The 2026 AFL pre-season is in full swing, with match simulations offering fans a glimpse into the strategies and new faces of various clubs. As the regular season approaches, these simulations provide an opportunity to assess player performances and tactical adjustments. Here's a breakdown of the key points from the match simulations, focusing on the new and emerging players who are making their mark.
Adelaide Crows:
- Callum Ah Chee is set to rotate with Alex Neal-Bullen on the wing, showcasing the Crows' versatility.
- Finnbar Maley's performance will be crucial, as he aims to impress in his pre-season debut.
- Zac Taylor, Luke Nankervis, Brayden Cook, and Hugh Bond are among the fringe players vying for starting spots.
Brisbane Lions:
- Keidean Coleman's health and role in the backline are key points of interest.
- Noah Answerth returns, adding depth to the defense.
- Oscar Allen and Tom Doedee are set to make an impact, with Sam Marshall and Dan Annable also pushing for senior spots.
Carlton:
- Jagga Smith is a standout performer, ready to take on the midfield.
- Sam Walsh and Will Hayward form a fresh-looking forward line.
- Harry Dean and Jacob Weitering are key defenders, with Nic Newman and Ollie Florent adding class to the back half.
Collingwood:
- Charlie West and Jack Buller are in the mix for midfield spots.
- Ed Allan is likely to get more opportunities in the engine room.
- Tyan Prindable and Joel Cochran are emerging players to watch.
Essendon:
- Jacob Farrow and Dyson Sharp are set for potential Round 1 debuts.
- Hussien El Achkar is a goalsneak to watch, with Isaac Kako missing due to a hamstring issue.
- Brayden Fiorini is a free agency acquisition making a strong impression.
Fremantle:
- Luke Jackson is set to play as a pure midfielder, adding depth to the midfield.
- Hayden Young can spend more time forward, showcasing his damaging abilities.
- Judd McVee is seamlessly integrating into the back six, tagging and distributing effectively.
Geelong Cats:
- Rhys Stanley and Mark Blicavs remain the key ruck options.
- Toby Conway is building after injuries, with Mitch Edwards emerging as a young ruck.
- James Worpel and Tanner Bruhn are making strong impressions, with Shannon Neale and Sam De Koning providing support.
Gold Coast Suns:
- Jamarra Ugle-Hagan is a standout forward, with Jed Walter also pushing for impact.
- Ben King is a mainstay, with Ethan Read and Wil Powell adding depth.
- Christian Petracca is set to be a weapon in the center, partnering with Touk Miller.
GWS Giants:
- Clayton Oliver and Finn Callaghan are key midfield players.
- Harry Rowston is set to step up in his fourth year.
- Ollie Hannaford, Harry Oliver, and Cody Angove are top-25 picks pushing for impact.
Hawthorn:
- Nick Watson and Connor Macdonald are standout performers in the 'Hokball rascal pack'.
- Josh Weddle adds depth to the midfield.
- Lloyd Meek and Ned Reeves are key rucks, with Mitch Lewis and Calsher Dear providing support.
Melbourne:
- Caleb Windsor is a speedster likely to benefit from more midfield time.
- Brody Mihocek continues to acclimate to the forward line.
- Harvey Langford and Xavier Lindsay are second-year players pushing for midfield minutes.
North Melbourne:
- Finn O'Sullivan is set to push up around the ball in his second year.
- Colby McKercher and Harry Sheezel are key players in defense and midfield.
- Cooper Trembath and Lachy Dovaston are mid-season draftees pushing for Round 1 spots.
Port Adelaide:
- Connor Rozee is set to play more around the ball, with Zak Butters adding depth.
- Will Brodie is a forgotten engine-room player making a comeback.
- Jacob Wehr and Todd Marshall are new names to watch in defense and forward.
Richmond:
- Sam Grlj and Sam Cumming are pushing for early-season debuts.
- Jonty Faull, Taj Hotton, Harry Armstrong, and Luke Trainor are key names to watch.
- Pat Retschko is a trade recruit making a solid impact on the wing.
St Kilda:
- Tom De Koning, Jack Silvagni, Sam Flanders, and Liam Ryan are new names to watch.
- Dougal Howard is likely to be the odd man out in defense.
- Rowan Marshall and Max King are key forwards, with Cooper Sharman providing support.
Sydney Swans:
- Charlie Curnow is a clear standout, fit and firing after a seismic trade.
- Malcolm Rosas, Jai Serong, and Ned Bowman are pushing for the Opening Round line-up.
- Harry Kyle is a top pick from the 2025 draft with potential.
West Coast Eagles:
- Liam Baker and Jake Waterman are key forwards, with Jobe Shanahan and Archer Reid pushing for impact.
- Tom McCarthy, Harry Schoenberg, and Deven Robertson are standouts in the midfield.
- Harley Reid is in tremendous nick, primed for a massive campaign.
