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.
Sydney
Joel Amartey
Injury cruelly ended Joel Amartey's 2025 campaign at eight games, but he flashed the potential to be the key pillar in Sydney's forward line moving forward.
A year after kicking 43 goals, Amartey took 3.8 shots at goal per game in his eight appearances in 2025, on pace to break that goal tally.
However, with the arrival of Charlie Curnow, the 26-year-old's role may undergo a major change.
You can also read up on the Swans' 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.
