The Australian Football League (AFL) is gearing up for its 2026 season, and the pressure is on for coaches to make crucial selection decisions. As the competition heats up, we take a closer look at some of the key dilemmas facing coaches and the potential implications for their teams.
Brisbane's Four-Fold Selection Dilemma
Brisbane has been thrown several selection curveballs just one week into its pursuit of a third-straight premiership. The Lions' coaching staff must decide on the best combination of players to take on the challenges ahead. With a strong squad, the focus is on fine-tuning the starting lineup and managing player fatigue.
Carlton's Fitness Tests and Richmond's Veteran Defender
At Princes Park, Carlton is set to undergo fitness tests to determine the strength of its side. Meanwhile, Richmond is closely monitoring the recovery of veteran defender Nick Vlastuin, who is a test ahead of the Tigers' season opener against the Blues. The club is also assessing the progress of Dion Prestia, who is at least a week away due to a hamstring injury.
Essendon's Injury Concerns and Hawthorn's Midfield Boost
Essendon faces an uphill battle as it deals with a long list of injuries. Nick Bryan and Will Setterfield are still on the sidelines, while Jordan Ridley is a month away from returning. The Bombers' small forward Isaac Kako is also in doubt for the upcoming game. On the other hand, Hawthorn's midfield is set to receive a boost with the return of Cam Mackenzie from concussion.
Bulldogs' Concussion Protocols and Giants' Impressive Win
The Western Bulldogs had to deal with concussion protocols for Artie Jones after a wayward elbow from Brisbane co-captain Harris Andrews. Meanwhile, the Greater Western Sydney Giants delivered an absolutely stunning win, silencing critics who had written them off due to February's injury crisis. The Giants' coach, Adam Kingsley, is unlikely to make many changes to his 23-man side.
Geelong's Injury Cloud and Fremantle's Unbeaten Record
Geelong is facing an injury cloud with Jeremy Cameron and captain Patrick Dangerfield still on the sidelines. The Cats are hoping to put their recent loss behind them and focus on a potent Fremantle outfit. The Dockers, meanwhile, are the only club heading into Opening Round without an official injury list, despite having a few players in the medical room.
Sydney's Dominance and Brisbane's Defensive Concerns
Sydney is expected to dominate Brisbane in their upcoming game. The Swans' coach, Dean Cox, has a few options to consider, including the potential inclusion of Angus Sheldrick and Peter Ladhams. Brisbane, on the other hand, could be without four Opening Round starters due to suspensions and injuries.
Collingwood's Tall Defense and Adelaide's Midfield Concerns
Collingwood's defense is set to face a tall test against Adelaide, with Darcy Moore and Jeremy Howe potentially returning. The Crows, however, have a few injuries to monitor, including midfielder James Peatling and defender Mitch Hinge. The Crows' coach, Guy McKenna, must decide on the best combination to take on the Magpies.
North Melbourne's Top Pick and Port Adelaide's Club Debuts
North Melbourne is set to unveil top pick Lachy Dovaston against Port Adelaide, while SSP signing Tom Blamires will also be in the frame. The Kangaroos' coach, Brad Scott, must manage a busy midfield. Port Adelaide, meanwhile, is set to welcome several club debuts, including former Giant Jacob Wehr and old Blue Corey Durdin.
Melbourne's Infections and St Kilda's Concussion Casualty
Melbourne is dealing with an infection to Bayley Fritsch, who required surgery on an infected dog bite. The Demons' coach, Simon Goodwin, must also manage the recovery of emerging midfielder Jai Culley and young forward Luker Kentfield. St Kilda, on the other hand, has suffered a concussion casualty in Rowan Marshall.
Suns' Strong Start and Eagles' Top Draftees
The Gold Coast Suns couldn't have asked for a better start to their 2026 campaign, and their side is only going to get stronger. The Eagles, meanwhile, are set to welcome top draftees Willem Duursma and Cooper Duff-Tytler to the AFL, along with Josh Lindsay, who had a strong pre-season performance.
