THE MELBOURNE Football Club has today advised Jack Grimes, Matt Jones and Dean Terlich that they will not be offered playing contracts for the 2017 season.

General Manager of Football Josh Mahoney thanked each player for their commitment and dedication during their time at the Club.

“These decisions are obviously difficult given the competition for spots on our list. On behalf of everyone at the Club, we would like to thank Jack, Matt and Dean for their hard-work and commitment during their time with us,” he said.

“Jack Grimes is a man of great integrity and this was a tough decision for everyone involved. He had captained the Club and is universally respected for his professional approach to football. This was on full display this year in his time with the Casey Scorpions, where he drove standards at VFL level and helped the team reach a Grand Final. Jack played 100 games for the Club and will become a life member and we wish him well for the next phase of his AFL journey.

“Matt and Dean arrived at the Club together as mature aged recruits and made an immediate impact, both finishing in the top 5 of the 2013 Best and Fairest Award. They will leave the Club knowing they made a significant contribution during their time here.”

Jack Grimes was drafted with pick 14 in the 2007 National Draft and played 100 games after making his debut in Round 22 of 2008. He co-captained the Club from 2012 to 2013 and finished second in the Club Best and Fairest in 2012.

Matt Jones was selected with pick 53 in the 2012 National Draft and played 61 games for the Club after making his debut in Round 1, 2013.

Dean Terlich was selected with pick 68 in 2012 National Draft and made 35 appearances for the Club after debuting Round 1, 2013.