The 2026 season is about to kick off, and a new crop of draftees is set to have an impact on the league and battle it out for the 2026 Rising Star award.
Also, a group of overage talents are set to take a jump in their second season at AFL level, making this year's Rising Star award a close and competitive race.
Here's a refresh on the criteria to be eligible for the award.
- Players must be under the age of 21 as of January 1, 2026.
- Players can only have played 10 AFL games or fewer in previous seasons.
- Players must not be suspended at AFL or state league level during the season.
Last year, first-year player Murphy Reid took home the award, beating out Dan Curtin and Levi Ashcroft in a close race that was debated all season long.
In a stacked crop of talent, this year's race is anyone's for the taking. Here is Zero Hanger's verdict on the 10 favourites for this year's Rising Star award.
1Jagga Smith
The Blues have been waiting for the start of Jagga Smith's AFL career, after he tore his ACL in last year's preseason.
Touted as a ready-made midfielder at last year's draft, Smith will slot right into the Blues' engine room, alongside Patrick Cripps and Sam Walsh.
The ball magnet is set for a crucial role in the Blues' midfield, and will look to add another layer to Michael Voss' side with his ball-winning ability.
He would have been a clear favourite for the award last season, and this season, he is the clear frontrunner to win the award in 2026.
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