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.
Midfielders
While the engine room has been a weakness for West Coast, their 2026 list looks to have some healthy competition for midfield spots, with nobody guaranteed a gig.
What is assumed is Harley Reid's placement as the main man in the middle, with the West Coast wunderkind tipped for a breakout year in his third season in the top flight.
Elliot Yeo is set to return from a year on the sidelines and could resume his role as a complementary piece to Reid, while Jack Graham was formidable in Yeo's absence as the defensive-minded midfielder.
Tom McCarthy is set for a significant role through the middle after starring in defence to start his short career, with former first-round pick Elijah Hewett one who can add some explosiveness as well.
The aforementioned Brady Hough proved his value as an inside midfield option last year, with the young Eagle potentially contending with Brandon Starcevich for a spot in the middle.
The wing spots are up for grabs, with Ryan Maric one option to feature out wide given his kicking and aerial prowess, while Tyrell Dewar, Josh Lindsay and veteran Tim Kelly could also be usde on the outside.
The Eagles added some experience to their midfield depth over the off-season, signing Deven Roberston, Harry Schoenberg and Finlay Macrae for no cost in the hope they can reach their full potential in the royal blue and gold.
Matthew Flynn should reclaim the first-string ruck role, earning support from Jack Williams and Archer Reid, with Bailey Williams and Harry Barnett to apply some pressure at selection.
