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.
3Willem Duursma
The number one pick in 2025's draft, Duursma, is set to be a mainstay in the Eagles' side in 2026 and is one of the favourites to take out the Rising Star award in 2026.
Duursma has shown his versatility and ability to play in multiple positions, and will likely line up at half-back, as Tom McCarthy is set to move into the midfield.
The Eagles will continue to get games into their young talent, and Duursma is set to be a key part of the Eagles' future and success in 2026 and beyond.
