Tomlinson looks for permanent AFL role

Adam Tomlinson hopes a move to Melbourne and a more defined role on the wing will bring out his AFL best.

The 26-year-old has joined the Demons as a free agent less than a fortnight after playing in the GWS side that suffered a grand final humiliation against Richmond.

The Giants have used Tomlinson in several positions and he is keen to cement himself in one role at Melbourne.

"I've played every position under the sun, and it's been something that's been really good for me, but it might have left me out of the side at times," Tomlinson said.

"We've spoken about playing a consistent role, being able to have a purpose over pre-season and once we start game, being cemented in that spot.

"I think I have a lot more to give."

Tomlinson only missed one game this season, when he was dropped for the elimination final win over the Western Bulldogs.

The 140-game player said he knew then that a move might happen.

"It's all part of the reason - in the back of my mind, it probably sat there, it just reinforced that what I was doing was the right decision," he said of being dropped.

"But I still always had confidence that I'd get back in the side."

Tomlinson added that he had mixed emotions about leaving the Giants and returning to his home state.

"It's been an emotional month, in terms of the way it panned out - the loss in the grand final, into the best and fairest and moving on," he said

"But it's super-exciting. I get to start a new chapter, get to be back in Melbourne with family and friends.

"Obviously a lot was going on behind closed doors, but I had a lot of intentions to stay at the footy club.

"At the same time, I knew I had to do the right thing for myself.

"A fresh start is what's needed after the form I was in, I went up and down the last nine weeks."