Zak Butters, Rowan Marshall, Lachie Whitfield. Pictures: Western Bulldogs FC\/AFL Photos\/Carlton FC<\/p>\n
WITH the annual player movement period done and dusted for another year, there will be fresh faces running around for most teams in 2027.<\/p>\n
So who gets the nod? Who’s on the bench? Who misses out?<\/p>\n
Here’s how we see your club’s best line-up for next season, assuming everyone is available.\u00a0Did we get it right?<\/p>\n
*Players in italics are new to the club<\/p>\n
Editor’s note: This is the best possible 23 for each club next season, so players with short-term injuries have been included. Players with long-term unavailability have not been included.<\/p>\n
B:\u00a0Josh Worrell, James Borlase, Max Michalanney\u00a0
HB:\u00a0Luke Nankervis, Mark Keane, Wayne Milera
C:\u00a0Brayden Cook, Daniel Curtin, Alex Neal-Bullen
HF: Callum Ah Chee, Riley Thilthorpe, Zac Taylor
F:\u00a0Ben Keays, Darcy Fogarty, Josh Rachele
Foll:\u00a0Lachlan McAndrew, Jordan Dawson, Izak Rankine\u00a0
I\/C:\u00a0Sam Berry, Jake Soligo, Rory Laird, Hugo Hall-Kahan, Sid Draper\u00a0<\/p>\n
Emerg:\u00a0James Peatling, Toby Murray, Nick Murray, Charlie Edwards<\/p>\n
The Crows were desperate to hang on to key defender Nick Murray but he is still not a lock in their best 23, with Mark Keane and James Borlase the September incumbents, and Josh Worrell a strong third tall. Murray could clearly lock down a key post, however, with a strong summer and a better run with injury after several interruptions in 2026. Sydney recruit\u00a0Harry Cunningham brings leadership and adds depth, but he’ll have to force his way into the 23. There will also be a watch on young midfielders Sid Draper and Charlie Edwards to break in and provide the organic improvement the Crows need after failing to land Zac Bailey. Some of that growth should also come from young star Dan Curtin’s progression to an inside midfield role. Lachie McAndrew attended the most ruck contests of any big man in 2026, and he’ll need to again if key forward Riley Thilthorpe is used as his back up.\u00a0\u2013 Nathan Schmook<\/p>\n
Nick Murray during the R15 match between Adelaide and Melbourne at Adelaide Oval on June 20, 2026. Picture: AFL Photos<\/p>\n
B:\u00a0Ryan Lester, Harris Andrews, Noah Answerth
HB:\u00a0Dayne Zorko, Ty Gallop, Jaspa Fletcher
C:\u00a0Jarrod Berry, Will Ashcroft, Dan Annable
HF:\u00a0Zac Bailey, Eric Hipwood, Cam Rayner
F:\u00a0Charlie Cameron, Oscar Allen, Logan Morris
Foll:\u00a0Sam Draper, Hugh McCluggage, Josh Dunkley
I\/C:\u00a0Darcy Wilmot, Levi Ashcroft, Conor McKenna, Kai Lohmann, Darcy Fort\u00a0<\/p>\n
Emerg:\u00a0Darcy Gardiner, Bruce Reville, Jimmy Tunstill, Henry Smith<\/p>\n
Fresh off three straight premierships there’s a lot of stability in this Lions outfit. Lachie Neale’s departure opens the door for at least one change, with Dan Annable and Bruce Reville likely to fight for a wing spot that will pave the way for Levi Ashcroft to get more midfield minutes. Jack Payne is also expected to be back after missing the past 18 months with knee injuries, although with so long out of the game, will have to work his way back into the senior team. Noah Answerth was the hard-luck story to miss out on the Grand Final but is still in Brisbane’s best defensive mix when everyone is fit. Although some depth was eroded during the trade period, Annable, Reville, Jimmy Tunstill and\u00a0Shadeau Brain\u00a0are all itching for more senior opportunities. \u2013 Michael Whiting<\/p>\n
Daniel Annable in action during the match between Sydney and Brisbane at the SCG in round one, 2026. Picture: Getty Images<\/p>\n
B:\u00a0Lachie Cowan, Jacob Weitering, Nick Haynes
HB:\u00a0Ollie Florent, Harry Dean, Lachie Whitfield
C:\u00a0Adam Cerra, Jagga Smith, Cody Walker
HF:\u00a0Ben Ainsworth, Harry McKay, Will Hayward
F:\u00a0Brodie Kemp, Joel Amartey, Talor Byrne
Foll: Marc Pittonet, Patrick Cripps, Sam Walsh
I\/C:\u00a0Billy Wilson, George Hewett, Cooper Lord, Francis Evans, Matt Cottrell<\/p>\n
Emerg: Ollie Hollands, Mitch McGovern, Blake Acres, Wade Derkson<\/p>\n
There are a few new faces expected to slot into Carlton’s team immediately including trade recruit Lachie Whitfield and free agent Joel Amartey. There’s every chance Cody Walker finds himself in Josh Fraser’s round one plans once he arrives at the club as a father-son in November’s draft as well. A name to watch is Harry O’Farrell, who is highly rated as a young key defensive option and will undoubtedly work his way back into the Blues’ plans when he fully recovers from an ACL injury. Matt Carroll will also feature heavily when he returns from his own knee issue. It looks a far more dynamic Carlton side than it did this time 12 months ago, while there’s now experience and depth in reserve. – Riley Beveridge<\/p>\n
Lachie Whitfield after joining Carlton from Greater Western Sydney. Picture: Carlton FC<\/p>\n
B:\u00a0Brayden Maynard, Billy Frampton, Jeremy Howe
HB:\u00a0Isaac Quaynor, Darcy Moore, Harry Perryman
C:\u00a0Sam Swadling, Ed Allan, Josh Daicos
HF:\u00a0Beau McCreery, Dan McStay, Jordan De Goey
F:\u00a0Lachie Schultz, Jesse Hogan, Jamie Elliott
Foll:\u00a0Darcy Cameron, Nick Daicos, Lachie Neale
I\/C:\u00a0Oscar Steene, Jack Crisp, Dan Houston, Will Hayes, Pat Lipinski<\/p>\n
Emerg: Angus Anderson, Tim Membrey, Roan Steele, Charlie West<\/p>\n
The Pies will hope Lachie Neale and Jesse Hogan are set as they look to move up the ladder in 2027, while there could be some other positional moves elsewhere. The Pies’ depth of defensive runners should allow Josh Daicos to move up onto a wing, while Sam Swadling showed enough this year to be a permanent member of the best 23. Oscar Steene worked well with Darcy Cameron this year and, when fit, should earn a recall, while Jamie Elliott is a certain starter once he recovers from his knee injury. The arrival of Hogan and return of Elliott could squeeze one or both of Tim Membrey and Charlie West out of the side, while Neale’s arrival and the development of Ed Allan is set to be bad news for the likes of Ned Long. The presence of Will Hayes in this side ahead of some more credentialed players may surprise, but he offers a point of difference as a genuine crumbing small forward. Reef McInnes could come into calculations again if he gets his body right, while Angus Anderson is unlucky to not make this team and will surely feature at some stage during the season. – Martin Smith<\/p>\n
Lachie Neale after joining Collingwood from Brisbane. Picture: Collingwood FC<\/p>\n
B: Andrew McGrath, Lewis Hayes, Archie Roberts
HB: Mason Redman, Zach Reid, Keidean Coleman
C: Jacob Farrow, Sam Durham, Brayden Fiorini
HF: Nic Martin, Peter Wright, Sullivan Robey
F: Isaac Kako, Nate Caddy, Archer May
Foll: Nick Bryan, Jye Caldwell, Dyson Sharp
I\/C: Darcy Parish, Jack Bowes, Xavier Duursma, Kyle Langford, Archie Perkins<\/p>\n
Emerg: Archer Day-Wicks, Hussien El Achkar, Zak Johnson, Will Setterfield<\/p>\n
The Bombers will field one of the youngest and least experienced teams again in 2027 as they embark on another year of their rebuild. Keidean Coleman walks into their back half as their best field kick and should take the kick-ins permanently. Jack Bowes will also add flexibility to their mix and defensive run. But the Bombers will need to find cover for Zach Merrett’s departure and will hope Nic Martin can do that as he eyes a return from his long absence with knee injuries. You would also expect the Bombers’ No.1 pick to very quickly be playing in their best 23 next year once they get through November’s draft. – Callum Twomey<\/p>\n
Nic Martin during an Essendon training session at The Hangar on May 28, 2026. Picture: AFL Photos<\/p>\n
B:\u00a0Heath Chapman, Alex Pearce, Karl Worner
HB:\u00a0Jordan Clark, Brennan Cox, Judd McVee\u00a0
C:\u00a0Neil Erasmus, Andrew Brayshaw, Matthew Johnson\u00a0
HF:\u00a0Murphy Reid, Josh Treacy, Shai Bolton
F:\u00a0Isaiah Dudley, Jye Amiss, Pat Voss\u00a0
Foll:\u00a0Luke Jackson, Caleb Serong, Hayden Young\u00a0
I\/C:\u00a0Sean Darcy, Michael Frederick, Corey Wagner, Luke Ryan, Chris Scerri\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
Emerg:\u00a0Brandon Walker, Hugh Davies, Tobyn Murray, Jaeger O’Meara<\/p>\n
There are three spots under the spotlight for the Dockers in 2027, with a vacancy at half-forward after Sam Switkowski’s departure and the seventh defender and second ruck spots up for debate. At half-forward, Chris Scerri and Tobyn Murray are leading contenders while first-round draft pick Adam Sweid could press his claims with a big summer after missing out on an AFL debut in 2026. In defence, Luke Ryan could face competition from Brandon Walker if the Dockers want to play a specialist small defender, or Hugh Davies if the improving key defender is needed as a third tall. The Dockers have the versatility in their backline to adjust to either, while captain Alex Pearce is on track to play early after escaping a serious Achilles tendon injury in the Grand Final. Jaeger O’Meara had a big pre-season leading into 2026 and would need to do likewise to reassert himself in the 23, while Cooper Simpson is one to watch after a big WAFL Grand Final if the Dockers want more speed and rebounding options in defence. A fit Sean Darcy improves the Dockers as the second ruck.\u00a0\u2013 Nathan Schmook\u00a0<\/p>\n
Christopher Scerri during the round 10 match between Essendon and Walyalup (Fremantle) at the MCG, May 17, 2026. Picture: AFL Photos<\/p>\n
B:\u00a0Zach Guthrie, Connor O’Sullivan, Jack Henry
HB:\u00a0Tom Stewart, Jordan Ridley, Lawson Humphries
C:\u00a0Ollie Dempsey, Oisin Mullin, Bailey Smith
HF:\u00a0Shaun Mannagh, Jeremy Cameron, Gryan Miers
F:\u00a0Toby Greene, Shannon Neale, Patrick Dangerfield
Foll: Rowan Marshall, Max Holmes, Tanner Bruhn
I\/C:\u00a0Sam De Koning, Tom Atkins, Mitch Edwards, Ollie Henry, Mark Blicavs<\/p>\n
Emerg:\u00a0Mark O’Connor, James Worpel, Jack Martin, Oli Wiltshire<\/p>\n
The Cats’ best 23 for 2027 balances elite veteran star power with exciting future development. Key off-season additions instantly elevate their ceiling: Jordan Ridley strengthens the backline as a premium intercept defender. At the same time, Toby Greene joins a potent forward line alongside Jeremy Cameron and Patrick Dangerfield. Crucially, Rowan Marshall arrives as Geelong’s projected No.1 ruck, providing the frontline presence the club has long sought. His combination with young tall Mitch Edwards offers an intriguing long-term partnership. Marshall’s mobility allows him to push forward and hit the scoreboard, complementing Edwards’ continued development as a traditional ruck. With the club “super bullish” on Edwards’ long-term upside, this set-up allows the Cats to trial a dual-ruck model, keeping Marshall fresh while providing Edwards with invaluable senior exposure in a side firmly in the premiership window. – Emily Patterson<\/p>\n
Rowan Marshall on October 9, 2026 after getting a trade to Geelong. Picture: AFL Photos<\/p>\n
B:\u00a0Bodhi Uwland, Sam Collins, Wil Powell
HB:\u00a0John Noble, Mac Andrew, Daniel Rioli
C:\u00a0Zeke Uwland, Christian Petracca, Lachie Weller
HF:\u00a0Bailey Humphrey, Ethan Read, Touk Miller
F:\u00a0Leo Lombard, Jed Walter, Ben Long
Foll:\u00a0Ned Moyle, Matt Rowell, Noah Anderson
I\/C:\u00a0Joel Jeffrey, Will Graham, Sam Clohesy, Scott Pendlebury, Jake Rogers\u00a0<\/p>\n
Emerg:\u00a0Charlie Ballard, Alex Davies, Lachie Gulbin, Jarrod Witts<\/p>\n
Much like the start of last year Damien Hardwick has a lot of options and will need the pre-season to figure out who plays where. Ben King was the major off-season departure, but rather than replace him with a tall, the Suns seem best equipped to go smaller in the forward half alongside youngsters Jed Walter and Ethan Read.\u00a0Aidan Schubert came from the Hawks, along with Sam Butler, but both would need to impress in their first pre-season to force their way in.\u00a0The backline is relatively settled, with the major decision being whether to play a third genuine tall in Charlie Ballard or entrust reigning best and fairest Bodhi Uwland with the responsibility of playing on taller opponents. Scott Pendlebury won’t play every week but brings a sense of calm to a sometimes-chaotic team, while Will Graham’s return is significant. Alex Davies, Lachie Gulbin, Jai Murray and Beau Addinsall will be bashing the door down for chances. \u2013\u00a0Michael Whiting<\/p>\n
Scott Pendlebury after joining Gold Coast from Collingwood. Picture: Gold Coast FC<\/p>\n
B:\u00a0Sam Taylor, Jack Buckley, Connor Idun
HB:\u00a0Joe Fonti, Harry Himmelberg, Lachie Ash
C:\u00a0Harvey Thomas, Clayton Oliver, Finn Callaghan
HF:\u00a0Brent Daniels, Max Gruzewski, Callum Brown
F:\u00a0Darcy Jones, Aaron Cadman, Phoenix Gothard
Foll:\u00a0Nick Madden, Tom Green, Josh Kelly
I\/C:\u00a0Jayden Laverde, Ethan Matthews, Toby Bedford, Ryan Angwin, Stephen Coniglio<\/p>\n
Emerg:\u00a0Leek Aleer, Xavier O’Halloran, James Leake, Oliver Hannaford<\/p>\n
The Giants’ best 23 for 2027 features a strong spine, proven midfield depth and an exciting blend of established stars and emerging talent. The side will receive an early-season boost when Jack Buckley (calf), Josh Kelly (hip), Brent Daniels (calf), Darcy Jones (ACL), Phoenix Gothard (shoulder), Tom Green (ACL) and Finn Callaghan (ankle) return from injury during the opening rounds. In defence, Sam Taylor, Buckley, Connor Idun and Harry Himmelberg form a formidable key-position backbone, while Joe Fonti and Lachie Ash provide run and rebound. The midfield remains a major strength, with Green, Clayton Oliver and Kelly offering clearance power alongside developing ruck Nick Madden. Callaghan and Harvey Thomas add outside class and versatility. Up forward, Aaron Cadman and Max Gruzewski headline the key targets, while Daniels, Jones and Gothard bring speed and pressure. Top Academy prospect Ethan Matthews joins Stephen Coniglio, Toby Bedford, Jayden Laverde and Ryan Angwin in a versatile interchange rotation. – Emily Patterson<\/p>\n
Tom Green is seen after hurting his knee at Greater Western Sydney training on February 13, 2026. Picture: Phil Hillyard<\/p>\n
B:\u00a0Blake Hardwick, Tom Barrass, Josh Battle
HB:\u00a0Jarman Impey, James Sicily,\u00a0Karl Amon
C:\u00a0Massimo D’Ambrosio, Jai Newcombe,\u00a0Josh Weddle
HF:\u00a0Dylan Moore, Mitch Lewis, Connor Macdonald
F:\u00a0Nick Watson, Ben King, Jack Gunston
Foll:\u00a0Lloyd Meek, Will Day, Zach Merrett
I\/C:\u00a0Conor Nash, Josh Ward, Jack Ginnivan,\u00a0Cam Mackenzie, Mabior Chol<\/p>\n
Emerg:\u00a0Noah Mraz,\u00a0Bailey Macdonald, Harry Morrison, Ollie Greeves<\/p>\n
Hawthorn’s best 23 is becoming increasingly difficult to squeeze into one side, with the arrivals of\u00a0Ben King\u00a0and\u00a0Zach Merrett\u00a0adding further star power to an already stacked list. King,\u00a0Jack Gunston\u00a0and\u00a0Mitch Lewis\u00a0provide a formidable tall combination, with Hawthorn’s dangerous group of small and medium forwards set to feast at ground level. Merrett bolsters a midfield already featuring\u00a0Jai Newcombe\u00a0and\u00a0Will Day, giving Sam Mitchell another elite ball-winner and experienced head around the contest.\u00a0Mabior Chol\u00a0is pushed to the bench but provides an option as a second ruck as well as pressure rotating through the attacking 50. Question marks remain over\u00a0Karl Amon’s knee that could see\u00a0Bailey Macdonald\u00a0or\u00a0Noah Mraz\u00a0take his place in the line-up, while there are plenty of other youngsters on the fringes of selection.\u00a0– Brandon Cohen<\/p>\n
Zach Merrett after joining Hawthorn from Essendon. Picture: Hawthorn FC<\/p>\n
B:\u00a0Blake Howes, Daniel Turner, Changkuoth Jiath
HB:\u00a0Jake Bowey, Jake Lever, Christian Salem
C:\u00a0Ed Langdon, Tom Sparrow, Harvey Langford
HF:\u00a0Kade Chandler, Jacob van Rooyen, Bayley Fritsch
F:\u00a0Harry Sharp, Brody Mihocek, Harrison Petty
Foll:\u00a0Max Gawn, Kysaiah Pickett, Jack Steele
I\/C:\u00a0Caleb Windsor, Zane Duursma, Koltyn Tholstrup, Xavier Lindsay, Joel Fitzgerald<\/p>\n
Emerg:\u00a0Xavier Taylor, Jai Culley, Matt Jefferson, Latrelle Pickett<\/p>\n
The Demons continue their build with youth and exuberance at their core. It’s\u00a0Kysaiah Pickett’s midfield now, with a mix of experienced and fresh faces set to rotate alongside him. After getting the best out of a number of players in his first season in charge, back Steven King to do the same with former No.4 pick\u00a0Zane Duursma, who should find his place in the side early in the season. Recruit\u00a0Will McLachlan\u00a0and young developing forward\u00a0Matt Jefferson\u00a0will be battling it out for a spot in the forward mix alongside\u00a0Brody Mihocek,\u00a0Jacob van Rooyen\u00a0and\u00a0Harrison Petty, although much hinges on the availability of Mihocek who is still recovering from a horrific neck injury. But once fit and available, he is a walk-up start.\u00a0Jai Culley\u00a0should also find his way back into the side when he returns early in the season from an ACL injury. Ex-Hawk\u00a0Bodie Ryan\u00a0was a surprise pick-up very late in the trade period and could be a good option to fill Trent Rivers’ role down back after his move to West Coast. The Demons are set to add even more high-end talent in November’s draft with picks four and 14, so competition for spots will be fierce. –\u00a0Alison O’Connor<\/p>\n
Zane Duursma after joining Melbourne from North Melbourne. Picture: Melbourne FC<\/p>\n
B:\u00a0Riley Hardeman, Wil Dawson, Griffin Logue
HB:\u00a0Caleb Daniel, Charlie Comben, Nick Blakey
C: Finn O’Sullivan, Harry Sheezel, Jy Simpkin
HF:\u00a0Colby McKercher, Cooper Trembath, Charlie Spargo
F: Paul Curtis, Nick Larkey, Cam Zurhaar
Foll: Tristan Xerri, George Wardlaw, Luke Davies-Uniacke
I\/C:\u00a0Aidan Corr, Dylan Stephens, Tom Powell, Luke Parker, Jack Darling<\/p>\n
Emerg: Lachy Dovaston, Luke McDonald, Taylor Goad, Jackson Archer<\/p>\n
There’s a lot of unknown around how first-year coach Jaymie Graham will look to shape this North Melbourne side, but there’s undoubtedly high-end quality for him to work with. The majority of that comes in a midfield that will feature heavy doses of Harry Sheezel, George Wardlaw, Luke Davies-Uniacke, Finn O’Sullivan and Colby McKercher, as well as behind the ball now thanks to new addition, Nick Blakey. You would love to see a couple of young key-position talents break through and provide options at either end. Wil Dawson and Blake Thredgold are the two to watch down back, while Matt Whitlock has shown glimpses forward. It would also be nice if Taylor Goad continues his development and adds some dynamism alongside Tristan Xerri in the ruck. It could be an exciting year for the Kangas. – Riley Beveridge<\/p>\n
Nick Blakey and father John after he was unveiled as a North Melbourne player on October 13, 2026. Picture: NMFC<\/p>\n
B:\u00a0Lachie Jones, Esava Ratugolea, Josh Lai
HB:\u00a0Kane Farrell, Aliir Aliir, Darcy Byrne-Jones
C:\u00a0Jase Burgoyne, Miles Bergman, Dougie Cochrane
HF:\u00a0Joe Richards, Jack Lukosius, Corey Durdin
F:\u00a0Joe Berry, Mitch Georgiades, Jack Whitlock
Foll:\u00a0Jordon Sweet, Connor Rozee, Jason Horne-Francis
I\/C:\u00a0Harrison Ramm, Luke Pedlar, Willem Drew, Ollie Wines, Xavier Bamert\u00a0<\/p>\n
Emerg:\u00a0Todd Marshall, Christian Moraes, Jackson Mead, Dante Visentini<\/p>\n
There’s no way you can replace Zak Butters, but if Port can have a fully fit \u2013 and that’s a big if \u2013 team on the park, it should be competitive most of the season. Connor Rozee and Esava Ratugolea still face uncertain timelines, and a strong campaign from Jack Lukosius would go a long way to improvement following a couple of injury-interrupted years for the former Sun. Dougie Cochrane is not yet officially a Port player but will come in via the draft and could be played anywhere, while Luke Pedlar should make an impact after moving from the crosstown rivals the Crows. Jase Burgoyne has been selected on a wing, although he thrived with more midfield minutes late in the season and could certainly be used there again depending on availability. \u2013 Michael Whiting<\/p>\n
Dougie Cochrane marks infront of Darcy Szerszyn during the Marsh AFL National Futures Boys match between Team Boak and Team Docherty at the MCG on September 27, 2025. Picture: AFL Photos<\/p>\n
FB:\u00a0Nick Vlastuin, Ben Miller, Kye Annand
HB:\u00a0Sam Grlj, Noah Balta, Jayden Short
C:\u00a0Nathan O’Driscoll, Jack Ross, Pat Retschko
HF:\u00a0Taj Hotton, Jonty Faull, Seth Campbell
FF:\u00a0Rhyan Mansell, Tom Lynch, Mykelti Lefau
Foll:\u00a0Toby Nankervis, Sam Lalor, Tim Taranto
Int:\u00a0Jacob Hopper, Luke Trainor, Judson Clarke, Sam Cumming, Kieren Briggs<\/p>\n
Emerg:\u00a0Hugo Ralphsmith, Josh Smillie, Sam Banks, Kane McAuliffe<\/p>\n
The beauty of having near-half a squad injured at the end of 2026, is that theoretically, most should be fit to start the 2027 season, with plenty having been sent in for surgery early to prime them for pre-season. Ruck recruit Kieren Briggs comes straight into the 23, as does ex-Docker Nathan O’Driscoll to add some dash on the wing. Nathan Broad and Dion Prestia have retired, while Tyler Sonsie and Steely Green were the most regular senior players delisted. A fully fit Josh Smillie should be best 23, but we’ve still never seen him at the top level, so it’s difficult to justify an inclusion at this point. Tom Brown, Harry Armstrong and Josh Gibcus are in the next wave who are easy inclusions should injuries flare. \u2013 Sarah Black<\/p>\n
Kieren Briggs after signing for Richmond from Greater Western Sydney. Picture: Richmond FC<\/p>\n
B:\u00a0Liam Stocker, Callum Wilkie, Jack Silvagni
HB: Jack Sinclair, Alix Tauru, Brad Hill
C:\u00a0Darcy Wilson, Marcus Windhager, Mason Wood
HF:\u00a0Mitch Owens, Max King, Max Hall
F:\u00a0Liam Ryan,\u00a0Jake Stringer, Campbell Lake
Foll:\u00a0Tom De Koning, Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera, Hugo Garcia
I\/C:\u00a0Hugh Boxshall,\u00a0Sam Marshall, Ryan Byrnes, Angus Hastie, Cooper Sharman<\/p>\n
Emerg:\u00a0Alex Dodson, Charlie Banfield, Mattaes Phillipou, Jack Higgins\u00a0<\/p>\n
After a relatively quiet trade period for the Saints, the only real change to their best 23 is subbing one\u00a0Marshall\u00a0(Rowan) out for another (Sam). It means they’re slightly light-on in ruck power, while the midfield squeeze becomes a bit tighter.\u00a0Sam\u00a0Flanders\u00a0is likely to miss at least the start of the season with an Achilles injury, while\u00a0Tom De Koning\u00a0will have to shoulder most of the ruck load while\u00a0Alex Dodson\u00a0develops. Competition for small forward spots will also heat up with the club set to sign\u00a0Jake Stringer\u00a0as a delisted free agent, with\u00a0Campbell Lake\u00a0and\u00a0Liam Ryan\u00a0the most likely to keep their spots in the side after strong performances in 2026. As always, the big question facing the Saints is\u00a0Max\u00a0King’s\u00a0fitness, with the key forward injuring himself in his one game in 2026. His hamstring concern is not expected to hinder his 2027 preparation, but Saints fans have heard this one before. –\u00a0Sophie Welsh<\/p>\n
B:\u00a0Will Edwards, Tom McCartin, Lewis Melican
HB:\u00a0Riley Bice, Harry Kyle, Matthew Roberts\u00a0
C:\u00a0Justin McInerney, Errol Gulden, Jai Serong\u00a0
HF:\u00a0Isaac Heeney, Logan McDonald, Braeden Campbell\u00a0
F:\u00a0Hayden McLean, Charlie Curnow, Tom Papley\u00a0
Foll:\u00a0Brodie Grundy, Chad Warner, James Rowbottom\u00a0
I\/C:\u00a0James Jordon, Angus Sheldrick, Sam Wicks, Jesse Dattoli, Jake Lloyd<\/p>\n
Emerg:\u00a0Dane Rampe, Joel Hamling, Billy Cootee, Corey Warner<\/p>\n
Looking ahead to 2027, Sydney appears set to boast one of the competition’s strongest lists, headlined by a powerful spine featuring Charlie Curnow, Logan McDonald and Tom McCartin. Key defender Will Edwards, who suffered a severe ankle fracture in early August, faces an uncertain return date as he continues his rehabilitation, though he is expected to further bolster a backline alongside Lewis Melican once fully fit. The Swans should also regain significant firepower through Isaac Heeney, Chad Warner, James Jordon and Riley Bice, with the quartet expected to return immediately after being stood down late in the season for breaching club standards. Meanwhile, veteran leader Dane Rampe’s playing future remains undecided. Still, his experience keeps him firmly in the selection frame, with the former co-captain joining Joel Hamling, Billy Cootee and Corey Warner as experienced depth options outside the best 23. – Emily Patterson<\/p>\n
Charlie Curnow and Logan McDonald celebrate after the Opening Round match between Sydney and Carlton at the SCG on March 5, 2026. Picture: Getty Images\/AFL Photos<\/p>\n
B:\u00a0Brandon Starcevich, Rhett Bazzo, Josh Lindsay
HB:\u00a0Tom McCarthy, Reuben Ginbey, Trent Rivers\u00a0
C:\u00a0Willem Duursma, Deven Robertson, Bo Allan\u00a0
HF:\u00a0Jack Graham, Jobe Shanahan, Liam Baker
F:\u00a0Milan Murdock, Jake Waterman, Cooper Duff-Tytler\u00a0
Foll:\u00a0Bailey Williams, Harley Reid, Tim Kelly
I\/C: Elliot Yeo, Jack Viney, Liam Duggan, Brady Hough,\u00a0pick No.3<\/p>\n
Emerg:\u00a0Archer Reid,\u00a0Elijah Hewett, Marcus Herbert,\u00a0Tylar Young<\/p>\n
There is depth at half-back, but Trent Rivers slots straight in after joining the club and could also push to be a midfield option alongside fellow Melbourne recruit Jack Viney. Key defender Harry Edwards is not selected in this 23 but will be an important inclusion if he continues his progress and returns from concussion issues. Deven Robertson was impressive before his ACL injury and should return strongly, with Liam Baker selected in attack given the need for another small pressure forward. Willem Duursma is picked on the wing but will be ready for more inside midfield time, and there is a watch on specialist winger Sam Allen to rocket into the team if he can have a big pre-season. The Eagles have several versatile players and Brady Hough earns selection here as a tagger, while Elliot Yeo is on the bench as a forward option. Competition will come for players like Yeo and Liam Duggan, however, with Elijah Hewett a player who could easily return to the 23 with a big pre-season in the midfield. The Eagles will also land a talented teenager with their first pick in the Draft, which could see a local product like Larke Medal winner Heath Mellody debut early if selected by the club. \u2013 Nathan Schmook<\/p>\n
Trent Rivers after joining West Coast from Melbourne. Picture: West Coast FC<\/p>\n
B:\u00a0Connor Budarick, Jordon Butts, Buku Khamis
HB:\u00a0Bailey Dale, James O’Donnell, Bailey Williams
C:\u00a0Joel Freijah, Ed Richards, Ryley Sanders
HF:\u00a0Cody Weightman, Aaron Naughton, Matt Kennedy
F:\u00a0Rhylee West, Sam Darcy, Arthur Jones
Foll:\u00a0Tim English, Marcus Bontempelli, Zak Butters
I\/C:\u00a0Cooper Hynes, Lachlan Bramble, Michael Sellwood, Rory Lobb, Sam Davidson<\/p>\n
Emerg:\u00a0Finn Maginness, Jordan Croft, Josh Dolan, Lachie Jaques<\/p>\n
The arrival of Zak Butters makes the Bulldogs’ midfield one of the game’s best as the former Port Adelaide star joins Marcus Bontempelli and Ed Richards in the engine room, which has no shortage of depth with the likes of Joel Freijah, Matt Kennedy and Ryley Sanders among other options. Jordon Butts’ arrival as a free agent from Adelaide is also a huge boost and could allow Buku Khamis to play a more intercepting role. The Dogs will also welcome back Sam Darcy, who missed most of 2026 after rupturing his ACL in round six. Khaled El Souki could add to the Bulldogs’ small forward options if the club lands at Next Generation Academy prospect in November’s draft. \u2013 Dejan Kalinic<\/p>\n
Zak Butters poses during a media opportunity after signing with the Western Bulldogs at Whitten Oval on October 12, 2026. Picture: AFL Photos<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Zak Butters, Rowan Marshall, Lachie Whitfield. Pictures: Western Bulldogs FC\/AFL Photos\/Carlton FC WITH the annual player movement period…\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":938755,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[560],"tags":[638,64,63,55,639,85],"class_list":["post-938754","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-afl","tag-afl","tag-au","tag-australia","tag-australian-football-league","tag-australianfootballleague","tag-sports"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/938754","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=938754"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/938754\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/938755"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=938754"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=938754"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=938754"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}