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?
GWS
The Giants' changing of the front-half guard was confirmed on Monday morning, with list boss Jason McCartney telling SEN that Jesse Hogan and Jake Stringer are on the way out.
Club legends Toby Greene and Stephen Coniglio could yet join them, but are being afforded a longer runway to a decision, such has been the quality of their service.
There's cover up front, with Aaron Cadman and Max Gruzewski displaying their wares when given greater opportunity this season.
Quite simply, the strength and conditioning arm of the club needs to step up.
Poor luck certainly plays a role in the injury crisis that befell the club in 2026, but the unavailability of the club's very best players (Tom Green, Finn Callaghan, Brent Daniels, Darcy Jones, Phoenix Gothard, Josh Kelly, Jack Buckley et al.) crippled Adam Kingsley's side's ability to remain competitive.
Overhauling personnel, or the program, or both, so that a list of similar length is compiled next season must be the club's biggest focus.
