Shane Crawford could play again for the Hawks next year after getting positive news about his ongoing knee injury.
Crawford, 34, struggled to play regularly for the premiers this season thanks to his troubled knee, but a specialist has told him the knee could be in better shape in 2009.
Hawthorn has left the decision up to Crawford as to whether he wants to play a 17th AFL season, although the club will only offer a reduced contract.
If the Hawks retain Crawford it could affect the club’s ability to recruit Sydney star Ryan O’Keefe and still stay under the salary cap.