Many pundits are bullish on the Suns' chances in 2026. And rightly so.
After accumulating a plethora of first-round draft talent since their inception in 2011, the Suns have finally found the right mix between young talent and maturity.
An aggressive trade strategy in recent seasons, which has brought in players such as Christian Petracca, John Noble and Daniel Rioli, has further accelerated their rise.
With a dynamic midfield, speed out of the back half and established key position players, there is no glaring weakness, and you would think the Suns are poised to contend for their first ever flag in 2026.
Midfielders
Gold Coast's midfield is clearly the strongest area of the ground. Their centre-bounce quartet of Noah Anderson, Christian Petracca, Matt Rowell and Jarrod Witts shapes as one of the most damaging in the competition.
Brownlow medallist Rowell is a contested ball-winning beast, while 2025 Coaches Association MVP Anderson hurts the opposition on the inside and out. Petracca's arrival adds another explosive dimension at stoppage, while Witts will continue to provide elite service to his star-studded midfield.
Veteran Touk Miller has been a superb midfielder for the Suns since being drafted in 2014, though he may spend more time forward with Petracca now in the mix.
Alex Davies emerged late in the 2025 season as a genuine midfielder, highlighted by a 30-disposal, 10-tackle performance in Round 20. Interesting as to whether he fits in the best 23.
On the outside, Lachie Weller offers class and drive when fit after an injury-interrupted past few seasons. Weller will likely spend time on the wing alongside draftee Zeke Uwland, who is highly skilled and has strong running capacity. Sam Clohesy adds further depth on the wing.
Young ruck Ned Moyle continues to impress as one of the competition's brightest developing big men. Has stepped up admirably in the absence of Witts when required.
