The AFL Wildcard Round and finals series are officially upon us for 2026, with the eight teams missing out now turning their attention to free agency, contracts, the draft and selection calls ahead of next year.
Their home and away responsibilities have come to an end, but the disappointed decision-makers at the eight clubs condemned to watching September from the sidelines are about to earn their keep.
Whether priority 1A is transitioning to a new coach, deciding how best to spend Pick 1 at the upcoming National Draft (or both, if you're Essendon), or attempting to land a big free agency fish, months of planning for the upcoming free agency, trade and drafting periods are about to bear fruit.
So just what is on the agenda for your club?
Essendon
The Bombers' announcement of Mark McVeigh as their next senior coach led the nightly news on Monday.
McVeigh's successful transition into the role is paramount to the long-term health of this fallen powerhouse, as is nailing the use of their recently acquired first overall pick at the upcoming National Draft.
The Bombers, since moving on from Adrian Dodoro and handing the list management reins to Matt Rosa, have excelled on draft night, with their haul of Sullivan Robey, Dyson Sharp and Jacob Farrow from last year's intake showing promise in their first season at the level.
The Bombers may have missed a trick in refusing to grant Zach Merrett's trade request last season, and thus, may not yield as much in return should they do as expected and change their tune this season.
Assuming they receive at least one first-round selection from Hawthorn, their hand at the draft table is strong, and maximising it will hopefully give long-suffering Bombers faithful more reason for optimism moving forward.
