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.
4. Carlton
Defenders: Lachlan Cowan, Jacob Weitering, Harry Dean, Harry O'Farrell, Billy Wilson, Lachie Whitfield, Oliver Florent, Nic Newman, Nick Haynes, Rob Monahan, Wade Derksen
There is so much to like about the Blues in 2027, and their defence is particularly eye-catching.
The odd-couple duo of the effervescent Harry Dean and the quiet mannered Jacob Weitering in defence was a standout in year one, and can only be expected to improve.
Veteran Nick Haynes, like most Blues players, found some of his best football in the second half of the season.
Then come the flying halfbacks in recruit Lachie Whitfield, Billy Wilson and Oliver Florent. Carlton has one of the best halfback groups in the league and their dash and ball use out of defence will be a highlight in 2027.
The depth is strong as well with Wade Derksen and Harry O'Farrell waiting in the wings.
Carlton's 2026 numbers are distorted given its polar opposite halves of the season. But all signs point to the club continuing its upward trajectory next year.
