As February unfolds, the anticipation for the AFL pre-season intensifies, with fans eagerly awaiting the start of the 2026 season. This year, the pre-season is packed with intriguing developments, from rising stars vying for early opportunities to significant injury updates that could impact team strategies. Here’s a comprehensive look at the state of play for all 18 AFL clubs as they gear up for the new season.
Adelaide Crows: New Roles and Injury Challenges
The Adelaide Crows are set to see some exciting role changes this season. Off-season recruits Callum Ah Chee and Finnbar Maley are expected to bolster the forward line, while Alex Neal-Bullen and Ah Chee rotate between the wing and half-forward positions. Unfortunately, the Crows face a setback with breakout midfielder Daniel Curtin sidelined for the first two months due to a dislocated kneecap. Meanwhile, Josh Rachele is eager to step up in the midfield, drawing inspiration from Christian Petracca’s dynamic play.
Utility Brayden Cook is anticipated to strengthen the defense, and first-round pick Charlie Edwards is poised for a breakout year. The Crows are also monitoring Billy Dowling and Toby Murray for potential debuts. Despite experimenting with Max Michalanney in the midfield, he is expected to start the season in defense.
“I think the main goal one day is to definitely be kind of like that Christian Petracca, 50-50 (split) rolling through,” said Josh Rachele, expressing his ambitions for the midfield.
Brisbane Lions: Fitness Peaks and Injury Concerns
Brisbane Lions are witnessing a resurgence in fitness, with Lachie Neale shining in pre-season match simulations. Keidean Coleman is back in form, ready to reclaim his role as a classy ball user off half-back. New recruits Sam Draper and Oscar Allen are training without restrictions, promising to fill key roles in the ruck and forward line, respectively.
However, the Lions are not without injury woes. Eric Hipwood’s recovery from a partial ACL tear is progressing slowly, and Jack Payne is working his way back from knee surgery. Noah Answerth and Jarrod Berry are also on the mend, aiming for early-season returns. The team hopes to see Tom Doedee and Lincoln McCarthy back mid-season, bolstering their defensive and forward lines.
Carlton: New Faces and Injury Setbacks
Carlton’s off-season activity has reshaped the team, with Liam Reidy emerging as a strong contender for the No. 1 ruck position. Father-son recruit Harry Dean and 2024 No. 3 pick Jagga Smith are impressing during pre-season, with early debuts on the horizon. The team is also integrating new recruits Will Hayward, Ollie Florent, and Ben Ainsworth seamlessly.
Despite these promising developments, Carlton faces significant injury challenges. Jesse Motlop’s ACL injury is a major blow, potentially sidelining him for the entire season. Marc Pittonet, Harry McKay, and others are also dealing with various setbacks, though some, like Blake Acres, are expected to be ready for Round 1.
Collingwood: Injury Setbacks and Rising Stars
Collingwood’s pre-season is marked by a series of soft tissue injuries, with skipper Darcy Moore’s calf issue casting doubt on his Round 1 availability. Beau McCreery and other key players are also racing against time to be fit for the season opener. Meanwhile, Jordan De Goey is making a strong comeback, set to play a pivotal role in the midfield and forward line.
Josh Daicos is expected to see more midfield time, adding dynamism to the team’s play. Young talents like Ed Allan and Charlie West are pushing for more opportunities, while Nick Daicos continues to impress with his exceptional form.
Essendon: Injury-Free Aspirations and New Leadership
Essendon enters the 2026 season with a focus on avoiding the injury troubles that plagued them in 2025. New draftees Sullivan Robey, Jacob Farrow, and Dyson Sharp are set to make their mark, while Isaac Kako is catching eyes with his tackling pressure. Zach Reid is emerging as a key defensive anchor, and Nate Caddy is showcasing his aerial prowess.
Despite losing Nic Martin for the season due to a knee re-injury, the Bombers are optimistic about their prospects. Andrew McGrath takes over as captain, leading a team determined to make a strong start to the season.
Fremantle: Versatility and Injury Management
Fremantle is experimenting with versatile roles, with Luke Jackson lining up as a pure midfielder and Murphy Reid potentially spending more time in the midfield. Jye Amiss’s surprising stint on the wing highlights the team’s willingness to explore new combinations.
Injury management is a priority, with Hayden Young aiming for an uninterrupted pre-season. Sean Darcy’s minor calf strain and Luke Ryan’s shoulder recovery are being closely monitored, ensuring the team remains competitive as the season approaches.
Geelong Cats: Promising Prospects and Injury Recovery
Geelong Cats are optimistic about the upcoming season, with Mitch Edwards showing promise as a ruckman after overcoming injuries. James Worpel is fitting seamlessly into the midfield, and Jeremy Cameron is back in full training after recovering from a broken arm.
The Cats have managed to keep injuries at bay, with Toby Conway and Jake Kolodjashnij making steady recoveries. Harley Barker, however, will spend most of the season on the sidelines due to an ACL injury.
Gold Coast Suns: Rising Stars and Injury-Free Pre-Season
The Gold Coast Suns are generating excitement with Jamarra Ugle-Hagan’s impressive pre-season performance. Christian Petracca is making a significant impact, splitting time between the midfield and forward line. Young talents like Leo Lombard and Zeke Uwland are pushing for early debuts, showcasing their skills in match simulations.
Fortunately, the Suns enjoy a relatively clean bill of health, with only minor injuries affecting a few players. This positions them well for a strong start to the season.
GWS Giants: Injury Comebacks and New Talent
Stephen Coniglio is in top form for the GWS Giants, ready to lead the midfield. New recruits Jack Ough and Ollie Hannaford are adding depth to the team, while Nick Madden is set to play a more prominent role due to the new five-man bench rule.
Injury concerns persist, with Toby Greene and Jesse Hogan managing their recoveries carefully. The team is optimistic about their return, aiming to make a strong impact in the early rounds.
Hawthorn: Emerging Midfielders and Injury Setbacks
Hawthorn’s Connor Macdonald is set to take on more midfield responsibilities, impressing with his work rate and aerobic capacity. Josh Weddle and Josh Ward are also stepping up, adding depth to the Hawks’ midfield.
Unfortunately, Will Day’s shoulder surgery sidelines him for four months, and James Sicily is recovering from minor shoulder surgery. The team remains hopeful for their return, focusing on integrating young talents into the lineup.
Melbourne: New Leadership and Injury Challenges
Under new head coach Steven King, Melbourne is navigating the departures of key players Christian Petracca and Clayton Oliver. Jai Culley is making waves with his impressive athleticism, while Jack Steele and Brody Mihocek bring experience to the team.
Injuries are a concern, with Max Gawn recovering from a fractured finger and Jake Bowey sidelined with a foot injury. The team is managing a lengthy injury list, aiming to have key players fit for the season opener.
North Melbourne: New Additions and Injury Concerns
North Melbourne welcomes first-round draft pick Lachy Dovaston and free agent Charlie Spargo, adding depth to their attack. Blake Thredgold is strengthening the defense, and Cooper Trembarth is vying for a key forward role.
Injuries remain a challenge, with Paul Curtis recovering from empyema and Jackson Archer out for the season with an ACL injury. Aidan Corr and Brayden George are also working on their recoveries, aiming to contribute early in the season.
Port Adelaide: New Era and Injury Management
Port Adelaide enters a new era under head coach Josh Carr, integrating recruits like Corey Durdin and Jacob Wehr. Connor Rozee is expected to remain in a defensive role, while Todd Marshall transitions to defense after an Achilles injury.
Injury management is crucial, with Sam Powell-Pepper recovering from knee surgery and Jason Horne-Francis managing a foot issue. The team is optimistic about their return, focusing on building a competitive lineup for the season.
Richmond: Rising Stars and Injury Setbacks
Richmond’s top draft picks Sam Grlj and Sam Cumming are eyeing early debuts, while Patrick Retschko is making a case for Round 1. Josh Gibcus is enjoying an uninterrupted pre-season, eager to make an impact.
Injury setbacks persist, with Sam Lalor managing a hamstring issue and Nick Vlastuin recovering from a fractured ankle. The team is focused on integrating new talent while managing injury concerns.
St Kilda: New Recruits and Injury Recovery
St Kilda’s Sam Flanders is set to play a key role in the midfield, while Tom De Koning takes on ruck duties. Mattaes Phillipou is making a strong comeback, and Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera is impressing with his midfield performance.
Injury recovery is a priority, with Max King undergoing knee surgery and Tom De Koning managing a calf issue. The team is optimistic about their return, aiming for a strong start to the season.
Sydney Swans: Rising Stars and Injury Management
Charlie Curnow is in top form for the Sydney Swans, ready to make an impact in the forward line. Draftee Harry Kyle is pushing for an early debut, while Errol Gulden and Jai Serong are impressing on the track.
Injury management is crucial, with Taylor Adams recovering from a concussion and Logan McDonald returning from an ankle injury. The team is focused on integrating new talent while managing injury concerns.
West Coast Eagles: New Roles and Injury Challenges
Tom McCarthy is set to take on a full-time midfield role for the West Coast Eagles, impressing with his clean play. Harley Reid and Jacob Newton are also making their mark, adding depth to the midfield.
Injury challenges persist, with Brody Hough sidelined with an ankle injury and Brandon Starcevich managing an ACL strain. The team is focused on building a competitive lineup while managing injury concerns.
Western Bulldogs: Rising Stars and Injury Setbacks
Sam Darcy is generating excitement for the Western Bulldogs, showcasing his goal-scoring prowess in pre-season simulations. Lachie Jaques is pushing for an early debut, while Tim English is experimenting with new roles.
Injury setbacks continue to challenge the team, with Cody Weightman managing a knee injury and Riley Garcia sidelined with a hamstring issue. The Bulldogs are focused on integrating new talent while managing injury concerns.
As the AFL pre-season progresses, teams are navigating role changes, injury recoveries, and the integration of new talent. With the season just around the corner, fans can look forward to an exciting year of football.
