Taking a glance into the 2026 AFL season, we try to predict who will take their game to new levels.
Will it be a rising star of the competition? Or a forgotten face? How about a player who was traded?
In no particular order, here are seven players who have the opportunity to take the next big step over the coming 12 months.
7Mattaes Phillipou
At times in his young career, this young Saint has looked every bit a genuine match-winner. Still just 20 years of age, Phillipou has impressed with his aerial ability, flair in front of the sticks and a hunger to improve.
With a more mature team around him, thanks to an influx of elite talent, less will be expected of Phillipou individually, which may just unlock his best. The Saints rewarded his commitment to 'personal and professional growth' with an extension through till the end of 2028, and Phillipou oozes intangibles that inform the belief that he has the character to reward that good faith with excellence.
