Pre-season training is well underway as AFL clubs begin their preparations for 2026.
As is the case every year, there are a number of clubs that surge up the ladder as their list improves and their players mature. On the other hand, ageing lists and player turnover see other clubs regress.
We look at three clubs expected to rise, and three that may fall in 2026.
Slider: Carlton
The departure of two-time Coleman medallist Charlie Curnow could prove too much for the Blues to overcome in 2026. Losing a 28-year-old generational key forward would prove a difficult task for any club to overcome.
Curnow, the focal point of Carlton's front half and their most dangerous scoring option, had an unmatched ability to stretch defences and kick big hauls of goals. In combination with Harry McKay, the pair created an unpredictability going inside 50 that caused headaches for opposition defenders. His departure makes the Blues far more predictable going inside 50 with McKay the only target.
Furthermore, the loss of free agent Tom De Koning to the Saints creates another hole for Michael Voss. De Koning's ability in the air and mobility on the ground were rare for a ruckman, essentially providing the Blues with an extra midfielder. His departure strips Carlton of flexibility and creates further strain on their already thin key-position depth.
Losing two important key position pillars in one off-season could prove far too much for the Blues to overcome, resulting in a slide down the ladder in 2026.
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