<h2>Former Rising Star Winner Jaidyn Stephenson seeks AFL Comeback&nbsp; - Three Point Summary:</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>- Former Rising Star winner Jaidyn Stephenson is actively approaching AFL clubs seeking a comeback opportunity for the 2026 season</p> <p>- The 26-year-old speedster retired from North Melbourne in 2024 despite having a year remaining on his contract</p> <p>- Stephenson has been starring in local football, booting 38 goals for Ferntree Gully in Division 3 this season</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Former Collingwood and North Melbourne forward Jaidyn Stephenson is pursuing an unlikely AFL return, directly contacting clubs about rejoining the competition in 2026.</p> <p>The 26-year-old's potential comeback story has captured attention across the football community, just 12 months after walking away from his North Melbourne contract. Stephenson's decision to retire early surprised many, particularly given his talent and relatively young age for an AFL player.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>From Retirement to Revival</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Stephenson's AFL journey began promisingly when Collingwood drafted him at the end of 2017. His debut season proved spectacular, with the speedy forward kicking 38 goals and claiming the prestigious Rising Star award in 2018. This breakout performance established him as one of the competition's most promising young talents.</p> <p>After departing Collingwood following the 2020 season, Stephenson joined North Melbourne, where he spent four seasons before his surprise retirement. Across his AFL career, he accumulated 122 games, demonstrating consistent ability at the elite level.</p> <p>The decision to retire came despite having another year remaining on his Arden Street contract, with Stephenson receiving a partial payout for his 2025 wage. This early departure left many wondering about his future football ambitions.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Local Football Success Sparks Comeback Dreams</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Since retiring from the AFL, Stephenson has been showcasing his talents with Ferntree Gully in the Eastern Football League Division 3. His dominant form in local competition has been remarkable, kicking 38 goals throughout the season and proving his goal-scoring instincts remain sharp.</p> <p>This impressive return to form appears to have reignited Stephenson's AFL ambitions. Multiple clubs contacted by media outlets confirmed the former speedster has been initiating contact himself, working independently of his management to gauge interest in a potential return.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Clubs Consider Post-Draft Opportunities</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>While initial interest from AFL clubs hasn't been overwhelming, several have indicated they would consider Stephenson for pre-season rookie training positions following the upcoming draft period. This pathway could provide the former North Melbourne forward with an opportunity to prove his fitness and commitment to returning to elite football.</p> <p>The timing of Stephenson's approach suggests strategic thinking, as clubs typically finalise their rookie selections after the main draft concludes. This period often presents opportunities for experienced players seeking second chances or comebacks.</p> <p>Stephenson's AFL experience, combined with his proven goal-scoring ability and recent form in local competition, could appeal to clubs seeking depth in their forward lines. His 122-game experience and Rising Star credentials demonstrate that he possesses the talent to compete at the AFL level.</p> <p>The prospect of Stephenson's return adds intrigue to the upcoming pre-season period, with football fans curious to see whether the former Collingwood and North Melbourne speedster can successfully navigate his way back to the AFL. His journey from retirement to potential comeback represents one of the more unusual player movements in recent memory.</p> <p>As the 2025 AFL season approaches, Stephenson's situation will be closely monitored by clubs and supporters alike, with his local football form providing compelling evidence of his continued ability to find the goals.</p> <p><br /> For all the latest AFL Trade, Free Agency and Contract news this off-season, keep clicking back to <a href="https://www.sportsbet.com.au/huddle/afl">The Huddle</a> to keep you across all the movement and where your club's picks for the <a href="https://www.sportsbet.com.au/huddle/afl/news/2025-afl-draft-order">2025 AFL Draft</a> fall.</p>