Four of the past five years have seen at least 11 first-time All-Australians named in the respective sides, leading to an average of 10.6 newly-tailored blazers each season since 2021.

Half of last year's lineup were first-time All-Australians, equal to the 2021 crop, while 2022 and 2023 managed a dozen fresh faces, compared to the lowly seven in 2024. 

Heading toward the 2026 season, we've looked at EIGHT potential first-time All-Australians...

Will Ashcroft

With two Norm Smith Medals to his name, Ashcroft already has quite a decorated cabinet after just three years in the system.

The Lions will again contend in 2026, and Ashcroft is expected to potentially take the mantle as Chris Fagan's No.1 midfielder, if he isn't already.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - SEPTEMBER 20: Will Ashcroft of the Lions celebrates a goal during the AFL First Preliminary Final match between the Collingwood Magpies and the Brisbane Lions at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on September 20, 2025 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - SEPTEMBER 20: Will Ashcroft of the Lions celebrates a goal during the AFL First Preliminary Final match between the Collingwood Magpies and the Brisbane Lions at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on September 20, 2025 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

With another pre-season under his belt, and the chance to steer Brisbane to a third successive premiership, Ashcroft is about to reach even greater heights.

JOIN THE DISCUSSION