A chaotic off-season saw Carlton part ways with its two-time Coleman Medal-winning forward and bring in five players from other clubs as the club seeks a September return.
The 2025 season itself was one of disappointment, falling out of the top eight and looking some way from contending for a flag just two years after reaching a preliminary final.
Where they stand in 2026 will be fascinating, with the departure of Charlie Curnow openinga gaping void in Michael Voss' front third.
While the Blues didn't find a key forward replacement, they did sign Swans gun Will Hayward, who headlines a quintet of fresh faces on the list.
Carlton will also have 2024 Pick 3 selection Jagga Smith at their disposal after his maiden season in navy blue was over before it could begin, having gone down with an ACL injury last pre-season.
With plenty of personnel change and a number of senior Blues players needing to show their worth this year, we take a look at Carlton's best 23 for 2026.
Midfielders
Carlton's midfield pack should only be stronger this year, with the Blues' star-studded engine room ensemble adding in Jagga Smith following his extended spell on the sidelines.
Touted as a ready-made draftee 12 months ago, the bona fide ball magnet should be raring to go with another pre-season under his belt.
He'll add an edge to an already proven midfield unit that consists of two-time Brownlow Medal winner Patrick Cripps, Sam Walsh, George Hewett and Adam Cerra.
The main concern is the durability of that group, with Cerra and Walsh having a history of injury battles, while Smith is coming off a year out of action.
That top line will have support from youngster Cooper Lord and returning wingman Matt Cottrell, while new recruits Chesser, Hayward, Forent and Ben Ainsworth will add layers to the group.
The ruck situation is a watch, with Carlton having lost Tom De Koning to St Kilda over the off-season. It's assumed Marc Pittonet slots into the first-string job, but don't be surprised if Liam Reidy is giving him some competition from early into the year after crossing from Fremantle.
Carlton may call on a two-ruck tandem and alleviate Harry McKay from the supporting role, with youngster Hudson O'Keeffe in the frame to split his time between the middle and forward thirds.
