In the first season of a young AFL career, many players take some time to adjust to the physicality and skill gap between junior football and the elite competition.
Every year, there are players who take leaps in their second season. Some go from fringe best 23 players in their first year to mainstays in their respective lines, while others go from elite first-year talents to some of the very best in the competition.
There are many potential second-year talents who could take leaps in 2026. We look through the five players most likely to take a sizeable second-year leap next season.
Alixzander Tauru
It took until Round 15 for 'The Flying Viking' to make his much-anticipated debut for St Kilda last season, however, once he did, it was evident why he was selected top 10 in the 2024 draft.
In just his second game of the season against Fremantle, Tauru recorded 14 spoils, placing him third amongst all players for most spoils in a single game for 2025.
Across 10 games, Tauru posted averages of 9.0 disposals, 5.6 spoils and 1.3 intercept marks per match.
Although a very raw talent, Tauru's athleticism and comfortability in the air make him a vital player in the Saints' back six as a developing interceptor, as well as a third defender to spoil marking contests.
