The best part about entering new footy season is that it's a fresh slate - every club starts from zero.
Optimism is high as fans relish in the prospect of their club making some form of improvement on last year, whether that's contending for a premiership, returning to September action, or seeing young players blossom into genuine superstars to push a rebuild forward.
However, there are also doubts. Lists have been reshaped, coaches have tweaked their systems, and with those changes comes an uncomfortable question that will refuse to subside until the 2026 season is underway.
So, what is the harsh question pressing at the front of your team's mind? Below is every club's burning question heading into 2026...
Geelong
Does James Worpel immediately improve the Cats' midfield?
The Cats were a mid-tier clearance team in 2025, and in the Grand Final against Brisbane, were found out by a supreme on-ball brigade.
In a bid to improve their list, Hawks free agent James Worpel quickly became a player of interest, and will immediately help ease the pressure on Bailey Smith, Max Holmes and Tom Atkins.
Worpel is a clearance specialist, helping find those with pace to burn on the outside, which Geelong have in spades.
At Hawthorn, the 26-year-old found himself playing second and third fiddle to Jai Newcombe and Will Day, but Chris Scott won't utilise him like that.
Worpel and Atkins will work in tandem, grinding down opponents that will complement the running capacity of Smith and Holmes.
The quartet will run the midfield show at Kardinia Park, with players such as Jack Bowes, Gryan Miers and Jhye Clark to be used sparingly.
