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.
4Zeke Uwland
Arguably rated as the best talent in the 2025 draft, alongside Willem Duursma, Uwland is set to line up on the wing for the Suns in 2026.
The Suns aim to compete in the finals again in 2026, and Uwland could already be a key piece in their success this season.
Uwland looks to be set on an Opening Round debut, but there will be competition for spots in the Suns' stacked side, which may make it tough for Uwland to hold his spot in the best 23.
