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.
Richmond
Taj Hotton
In the closing stages of 2025, Richmond fans got a taste of Taj Hotton's skillset; a small glimpse into why the club was so keen to draft him. An athletic livewire who makes things happen, his dynamism added a point of difference to Richmond's front half.
He played just seven games at the top level in his debut season, missing the first half of the year with an ACL injury he sustained before being drafted, but he did not look like he missed a beat when he returned. Speed is the name of the modern game, and Hotton has that in spades.
In the closing stages of 2025, Richmond fans got a taste of Taj Hotton's skillset; a small glimpse into why the club was so keen to draft him.
An athletic livewire who makes things happen, his dynamism added a point of difference to Richmond's front half.
You can also read up on the Tigers' 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.
