Following an impressive run of form at VFL level, Fitzgerald arrived at Melbourne with selection No. 16 in the 2026 mid-season rookie draft. After spending time in Essendon’s VFL program before moving to Williamstown ahead of the 2024 season, Fitzgerald has emerged as one of the competition’s leading ball-winners in 2026 following a move from defence. He averaged 34 disposals per game with the Seagulls to earn his breakthrough chance including a standout 40-disposal, two-goal performance.
