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. We started with the backline last week, and now it is time to rank the forwards.
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 attack.
North Melbourne
Forwards: Nick Larkey, Lachy Dovaston, Paul Curtis, Charlie Spargo, Cooper Trembath, Jack Darling, Matt Whitlock, Jacob Konstanty, Zac Banch, Oliver Griffin, River Stevens, Cameron Zurhaar
Expect North Melbourne to soar further up this list in 2027. Under a new coach who has been brought in to play the modern attacking style of game, the Roos will look to utilise their most dangerous assets, which are their forward half players.
Captain Nick Larkey had a quieter year than usual, but now he has recruited Nick Blakey, flying off half-back and delivering silver service to the Roos spearhead.
Paul Curtis is a star, and he will continue to grow as his teammates improve, while Lachy Dovaston has shown glimpses of being a threatening small forward.
Cameron Zurhaar has developed into a decent swingman, but should be left forward where he plays his best.
The reason for bringing in someone like a Samson Ryan is to keep the rising star that is Cooper Trembath out of the ruck and in the forward line.
The effect of Blakey's inclusion into this team can't be overstated in how much he will help the Roos' counterattacking play, especially under the always perfect conditions at Marvel Stadium.
As ever with North Melbourne, the club is not there yet to rank the Roos higher on the list. But that could all change with a good draw to start the season and some free-flowing football.
