Hawthorn will have a new skipper in 2019 after Jarryd Roughead stepped down from the role.
The veteran key forward has captained the club for the past two seasons but says it's time for someone else to take the position.
"It’s been an honour and privilege to captain the club for the past two years, but I feel it’s in the best interests of myself and the club to hand over the reins," Roughead told hawthornfc.com.au.
"Being captain is a big responsibility and I think the best thing for the team right now is that I focus on my own game and getting the best out of myself on the field.
"Of course, I’ll still be around to support whoever fills the role next, but I think the club is ready for a new player to lead."
MORE: Gillon McLachlan confirms AFL will 'review' live trading rules after Swans' draft coup
Just who that will be remains to be seen, with midfielders Isaac Smith and Liam Shiels the most likely candidates.
Ben Stratton and Jack Gunston made up the five-man leadership group in 2018.
Hawks footy manager Graham Wright said the club would work out who is best placed to lead over the off-season.
“When Rough let us know of his intentions to step down from the role and focus on his footy, he had our complete support," Wright said.
“We know that he will continue to lead by example amongst the group and we are equally confident that a new leader will step up and fill the void left by his departure.
“With Rough stepping down, we will take the opportunity to evaluate our leadership model and decide upon the best process for appointing the new captain.
“We will spend the pre-season exploring this and at the conclusion of the process we will appoint the next captain of our club.”
The Hawks surprised many by finishing in the top four in 2018 before being bundled out of the finals in straight sets.
