The Western Bulldogs finished 2025 with 14 wins and a whopping percentage of over 137 - both of which were records for a non-finals playing side.
On paper, the Dogs boast one of the most complete lists in the competition: a forward line spearheaded by Sam Darcy and Aaron Naughton, a midfield featuring Marcus Bontempelli, Tom Liberatore and Ed Richards, and a backline sparked by the line-breaking Bailey Dale.
Yet, despite being a dangerous side chock-full of star power at the top, the Dogs' depth, defensive capabilities and consistency were a step below the top eight and ultimately saw them miss September despite averaging over 16 goals per game, becoming the first club to achieve that scoring feat since Adelaide in 2016.
So, what should Dogs fans expect from the playing group in 2026? Here's the best 23 that might run out in the tricolours this season…
Forwards
The Bulldogs' forward line is stacked.
They have two players capable of kicking 60-70 goals a season in Aaron Naughton and Sam Darcy, with a dynamic mix of small forwards and connectors going inside 50. Rhylee West is an underrated, workmanlike forward who adds important ferocity and grunt inside 50, while Joel Freijah has only scratched the surface of what he can achieve as a dual role threat half-forward.
The only real question mark for the Dogs in this area of the field is Cody Weightman, given concerns around his health. However, if he gets back to full strength, his crafty crumbing abilities can further dynamise what is already an almost unguardable mix of goalkickers.
In his absence, Sam Davidson, Josh Dolan and Laitham Vandermeer will push for regular selection to the senior side.
