Many North Melbourne fans would agree that the Kangaroos have lacked a bit of edge in their last few seasons.
While the talent on the list is building strongly with each passing year, the lack of fire and heart in their on-field performances has been evident, losing six games by 50-plus points in 2025; only three fewer than the one-win Eagles.
However, a lack of player movement in the off-season suggests the club believes they have the cattle to challenge the competition. So, what will spark life into a club becoming more and more desolate with hope of improvement?
With that in mind, let's take a look at what North Melbourne's best 23 might look like in 2026...
Midfielders
Highly touted draftees Harry Sheezel and George Wardlaw have developed a phenomenal inside and outside pairing, which will look to reach new heights in 2026.
Expect Finn O'Sullivan to insert himself into the starting centre square more often after a strong second half of last season, while the star trio of Luke Davies-Uniacke, Jy Simpkin and Luke Parker present different auxiliary strengths that will be impossible to drop for senior coach Alastair Clarkson.
Arguably the biggest factor in the engine room at Arden Street, however, is Tristan Xerri. The 26-year-old led the Kangaroos in clearances, tackles and contested possessions and tapped the fourth-most hitouts to advantage in the league (10.3 per game).
2026 may finally be the year he succeeds Max Gawn for recognition as the league's top ruck, especially if North Melbourne continue to put together their stellar clearance work.
