Following the conclusion of the 2015 season which was marred by the mid-season passing of previous head coach Phil Walsh due to an alleged murder, former assistant coach Don Pyke was named as the club's new head coach for the 2016 season on 9 October 2015.Scott Camporeale had acted as interim head coach between Walsh's death and Pyke's appointment, but after electing not to apply for the full-time coaching role, reverted to his previous role of midfield coach for the new season.

Statistics are correct as of end of 2015 season. Flags represent the state of origin. The numbers in ( ) refer to the amount of goals or games this player has achieved for Adelaide.

Long-term injury list

Upgraded rookie(s)

The following summarises all player changes between the conclusion of the 2015 season and the beginning of the 2016 season.

The following summarises all coaching changes between the conclusion of the 2015 season and the beginning of the 2016 season.

Players written in bold received Brownlow Medal votes for their game.

Legend: Sea=Season Goals, Car=Career Goals

¹They had previously played for another club but played their first match for Adelaide.

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