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.

2Charlie Curnow

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 23: Charlie Curnow of the Swans celebrates after scoring a goal during the round seven AFL match between Western Bulldogs and Sydney Swans at Marvel Stadium, on April 23, 2026, in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images)
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 23: Charlie Curnow of the Swans celebrates after scoring a goal during the round seven AFL match between Western Bulldogs and Sydney Swans at Marvel Stadium, on April 23, 2026, in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images)

A now three-time Coleman Medal winner and arguably the best recruit of the off-season, Curnow has exceeded expectations coming in with a stellar 69-goal season.

Though the spearhead has never kicked two goals in a final before, and with a losing record at that, the question remains whether or not he can step up in the scoring when Sydney needs him most.

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