Every AFL club's squad for the 2027 season is coming together, so how does each team's back, midfield and forward line stack up with their rivals?
We at Zero Hanger will be going through all 18 clubs analysing and ranking them 1-18 across all three thirds of the ground, starting with the backline.
While the draft, delisted free agent signing period and trial spots remain for clubs to recruit players, the majority of each team's starting 23 are in place.
Focusing on the players at their disposal, their style of football in 2026, and with a look forward to Round 1, 2027, this is how we ranked every club 1-18 for its defence.
6. Collingwood
Defenders: Isaac Quaynor, Brayden Maynard, Josh Daicos, Daniel Houston, Harry Perryman, Billy Frampton, Reef McInnes, Darcy Moore, Jeremy Howe, Liam Puncher
It felt like the Magpies got better the more injuries they picked up in 2026. Such is the mastery by coach Craig McRae, this Collingwood team will never be a poor defensive side while he is at the helm.
The Magpies will be hoping captain Darcy Moore's body can hold together next year as the club pushes for another flag with its pair of star recruits in Lachie Neale and Jesse Hogan.
However, Billy Frampton shone in 2026 and proved he can be a leader in a beautiful Collingwood defensive system.
The Pies will also be hoping Brayden Maynard can get a clean run it, while the club has plenty of halfback options in Dan Houston, Josh Daicos and Harry Perryman.
The question will always remain as to whether the old and injury-battling bodies of Moore and Jeremy Howe, who are both so important to the club's flag hopes, can cope with a long football season.
