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.
5Brisbane
The Ashcroft brothers, Will and Levi, headline the Lions group of under-22s, already boasting three premierships between them. Will is a two-time Norm Smith Medallist, while Levi played every game in his debut season. Together, they look set to form a formidable midfield partnership for Brisbane for many years to come.
Up forward, Logan Morris and Ty Gallop further strengthen the Lions' next generation. Morris, already a two-time premiership player, appears destined to become a genuine star key forward, boasting strong hands and strong goal sense. Gallop made an immediate impact in his first season, showing physicality, competitiveness and strong overhead ability to become a premiership player in his first season.
Completing the group is Jaspa Fletcher, who has emerged as an influential half-back with elite foot skills. His performance on grand final day in 2025 underlined his importance to Brisbane's ball movement, while his long-term projection points toward a future midfield role alongside the Ashcroft's.
Players 22 and under: Will Ashcroft, Tai Hayes, Shadeau Brain, Jaspa Fletcher, Zane Zakostelsky, Will McLachlan, Reece Torrent, Luke Lloyd, Logan Morris, Ty Gallop, Sam Marshall, Levi Ashcroft, Koby Evans, Dan Annable, Cody Curtin, Ben Murphy
