MELBOURNE’S Tom McDonald is locked in for 2025, putting pen to paper on a new deal with the Demons.

The 31-year-old secured another season in the red and blue this week, following a year where McDonald wound the clock back and made a return to the backline for the first time since 2017.

The premiership forward switched to defence during the pre-season after an interrupted couple of years with injury, before the temporary training move soon became permanent.

It saw McDonald play 22 matches, missing only Melbourne’s Opening Round clash with Sydney, and average 14 disposals, six marks and six spoils a game.

His efforts mean he will prepare for a 15th season at the top level, with the club excited to be keeping him in the red and blue.

“We’re thrilled to offer Tom another contract, and extend his time as a Demon,” Melbourne AFL List Manager Tim Lamb said.

“We saw Tom thrive in his role down back this season, which is reflective of his elite preparation and hunger to contribute, no matter where he is on the field. It was fantastic to see him get some consistency in his game.

“Tom has given a lot to our club since walking through the doors nearly 15 years ago, and we look forward to what next seasons holds for him.”

McDonald, who even found a way to add three majors to his 169-goal tally this year, has notched up 232 games as a Dee to date, having made his debut in 2011.

Originally from Edenhope in Victoria, he was drafted by Melbourne with pick No.53 in the 2010 National Draft, and joins Jake Melksham in recently signing on for 2025