With some pundits predicting a winless season for the Tigers in 2025, a five-win campaign was considered a success given the youthful state of their list.
After a huge draft haul in 2024 with a record six first-round picks, the Tigers added another two first-rounders in 2025 in Sam Cumming (Pick 7) and Sam Grlj (Pick 8).
Following their golden era, which spanned from 2017 to 2020, the Tigers will aim to continue building their next premiership side in 2026. This is what their best 23 in 2026 might look like...
Midfielders
Tim Taranto remains the Tigers' prime mover in the midfield after claiming the 2025 best and fairest in a difficult season. His ability to win contested footy and hit the scoreboard makes him Richmond's most influential midfielder.
Dion Prestia remains a crucial figure when fit. The premiership midfielder has battled injury in recent seasons, but at his best still brings class and experience. Jacob Hopper continues to provide the midfield with a tough, uncompromising edge, excelling in the contest and at clearance.
Jack Ross enjoyed a career-best campaign in 2025 and has earned greater trust from Adem Yze on the inside, emerging as a reliable midfield option. Josh Smillie is yet to make his AFL debut due to injury, but his size and athleticism make him one of the club's most exciting midfield prospects.
James Trezise offers flexibility as both a wingman and rebounding defender, with his neat left foot and running capacity proving effective. Hugo Ralphsmith remains on the fringe and will be eager to cement a permanent wing role in 2026, while draftee Sam Grlj could also feature on the outside for the Tigers with his speed and running power.
Youngster Kane McAuliffe, who endured limited opportunity in 2025, will look to build on his 14 games as a powerful inside presence. Patrick Retschko arrives from Geelong as a hard-running utility, while Tyler Sonsie's talent is obvious, but he must deliver greater consistency at AFL level to lock down a spot.
Toby Nankervis continues to lead the group as captain and first-choice ruck. His physicality and stoppage work remain crucial to Richmond's midfield, while Samson Ryan and category B rookie Oliver Hayes-Brown provide ruck depth, with the latter unlikely to feature unless injury strikes.
