Melbourne has been the indisputable surprise packet of 2026.
Its win over Hawthorn has lifted the club to fifth on the ladder with a 7-3 record, with their edginess on and off the field yielding exciting results.
Victories over top six sides Hawthorn, Brisbane and Gold Coast have franked their credentials as a team to be taken seriously in 2026.
Leadership change has liberated several players to perform above expectation, which has made the Dees a tough opponent once more and fun team to watch.
5Jacob van Rooyen
After a strong first two seasons at the grade, van Rooyen plateaued in 2025, but two key factors have unlocked great improvement in 2026: Brody Mihocek's arrival and Melbourne's new game-style.
The arrival of a five-time club leading goal kicker has shifted attention away from van Rooyen; at 193cm and still less seasoned than most clubs' primary defenders, Mihocek's presence has allowed him more freedom to play his natural game.
Meanwhile, the speed and unpredictability of Melbourne's ball movement has given him more looks in one-on-one contests where his forward craft has shone through.
