Sydney’s premiership-winning coach, John Longmire, has officially ruled himself out of contention for the recently vacated coaching position at Melbourne. The Demons made headlines after they sacked Simon Goodwin earlier this week, immediately identifying Longmire as a primary target.
Following the Swans’ heavy defeat in the 2024 grand final, Longmire stepped back from coaching responsibilities, passing the role to Dean Cox. Since then, he has been involved in a behind-the-scenes capacity with the Swans throughout the 2025 season.
On Saturday morning, Longmire clarified his intentions to multiple media outlets, stating he is not seeking to take on a coaching role in 2026. In an interview with the Herald Sun, he expressed satisfaction with his current situation, saying, “I’m enjoying a different rhythm,” and reflected on his enjoyment of this reflective period away from the pressures of coaching.
SEN host Gerard Whateley, who has had discussions with Longmire, remarked that the premiership coach feels it is too early for him to return to a head coaching role, especially after only eight months away from the field. Whateley noted that after a segment on AFL 360, Longmire took time to reflect on his career and wanted to make a clear decision regarding his future coaching prospects, rather than leaving anyone in suspense.
With Longmire’s decision made, the Demons are still left with several experienced candidates for the coaching position, including Adam Simpson, who led West Coast to a premiership, as well as seasoned coaches like Ken Hinkley, Nathan Buckley, and Leon Cameron. Meanwhile, Troy Chaplin, the current interim coach, has indicated that he does not intend to pursue the head coach role permanently as the season draws to a close.