The Casey Demons have welcomed Melbourne’s three mid-season draft selections into their VFL side, with all set to feature just days after joining the club.

Defender Lukas Cooke headlines the inclusions, bringing strong intercept marking and composure from the SANFL. He is joined by ruckman Max Mapley, who arrives after spending the first half of the season with the Tasmanian Devils in the VFL.

Joel Fitzgerald also comes into the side following an impressive campaign with Williamstown. After making the move into the midfield this season, Fitzgerald has thrived around the contest and been one of the standout performers at VFL level.

The trio adds plenty of excitement to the Casey lineup, with Melbourne supporters getting their first opportunity to see the club’s newest recruits in action at Casey Fields.

Casey also regains Max Heath after his stint at AFL level, where he spent time working alongside captain Max Gawn. Heath made a strong start to the VFL season before earning his opportunity in the senior side, and his return provides an important boost to Casey’s ruck stocks.

Casey-listed player Lachlan Bryce has also been named, set to play his first game for the Demons this season.

It shapes as an exciting challenge for Casey as they prepare to take on a GWS outfit that has been one of the competition’s strongest teams throughout the 2026 VFL season.

INS: L. Cooke, M. Heath, J. Fitzgerald, M. Mapley, L. Bryce

OUTS: T. McDonald (AFL carry-over), O. Berry (injured), J. Henderson (AFL carry-over), A.Moniz-Wakefield (AFL), T. Ah-Mu (omitted)