Despite a one-win 2025 campaign, there are obvious green shoots within West Coast's system as the club continues to develop its young core.
The off-season saw the Eagles add further premiership experience to their list to aid their emerging ranks while also attacking the draft aggressively once more.
The club is still searching for the right balance of youth and experience, with 2026 set to see the second edition of Andrew McQualter's men in action.
With plenty of names to get excited for and several spots in the lineup up for grabs, let's take a look at how West Coast could take shape in 2026.
Defenders
The backline is set to undergo further change following a challenging 2025 season that saw the Perth powerhouse move into the future without incumbent premiership pair Jeremy McGovern and Tom Barrass.
In their place, Harry Edwards looked to help steer the ship from the last line alongside young pair Sandy Brock and Reuben Ginbey, the latter slotting into a makeshift key defensive role.
Ginbey is set to be alleviated by the arrival of Tiger Tylar Young, who will contest with Edwards and Brock for the tall posts down back.
The arrival of Brandon Starcevich will strengthen McQualter's rearguard, however the ex-Lion is said to be keen on midfield action. A similar situation looms for Brady Hough, who is equally damaging on the ball as he is shutting down opposition smalls.
Mid-Season Draft selection Tom McCarthy is another destined for midfield action after impressing off half-back last year, with his move up the field opening the door for No.1 pick Willem Duursma to play a loose role down back.
Veteran pair Liam Baker, Liam Duggan and Tom Cole will bring leadership and a hard edge to the group, while Elliot Yeo could return to defence after a year on the sidelines and plenty of competition for midfield spots.
Fringe Eagles Bo Allan, Rhett Bazzo and Tyrell Dewar are likely some spots back in the pecking order but will make their case for senior selection.
Expect draftee Josh Lindsay to also feature in 2026, with his clean kicking a leading trait.
