MELBOURNE stalwart Nathan Jones has stepped down from the co-captaincy after six years in charge.

He told teammates of the news on Monday afternoon, hours before the club's best and fairest.

Jones was appointed to the role in 2014 alongside Jack Grimes, then held it on his own the following two seasons before sharing it with Jack Viney in 2017-19.

Triple All Australian Max Gawn is tipped to be a prime contender for the role, whether it's alongside Viney or on his own.

After a torrid season that saw the club finish second-last when it was expected to contend for the flag, Jones told melbournefc.com.au the timing made sense.

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"I've had a lot of time to reflect since the season ended and always my number one priority has been my teammates and the club. This decision was no different," Jones said.

"After a couple of weeks away and just having time to reflect with my family, I came to the conclusion the right time is now for me to step aside in this capacity."

The triple best and fairest has lined up in 286 matches since he was drafted at pick No.12 in 2005.

While the 31-year-old's form dipped this season, with his 21 disposals per game his lowest average since 2010, the tough nut doesn't intend on letting that slide continue.

"I've got some exciting challenges ahead personally, to rediscover some of my best form and get some continuity with my training and body to allow me to do so," Jones said.

"My priority though is to continue to invest in the group and be a positive influence on my teammates as we build towards 2020.

"This year took its toll on me emotionally and physically. There is an element of relieving the pressure that will help, but I still have high expectations of myself.

"Really for me it's about just getting back to just loving the game and loving the journey I'm on (and) experiencing the joy in footy again with my mates.

"I look forward to taking a refreshing view of the game and leadership from a different perspective and hopefully I can impart the skills I've learnt over the last six to eight years on the emerging leaders that we have at the footy club."

The Dees hope to bounce back into finals next year, potentially with Fremantle wingman Ed Langdon among the additions. 

"I can assure you, everyone would have reflected very strongly over the past month," Jones said.

"Honestly, I think it creates a great opportunity for everyone involved. We aren't looking back, we're looking forward.

"Our biggest challenge is to learn from our mistakes and grow as a club and playing group.

"Our responsibility is to harness those learnings, own our mistakes, and grab hold of it. I'm confident this group will do that."

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