When it comes to finals footy, there is really no better way, in terms of scale, to measure a player's worth in what they can bring to the field when the win matters the most.

Some players are looking to change the narrative of the finals, while others start their mark on the competition for seasons to come.

Note that these players are being ranked in terms of who is under the most pressure and expectations to succeed in the finals along with their club, not just individual rankings.

Here's the ten players I believe will have to prove the most to themselves and their fan base ahead of the 2026 AFL Finals Series.

8Caleb Serong

PERTH, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 30: Caleb Serong of the Dockers looks to handball during the round three AFL match between West Coast Eagles and Fremantle Dockers at Optus Stadium, on March 30, 2025, in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Paul Kane/Getty Images)
PERTH, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 30: Caleb Serong of the Dockers looks to handball during the round three AFL match between West Coast Eagles and Fremantle Dockers at Optus Stadium, on March 30, 2025, in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Paul Kane/Getty Images)

It's been Serong's worst season statistically in five seasons, and with the pressure to succeed never more prominent than now for the Dockers, it's time for one of the club's best to stand tall when it matters the most.

With a lot of Freo's best still having very little finals experience, Serong's presence could prove to be a determining factor in some big games coming up.

JOIN THE DISCUSSION