Adelaide had a quieter off-season compared to recent years gone by, with Matthew Nicks looking to refine his squad rather than bolster it off the back of a minor premiership-winning 2025 campaign.
The Crows' sole trade period play saw them acquire seven-gamer Finnbar Maley from North Melbourne before two-time premiership Lion Callum Ah Chee walked to West Lakes via the Pre-Season Draft.
The draft saw the South Australian club further add to its attacking options with two target forwards, which would prove to be its only two selections of the talent intake.
With a number of players set to enter their prime and other Crows keen to break into the best 23, we take a look at Adelaide's best lineup for 2026.
Midfielders
A star-studded midfield on paper, but the Crows couldn't capitalise on their lineup of ball winners to end 2025.
Captain Jordan Dawson will again be the main man in the middle and will seek greater support around him at the coalface.
Izak Rankine might be the club's most damaging midfield, and should only increase his exposure in the engine room this year. The same can be said for Josh Rachele, who has continued to build his case as a starting onballer.
Pure midfielder Jake Soligo started 2025 strong but faded in the second half, with the youngster now wanting to see greater consistency throughout his fifth year with the club.
James Peatling proved to be an astute trade recruit over 12 months ago and will place some pressure on someone like Soligo to perform, while second-year midfielder Sid Draper is another looking to break into that top line.
The wings seem pretty set, with utility Dan Curtin shining in that new role last year in his pairing alongside Isaac Cumming, with Milera and Hinge others to consider on the flanks.
After 19 games in 2025, Sam Berry could be on the periphery of the best 23, joining the likes of Lachie Sholl and Billy Dowling in needing to get the new season started on the right foot.
The ruck reins will likely be resumed by Reilly O'Brien, but expect Lachie McAndrew to build his case for a senior call-up after being named in the SANFL Team of the Year as a dominant big man at the level.
Despite the fifth interchange option coming into play this year, the Crows might not need to name two rucks, with Riley Thilthorpe a reliable pinch-hit option. However, should they want Thilthorpe as a forward full-time, then Maley might be a strong selection consideration.
