at levels below that without restriction).
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"Mr Thomas is now permitted to play in the VFL and other second tier football competitions without restriction (ie he may now play with an AFL aligned club, if chosen).
"The AFL is satisfied that Mr Thomas has continued to comply with the conditions previously imposed on him, including completing his behavioural change program. He remains subject to a good behaviour undertaking imposed by the Magistrates' Court of Victoria until 21 November 2025."
Thomas missed the entirety of the 2024 season after initially being suspended for 18 matches by the league for inappropriate behaviour towards women.
The Kangaroos then promptly axed Thomas once the AFL's findings were handed down.
Thomas was unable to find a club at state league level in 2025, but is now eligible for top-level once again.