Each AFL team has at least one player ready for a breakout year or is looking to prove their value in the top flight, while others returning from a long injury layoff might be a catalyst in the upcoming campaign.
There's always increased excitement or expectation mounted on players who looked to be a big part of the season to come, even if they aren't among the top line of stars in their squad.
Here we look at your club's 'one to watch' heading into the 2026 AFL season.
North Melbourne
Nick Larkey
Jy Simpkin's successor as captain, Nick Larkey will be looking to utilise his leadership skills to guide North Melbourne up the ladder in 2026.
The delivery to Larkey was down in 2025, seeing him engage in 3.1 offensive one-on-ones per game and taking 3.6 shots at goal per match.
Those are both reductions from his career-best 71-goal campaign from 2023, where he was duelling in 4.0 offensive one-on-ones and taking 4.3 shots at goal per game.
You can also read up on the Kangaroos' star player, the name under pressure, 2026 expectations, squad list, fixtures, stats, recruitment report, matches to watch, best 23, player profiles and more for FREE with our 2026 Season Guide.
