With coaching changes, star trade moves, controversial calls and ongoing alterations at AFL House, 2025 was a year of headlines.
The next 12 months promise some sizeable stories too, with uncertainty surrounding more AFL coaches, the game's biggest names rising further, year-long trade speculation on stars, and some facing the heat in the aftermath of this year's twists and turns.
So, as we reach the turn of the new year, let's take a look at nine names set to shape the AFL and as certain headline makers for 2026.
9Harley Reid
Although his contract call finally brought an end to the speculation on his future at West Coast in August, expect the rumours to return in 2026.
Reid's two-year deal will take him through to the end of 2028, and while the Eagles can breathe for a moment, they'll be back at the table wanting to secure another extension for their young star in no time.
The same could be said for circling rivals, who were reportedly of the view this year that Reid could have sought a move back to Victoria despite having a year to run on his contract.
But Reid's future aside, the Eagles wunderkind is set to create his own headlines in 2026 as he lets his football do the talking, letting those questioning the mouth-watering offers that were tabled know exactly why he'll be one of the game's best-paid players in the near future.
