Young talent continues to surge across the AFL, with several clubs now building cores that will shape the competition over the next decade.
Using players aged 22 or under for the 2026 season, we've ranked the top five teams based on the quality and upside of their emerging talent.
4North Melbourne
At the core of Kangaroo's young list is Harry Sheezel and George Wardlaw, two midfielders whose contrasting styles complement each other perfectly. Sheezel provides class, composure and accumulation on the outside, while Wardlaw brings a ferocious, contest-focused game, thriving at stoppage with his physicality and competitiveness.
Finn O'Sullivan and Colby McKercher have followed similar trajectories. Both began their careers as running half-backs, using their speed and ball use to impact games, and are now looking to transition into midfield roles.
Key-position prospects Matt Whitlock and Wil Dawson have also been given a taste of AFL football, with the Roos viewing the pair as long-term prospects capable of playing at either end of the ground as they continue to develop.
Players 22 and under: Robert Hansen Jr, Jacob Konstanty, Harry Sheezel, George Wardlaw, Cooper Harvey, Brayden George, Zane Duursma, Wil Dawson, Taylor Goad, Riley Hardeman, Cooper Trembath, Colby McKercher, River Stevens, Matt Whitlock, Luke Urquhart, Finn O'Sullivan, Lachy Dovaston, Hugo Mikunda, Blake Thredgold
