Tom De Koning, Sam Draper and Christian Petracca. Pictures: AFL Photos\/St Kilda FC<\/p>\n
WITH the pre-season in full swing and the AAMI Community Series not too far away, our experts have put their selectors’ hats on to pick your club’s best team for 2026.<\/p>\n
Who’s in, who’s out, who’s unlucky, who’s sidelined with injury, and who is up for a red-hot debut?<\/p>\n
Did we get it right? Check it out.<\/p>\n
Editor’s note: This is the best possible 23 for each club this season, so players with short-term injuries have been included. Players with long-term unavailability have not been included.<\/p>\n
B:\u00a0Josh Worrell, Mark Keane, Max Michalanney\u00a0
HB:\u00a0Mitch Hinge, Nick Murray, Rory Laird\u00a0
C:\u00a0Isaac Cumming, Jordan Dawson, Dan Curtin\u00a0
HF:\u00a0Alex Neal-Bullen, Riley Thilthorpe, Callum Ah Chee
F:\u00a0Ben Keays, Darcy Fogarty, Josh Rachele\u00a0\u00a0
Foll:\u00a0Reilly O’Brien, Izak Rankine, Jake Soligo\u00a0\u00a0
I\/C:\u00a0Taylor Walker, James Peatling, Wayne Milera, Luke Pedlar, Luke Nankervis\u00a0<\/p>\n
Emerg:\u00a0Jordon Butts, Sam Berry, Hugh Bond,\u00a0Sid Draper\u00a0<\/p>\n
The Crows will have to wait to unleash Dan Curtin after he underwent surgery for a dislocated left kneecap, but the young star will still be crucial in 2026 as either a wingman or in a new onball role once he returns. Max Michalanney has been experimented with as a midfielder but should be part of a strong back six, with Jordon Butts unlucky to be squeezed out here and Brayden Cook and Hugh Bond set to challenge for spots. Luke Nankervis is expected to round out the backline after a strong summer. In the midfield, Jordan Dawson and Izak Rankine pick themselves as the star pairing alongside Jake Soligo, while Josh Rachele will push up often from the forward line. How coach Matthew Nicks manages his three tall forwards will be interesting, with versatile recruit Callum Ah Chee giving him options as a hard-running player who also has an aerial presence wherever he is stationed. Half-back Charlie Edwards, half-forward Zac Taylor and wingman Chayce Jones will challenge for spots, along with versatile forward recruit Finnbar Maley.\u00a0\u2013 Nathan Schmook<\/p>\n
Callum Ah Chee at Adelaide training on December 1, 2025. Picture: Adelaide FC<\/p>\n
B:\u00a0Ryan Lester, Jack Payne, Noah Answerth
HB:\u00a0Dayne Zorko, Harris Andrews, Jaspa Fletcher
C:\u00a0Jarrod Berry, Lachie Neale, Sam Marshall
HF:\u00a0Zac Bailey, Logan Morris, Cam Rayner
F: Charlie Cameron, Oscar Allen, Ty Gallop
Foll:\u00a0Sam Draper, Hugh McCluggage, Josh Dunkley
I\/C:\u00a0Darcy Wilmot, Keidean Coleman, Levi Ashcroft, Will Ashcroft, Kai Lohmann<\/p>\n
Emerg:\u00a0Darcy Gardiner, Bruce Reville, Dan Annable, Darcy Fort<\/p>\n
Following the off-season additions of Oscar Allen and Sam Draper, this will be a brutally difficult selection if everyone is fit. Eric Hipwood will miss a decent chunk of the first half of the season as he recovers from knee surgery, paving the way for Ty Gallop to have an extended run in the forward line. Jack Payne’s early-season return from a knee injury puts on a backline squeeze, with Ryan Lester ever-so-narrowly getting the nod over his good mate Darcy Gardiner in the 23. Noah Answerth (returning from a ruptured Achilles) slides straight into the vacancy left by the departed Brandon Starcevich, while we’ve found room for Keidean Coleman after a horrid run with injury over the past two years. His return to the backline might push Jaspa Fletcher or Darcy Wilmot to a wing for stretches, but either way, it’s a nice selection problem to have for Chris Fagan and his match committee. –\u00a0Michael Whiting<\/p>\n
Sam Draper poses for a photo during Brisbane’s official team photo day on January 22, 2026. Picture: AFL Photos<\/p>\n
B:\u00a0Lachie Cowan, Jacob Weitering, Harry Dean
HB:\u00a0Ollie Florent, Nick Haynes, Adam Saad
C:\u00a0Ollie Hollands, Adam Cerra, Jagga Smith
HF:\u00a0Ben Ainsworth, Harry McKay, Matt Cottrell
F:\u00a0Zac Williams, Will Hayward, Francis Evans
Foll: Marc Pittonet, Patrick Cripps, Sam Walsh
I\/C:\u00a0Lachie Fogarty, Nic Newman, George Hewett, Campbell Chesser, Cooper Lord<\/p>\n
Emerg: Mitch McGovern, Blake Acres, Liam Reidy, Ashton Moir<\/p>\n
It could be a new-look Carlton, with up to six or seven first-time Blues looking to cement their spots ahead of Opening Round. Father-son gun Harry Dean has impressed across pre-season and has looked to muscle his way into the side’s backline, especially with Harry O’Farrell (knee) likely to miss most of the year. Ollie Florent and Will Hayward are certainties if fit, having arrived from Sydney over the off-season. Charlie Curnow’s departure and Jesse Motlop’s ACL injury will mean spots are available in attack, but Ben Ainsworth has arrived from Gold Coast and a strong finish to 2025 will likely put Francis Evans alongside him at the front of the queue. Ashton Moir and Lachie Fogarty will vie for other roles, while Brodie Kemp (Achilles) could also feature early in the year. Jagga Smith should make his debut in the opening weeks after last season’s injury woes, while Campbell Chesser will also be in coach Michael Voss’ plans after his trade from West Coast. – Riley Beveridge<\/p>\n
Will Hayward and Ollie Florent at Carlton HQ. Picture: Bek Vilardo<\/p>\n
B:\u00a0Brayden Maynard, Billy Frampton, Isaac Quaynor
HB:\u00a0Scott Pendlebury, Darcy Moore, Harry Perryman
C:\u00a0Josh Daicos, Nick Daicos, Steele Sidebottom
HF:\u00a0Beau McCreery, Dan McStay, Pat Lipinski
F:\u00a0Jamie Elliott, Tim Membrey, Lachie Schultz
Foll:\u00a0Darcy Cameron, Jordan De Goey, Ned Long
I\/C:\u00a0Dan Houston, Jack Crisp, Jeremy Howe, Jack Buller, Wil Parker\u00a0<\/p>\n
Emerg:\u00a0Roan Steele, Ed Allan, Lachie Sullivan, Reef McInnes<\/p>\n
Brody Mihocek and Mason Cox are gone, creating a different look in attack. Can Dan McStay stay on the park in 2026? Jack Buller has moved from Sydney and is aiming to become a permanent AFL player. Veteran Scott Pendlebury looks set for more time at half-back, where Craig McRae has flexibility with Josh Daicos, Dan Houston, Isaac Quaynor, Brayden Maynard and Harry Perryman. Jordan De Goey has done a full pre-season to date. Bobby Hill has been absent for much of the summer and is hard to plan for in 2026 at this stage. Pat Lipinski has starred across the summer and could be set for more midfield time this winter. Joel Cochran has impressed across the summer, while Charlie West and Harry DeMattia will be part of the young crop fighting for games this year.\u00a0\u2013 Josh Gabelich<\/p>\n
Scott Pendlebury looks towards fans after the match between Collingwood and West Coast at Marvel Stadium in round 16, 2025. Picture: Getty Images<\/p>\n
B: Andrew McGrath, Zach Reid, Ben McKay\u00a0
HB: Mason Redman, Jordan Ridley, Archie Roberts
C: Xavier Duursma, Sam Durham, Brayden Fiorini
HF: Darcy Parish, Nate Caddy, Kyle Langford
F: Isaac Kako, Peter Wright, Archie Perkins
Foll: Nick Bryan, Zach Merrett, Jye Caldwell
I\/C: Jacob Farrow, Matt Guelfi, Elijah Tsatas, Jade Gresham, Dyson Sharp
\u00a0
Emerg: Angus Clarke, Archer May, Jaxon Prior, Harrison Jones
\u00a0
Essendon’s back half is probably its most settled area of the ground when its key players are fit and available, with Archie Roberts’ inclusion as a half-back or wingman part of the evolution there. Brayden Fiorini’s addition as a free agent will see him take on a wing position opposite Xavier Duursma, while Darcy Parish’s strong summer has him back in the midfield group alongside Sam Durham, Jye Caldwell and Zach Merrett. Nick Bryan won’t be ready for the start of the season as he recovers from his ACL surgery but is the first-choice ruckman, while Archie Perkins is also unlikely to be ready for round one after an off-season dealing with his groin injury. Dyson Sharp and Jacob Farrow look comfortable at training and could feature early, with top pick Sullivan Robey just getting into training after his back injury. Angus Clarke and Archer May will push for places in this team after promising debut campaigns in 2025, while don’t be surprised if Jayden Nguyen plays early as a small defensive stopper. Zak Johnson, Lewis Hayes, Nik Cox and Vigo Visentini are others who will be in the mix aiming to cement a best 23 position. – Callum Twomey<\/p>\n
Jacob Farrow, Sullivan Robey and Dyson Sharp after being drafted by Essendon at the 2025 Telstra AFL Draft. Picture: AFL Photos<\/p>\n
B:\u00a0Luke Ryan, Alex Pearce, Heath Chapman\u00a0
HB:\u00a0Jordan Clark, Brennan Cox, Judd McVee\u00a0
C:\u00a0Neil Erasmus, Hayden Young, Corey Wagner\u00a0
HF:\u00a0Murphy Reid, Luke Jackson, Sam Switkowski\u00a0
F:\u00a0Pat Voss, Josh Treacy, Shai Bolton\u00a0
Foll:\u00a0Sean Darcy, Caleb Serong, Andrew Brayshaw\u00a0
I\/C:\u00a0Jye Amiss, Michael Frederick, Karl Worner, Matthew Johnson, Jaeger O’Meara\u00a0<\/p>\n
Emerg:\u00a0Mason Cox, Cooper Simpson, Josh Draper, Nathan O’Driscoll\u00a0<\/p>\n
The arrival of Mason Cox has seen the Dockers experiment with their big men this pre-season, using Jye Amiss on a wing and Luke Jackson in an onball role at times. How they line up in round one remains to be seen, but the possibilities are exciting. There is competition for wing roles, with Neil Erasmus set to grab one after his excellent finish to 2025. Corey Wagner can play on every line but looked particularly comfortable on a wing last year, with Jeremy Sharp and Nathan O’Driscoll to compete hard there for spots. Judd McVee has the ability to enhance the Dockers’ ball movement and is a key inclusion at half-back in a very settled defence, with Karl Worner and Cooper Simpson jockeying for the seventh defender spot in this line-up. Josh Draper and Oscar McDonald are excellent depth in the key tall roles. Bench selections Matthew Johnson and Jaeger O’Meara can play inside or outside roles but could face competition from several half-forwards depending on the Dockers’ preferred structure.\u00a0\u2013 Nathan Schmook\u00a0<\/p>\n
Luke Jackson celebrates a goal during the R24 match between Fremantle and Western Bulldogs at Marvel Stadium on August 24, 2025. Picture: Getty Images\/AFL Photos<\/p>\n
FB: Jack Henry, Sam De Koning, Zach Guthrie
HB: Tom Stewart, Connor O’Sullivan, Lawson Humphries
C: Ollie Dempsey, Tanner Bruhn, Max Holmes
HF: Shaun Mannagh, Shannon Neale, Gryan Miers
FF: Patrick Dangerfield, Jeremy Cameron, Tyson Stengle
Foll: Mark Blicavs, Bailey Smith, Tom Atkins
I\/C: Mark O’Connor, James Worpel, Brad Close, Jack Bowes, Rhys Stanley<\/p>\n
Emerg: Jake Kolodjashnij, Jack Martin, Oisin Mullin, Jhye Clark<\/p>\n
There’s only a handful of changes from Geelong’s Grand Final side of last year. Ex-Hawk James Worpel\u00a0adds some power to the midfield, as does the return of Tanner Bruhn, while Tom Stewart returns after missing the decider with concussion. It squeezes out Jack Martin, Oisin Mullin and Jhye Clark, who all sit in the emergency queue. When fully fit, and with a decent stretch of VFL footy under his belt (given his a long layoff with back and foot issues over several years), Toby Conway\u00a0will come in contention for Rhys Stanley’s\u00a0ruck role, with Mitch Edwards\u00a0having also shown some nice signs over pre-season. \u2013 Sarah Black<\/p>\n
James Worpel is unveiled as a Geelong player in October, 2025. Picture: Geelong FC<\/p>\n
B:\u00a0Charlie Ballard, Sam Collins, Wil Powell
HB:\u00a0John Noble, Mac Andrew, Daniel Rioli
C: Zeke Uwland, Noah Anderson, Lachie Weller
HF:\u00a0Touk Miller, Ethan Read, Bailey Humphrey
F:\u00a0Ben Long, Ben King, Jamarra Ugle-Hagan
Foll:\u00a0Jarrod Witts, Matt Rowell, Christian Petracca
I\/C: Bodhi Uwland, Joel Jeffrey, Will Graham, Jake Rogers, Leo Lombard<\/p>\n
Emerg:\u00a0Dylan Patterson, Alex Davies, Jy Farrar, Jed Walter<\/p>\n
There’s quite a few new faces to consider from the team that reached a semi-final in 2025. Christian Petracca slots straight into a mid-forward role, while Jamarra Ugle-Hagan will likely battle Jed Walter to be the third tall forward alongside Ben King and Ethan Read (who will also be the back-up ruck). Charlie Ballard is back from a knee reconstruction to solidify the tall defensive stocks, while Joel Jeffrey deserves to stay in the 23 after a terrific 2025. Zeke Uwland looks ready-made for a wing role in his first season and even though we haven’t got him in the 23, fellow draftee Dylan Patterson shouldn’t be far away. There are some spots at half-forward up for grabs, with Jake Rogers and Leo Lombard the frontrunners, but they’d want to take their chances with both hands as there’s some experienced personnel waiting for any slip-ups. – Michael Whiting<\/p>\n
Christian Petracca poses for a photo during a Gold Coast media opportunity on October 17, 2025. Picture: AFL Photos\/Getty Images<\/p>\n
B: Connor Idun, Sam Taylor, Jack Buckley
HB:\u00a0Lachie Whitfield, Harry Himmelberg, Lachie Ash
C:\u00a0Stephen Coniglio, Clayton Oliver, Ryan Angwin
HF:\u00a0Toby Greene, Jesse Hogan, Toby Bedford
F:\u00a0Brent Daniels, Aaron Cadman, Jake Stringer
Foll: Kieren Briggs, Tom Green, Finn Callaghan
I\/C:\u00a0Leek Aleer, Harry Rowston, Jake Riccardi, Toby McMullin, Xavier O’Halloran<\/p>\n
Emerg: Harvey Thomas, Cody Angove, Nick Madden, Callum Brown<\/p>\n
Greater Western Sydney’s midfield will be strengthened by the addition of Clayton Oliver from Melbourne and the return to fitness of Stephen Coniglio across pre-season. That will help to cover for the loss of Josh Kelly (hip), leaving coach Adam Kingsley with few gaps to fill in a strong starting side. The Giants’ backline is rock-solid and the attack is growing in stature, despite the loss of Darcy Jones to a long-term knee injury. There’s a chance Leek Aleer could be pushed out of the side after a trade to St Kilda broke down over the off-season, with Joe Fonti pushing for his spot after an impressive summer. Cody Angove and Harry Oliver are the other surprise packet youngsters to watch leading into Opening Round, while Nick Madden is expected to seriously challenge Kieren Briggs for the leading ruck role throughout the season. – Riley Beveridge<\/p>\n
Clayton Oliver and Giants teammate Toby Bedford at Giants training in December 2025. Picture: Phil Hillyard<\/p>\n
B:\u00a0Blake Hardwick, Tom Barrass, Josh Battle
HB:\u00a0Karl Amon, James Sicily, Jarman Impey
C:\u00a0Massimo D’Ambrosio, Jai Newcombe, Josh Weddle
HF:\u00a0Dylan Moore, Mabior Chol, Jack Ginnivan
F:\u00a0Nick Watson, Mitch Lewis, Jack Gunston
Foll:\u00a0Lloyd Meek, Conor Nash, Connor Macdonald\u00a0
I\/C:\u00a0Jack Scrimshaw, Josh Ward, Cam Mackenzie, Ned Reeves, Harry Morrison\u00a0<\/p>\n
Emerg:\u00a0Calsher Dear, Sam Butler, Finn Maginness, Henry Hustwaite<\/p>\n
Sam Mitchell will have to cope without Will Day for the first half of 2026. Connor Macdonald looks set for more time inside this year after training with the midfielders all summer. Josh Weddle is also set for multiple roles again this year and has trained with the midfielders for a chunk of the summer. With Mitch Lewis and Calsher Dear fully fit, the forward squeeze is real from Opening Round onwards. Changes to the ruck rule and the removal of the sub could allow Hawthorn to play two rucks more often than other teams, with Ned Reeves ready to step in and play alongside Lloyd Meek. \u2013\u00a0Josh Gabelich<\/p>\n
Connor Macdonald celebrates a goal during Hawthorn’s preliminary final against Geelong on September 19, 2025. Picture: AFL Photos<\/p>\n
B:\u00a0Christian Salem, Harrison Petty, Daniel Turner
HB: Blake Howes, Jake Lever, Xavier Lindsay
C:\u00a0Ed Langdon, Jack Viney, Caleb Windsor
HF:\u00a0Kozzy Pickett, Brody Mihocek, Jake Melksham
F:\u00a0Kade Chandler, Jacob van Rooyen, Bayley Fritsch
Foll:\u00a0Max Gawn, Harvey Langford, Trent Rivers
I\/C:\u00a0Tom Sparrow, Jack Steele, Changkuoth Jiath, Jai Culley, Tom McDonald<\/p>\n
Emerg: Latrelle Pickett, Koltyn Tholstrup, Steven May, Xavier Taylor<\/p>\n
Some big-name departures over the off-season have made for a fresh start at the Demons, with the exits of midfield mainstays Christian Petracca and Clayton Oliver opening the door for a new era in the engine room. Defender Trent Rivers\u00a0and livewire forward Kozzy Pickett\u00a0are set for increased midfield minutes, while young gun Harvey Langford\u00a0and recruit Jack Steele\u00a0are also expected to feature heavily. Jai Culley\u00a0has been tearing up the track this pre-season, so it wouldn’t be a surprise if he earns a spot in the starting 18 come round one, but veteran Jack Viney gets the nod at this stage. With Rivers set to be unleashed into the midfield, a spot starting spot across half-back is up for grabs, with second-year player Xavier Lindsay\u00a0or recruit Changkuoth Jiath likely contenders. Jake Bowey would be a certain starter, but a Lisfranc injury is expected to sideline him until at least the middle of the season. How the rest of the backline shapes up remains equally intriguing, with an abundance of tall options at Steven King’s disposal. The Dees tried to offload Steven May\u00a0last trade period which suggests he could be down the pecking order at selection, with Jake Lever, Daniel Turner and Harry Petty\u00a0likely ahead of him. However, Turner and Petty’s ability to play forward keeps the door ajar for May if needs arise. Tom McDonald will also be heavily considered. First-round pick Xavier Taylor\u00a0is unlucky to miss here, but he’ll be given ample opportunity in his debut season. – Alison O’Connor<\/p>\n
Jack Steele after joining Melbourne from St Kilda ahead of the 2026 season. Picture: Melbourne FC<\/p>\n
B:\u00a0Luke McDonald, Griffin Logue, Riley Hardeman
HB:\u00a0Finn O’Sullivan, Charlie Comben, Colby McKercher
C:\u00a0Jy Simpkin, Harry Sheezel, Dylan Stephens
HF:\u00a0Charlie Spargo, Cam Zurhaar, Tom Powell
F:\u00a0Lachy Dovaston, Nick Larkey, Paul Curtis
Foll: Tristan Xerri, George Wardlaw, Luke Davies-Uniacke
I\/C: Caleb Daniel, Luke Parker, Jack Darling, Jacob Konstanty, Cooper Trembath<\/p>\n
Emerg: Aidan Corr, Zane Duursma, Wil Dawson, Cooper Harvey<\/p>\n
It’s a developing North Melbourne side, which should be sparked by the addition of first-round pick Lachy Dovaston into the attack. He’ll add a bit of spunk to a forward line that’s needed an injection of energy and could form a nice partnership with Paul Curtis. Finn O’Sullivan and Colby McKercher are likely to start across half-back, but could be part of the Kangas’ midfield and half-forward rotation at different stages. Aidan Corr has battled a calf injury that could put him behind some others early in the year, but will undoubtedly return to the mix. It’s clearly going to be a big 12 months for Zane Duursma, while Wil Dawson is another youngster expected to push for more senior opportunities. Cooper Trembath has impressed across the summer and is likely to feature early on. Jackson Archer (knee) is coach Alastair Clarkson’s only long-term injury concern. – Riley Beveridge<\/p>\n
Lachy Dovaston after being selected by the Kangaroos during the 2025 Telstra AFL Draft at Marvel Stadium. Picture: Getty Images<\/p>\n
B:\u00a0Todd Marshall, Aliir Aliir, Lachie Jones
HB:\u00a0Kane Farrell, Esava Ratugolea, Josh Sinn
C:\u00a0Jase Burgoyne, Connor Rozee, Ollie Wines
HF:\u00a0Joe Richards, Jack Lukosius, Corey Durdin
F:\u00a0Joe Berry, Ollie Lord, Mitch Georgiades
Foll:\u00a0Jordon Sweet, Zak Butters, Jason Horne-Francis
I\/C: Miles Bergman, Willem Drew, Jackson Mead, Darcy Byrne-Jones, Sam Powell-Pepper<\/p>\n
Emerg:\u00a0Brandon Zerk-Thatcher, Jacob Wehr, Christian Moraes, Ivan Soldo<\/p>\n
A new coach can often bring a few changes and the first of those under Josh Carr will be moving Todd Marshall to a key defensive post following the ruptured Achilles tendon that sidelined him last season. Not only will Carr hope the 27-year-old bolsters the defensive end, but it should give clarity in the front half of the ground, with the tall trio of Jack Lukosius, Mitch Georgiades and Ollie Lord a dangerous and diverse mix. Corey Durdin will hope for instant impact following his move from Carlton, while Joe Berry should continue to grow in his second season. Sam Powell-Pepper has been slightly delayed in his return from a knee reconstruction, but is still expected to play a good chunk of the season. –\u00a0Michael Whiting<\/p>\n
Joe Berry kicks the ball during Port Adelaide’s clash against Richmond in round two, 2025. Picture: AFL Photos<\/p>\n
FB: Nick Vlastuin, Ben Miller, Josh Gibcus
HB: Sam Banks, Noah Balta, Jayden Short\u00a0
C: Patrick Retschko, Sam Lalor, Hugo Ralphsmith
HF: Jack Ross, Jonty Faull, Rhyan Mansell
FF: Harry Armstrong, Tom Lynch, Seth Campbell
Foll: Toby Nankervis, Jacob Hopper, Tim Taranto
I\/C: Nathan Broad, Dion Prestia, Mykelti Lefau, Kane McAuliffe, Luke Trainor<\/p>\n
Emerg: Campbell Gray, Sam Grlj, Maurice Rioli jnr, James Trezise<\/p>\n
With no long-term injuries to senior players (touch wood), Richmond’s best 23 looks far healthier than last year. Hugo Ralphsmith\u00a0(hamstring) and Nick Vlastuin\u00a0(fractured ankle) are the only players of the listed 23 with concerns, and James Trezise\u00a0and Campbell Gray\u00a0the next in line if required. New kid on the block, Pat Retschko, is first in line to take the retired Kamdyn McIntosh’s spot on the wing. Mykelti Lefau\u00a0can provide ruck support, while Josh Gibcus\u00a0finally has a full pre-season under his belt. Top draftees Sam Grlj and Sam Cumming\u00a0are pushing hard to be in the frame for a round one debut, and have a big month of match simulation and practice matches to come. \u2013 Sarah Black<\/p>\n
Josh Gibcus during a Richmond training session at Punt Road Oval, August 22, 2024. Picture: Getty Images<\/p>\n
B:\u00a0Callum Wilkie, Jack Silvagni, Anthony Caminiti
HB:\u00a0Jack Sinclair,\u00a0Liam Stocker,\u00a0Alix Tauru
C:\u00a0Mason Wood, Sam Flanders, Bradley Hill
HF:\u00a0Mattaes Phillipou, Max King, Max Hall
F:\u00a0Jack Higgins, Mitchito Owens, Liam Ryan
Foll:\u00a0Tom De Koning, Jack Macrae,\u00a0Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera
I\/C:\u00a0Rowan Marshall, Marcus Windhager, Hugo Garcia, Cooper Sharman,\u00a0Darcy Wilson<\/p>\n
Emerg:\u00a0Liam\u00a0Henry,\u00a0Hugh\u00a0Boxshall,\u00a0Dougal Howard, Tobie Travaglia<\/p>\n
A host of high-profile acquisitions means St Kilda’s best 23 will look very different in 2026. Tom De Koning slots right into the No.1 ruck spot, but\u00a0rule changes open the door for the Saints to play\u00a0Rowan Marshall alongside the former Blue. Competition for midfield spots has heated up with the addition of Sam Flanders from Gold Coast and Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera’s meteoric rise, pushing promising 19-year-old Hugh Boxshall down the midfield order.\u00a0Mattaes Phillipou is also under pressure to perform as a result.\u00a0Anthony Caminiti gets the nod over veteran defender Dougal Howard, with Caminiti also able to swing forward if Max King’s knee concerns persist. Liam Henry is also in the frame if he can get his body right after an injury-interrupted two seasons. – Sophie Welsh<\/p>\n
Tom De Koning and Jack Silvagni after joining St Kilda in 2025. Picture: St Kilda FC<\/p>\n
FB:\u00a0Sam Wicks, Lewis Melican, Jai Serong
HB:\u00a0Nick Blakey, Tom McCartin, Callum Mills
C:\u00a0Errol Gulden, Chad Warner, Justin McInerney
HF:\u00a0James Jordon, Logan McDonald, Tom Papley
FF: Malcolm Rosas jnr, Charlie Curnow, Joel Amartey
Foll:\u00a0Brodie Grundy, Isaac Heeney, James Rowbottom
I\/C: Braeden Campbell, Dane Rampe, Hayden McLean, Angus Sheldrick, Matt Roberts<\/p>\n
Emerg:\u00a0Harry Cunningham, Jake Lloyd, Riley Bice, Jesse Dattoli<\/p>\n
Sydney looks absolutely stacked on paper with talent on every line, but there are still plenty of questions heading into 2026. With Charlie Curnow now the No.1 target in attack, the role Logan McDonald plays on his return from injury will be fascinating, and he’s trained in defence, up forward and even on the wing at times during his stint away from playing. Can those two plus Joel Amartey and Hayden McLean all fit into the same 23, or is that one tall too many? Recruit Malcolm Rosas jnr and youngster Jesse Dattoli could be battling for one position, effectively in place of Will Hayward in the forward line, while former Hawk Jai Serong and veteran Dane Rampe could be fighting for the same spot as the third tall in defence. There might be room for only one or two of defenders\/wingmen like Riley Bice, Matt Roberts, Harry Cunningham and Jake Lloyd, especially with Callum Mills set to start the year at half-back instead of midfield. – Martin Smith<\/p>\n
Charlie Curnow at Sydney training on January 19, 2026. Picture: Phil Hillyard<\/p>\n
B:\u00a0Reuben Ginbey, Harry Edwards, Brandon Starcevich
HB:\u00a0Liam Baker, Tylar Young, Brady Hough\u00a0
C:\u00a0Willem Duursma, Elliot Yeo,\u00a0Hamish\u00a0Davis\u00a0
HF:\u00a0Jack Graham, Jobe Shanahan, Elijah Hewett\u00a0
F:\u00a0Cooper Duff-Tytler, Jake Waterman, Jamie Cripps\u00a0\u00a0
Foll:\u00a0Matt Flynn, Harley Reid, Tom McCarthy\u00a0
I\/C:\u00a0Liam Duggan, Tim Kelly, Archer Reid, Deven Robertson, Bo Allan\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
Emerg:\u00a0Matt Owies, Jacob Newton, Ryan Maric, Harry Schoenberg\u00a0<\/p>\n
The Eagles have managed pre-season setbacks in their back six to key players Liam Baker and Brandon Starcevich, but both will play important roles this year in what is the club’s strongest line. Tylar Young was targeted specifically to fill a void as a key defender, supporting Harry Edwards, while versatile skipper Liam Duggan rounds out the defensive group. There is competition for spots on the wing, with No.1 draft pick Willem Duursma and track star Hamish Davis holding off Clay Hall and Bo Allan for now. Matt Flynn looks the preferred No.1 ruck and could get support from prized draftee Cooper Duff-Tytler, who has made a big impact in his first pre-season, or Archer Reid. Tom McCarthy and Harley Reid have been the summer standouts and line up in onball roles, with recruit Deven Robertson to rotate through. Jacob Newton will push for inclusion as he continues an excellent pre-season, as will SSP signings Harry Schoenberg and Finlay Macrae given the Eagles’ need for midfield depth.\u00a0\u2013 Nathan Schmook\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
Brandon Starcevich after joining West Coast from Brisbane for the 2026 season. Picture: West Coast Eagles<\/p>\n
B: Connor Budarick, James O\u2019Donnell, Lachie Bramble
HB:\u00a0Bailey Dale, Rory Lobb, Joel Freijah
C:\u00a0Bailey Williams, Marcus Bontempelli, Sam Davidson
HF:\u00a0Adam Treloar, Aaron Naughton, Matt Kennedy
F:\u00a0Rhylee West, Sam Darcy, Cody Weightman
Foll:\u00a0Tim English, Ed Richards, Tom Liberatore
I\/C:\u00a0Laith Vandermeer, Ryley Sanders, Josh Dolan, Oskar Baker, Buku Khamis\u00a0<\/p>\n
Emerg:\u00a0Luke Cleary, Jordan Croft, Lachie Jaques, Cooper Hynes<\/p>\n
Luke Beveridge didn’t have access to Cody Weightman at all in 2025 and will need to wait a few more months, but the livewire looms as a wildcard for the Dogs in 2026. Adam Treloar hasn’t missed a session this summer and is fighting for a spot in this 23 after a nightmare year with injuries. Connor Budarick arrived from Gold Coast and looks set to lock down a spot in defence. Second-year trio Josh Dolan, Cooper Hynes and Lachie Jaques are coming and should play a lot more senior football this year. Joel Freijah looks set for more midfield minutes this year after a breakout campaign. \u2013 Josh Gabelich<\/p>\n
Adam Treloar in action at Western Bulldogs training on January 16, 2026. Picture: AFL Photos<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Tom De Koning, Sam Draper and Christian Petracca. Pictures: AFL Photos\/St Kilda FC WITH the pre-season in full…\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":450130,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[560],"tags":[638,64,63,55,639,85,83],"class_list":{"0":"post-450129","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-afl","8":"tag-afl","9":"tag-au","10":"tag-australia","11":"tag-australian-football-league","12":"tag-australianfootballleague","13":"tag-sports","14":"tag-text"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/450129","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=450129"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/450129\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/450130"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=450129"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=450129"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=450129"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}