In honour of the NFL season's start and the beginning of the AFL finals, we compiled a cross-code comparison linking each AFL side to their closest NFL counterpart.
These comparisons are based on every metric you can think of; recent success, historic success, club status, current projections, future projections, similar-type players, recent list changes, method of play, and even just general vibes.
Some clubs have shockingly fitting comparisons while others need to be slightly reached for.
Nevertheless, here is our list of who every AFL fan should support this NFL season.
Melbourne Demons
Philadelphia Eagles
Another fitting comparison between two major franchises that have recently established themselves as the two well-oiled machines of their competition.
Both recently experienced miraculous drought-breaking triumphs, with the Eagles' first-ever Super Bowl victory in 2018 and Melbourne's historic 2021 premiership, their first in 57 years.
Since these success stories, both sides have been entrenched as a couple of the best teams in their sport, led by the offensive machine of Jalen Hurts, AJ Brown, Davante Smith and Jason Kelce for Philadelphia, matched by Melbourne's mix of Christian Petracca, Clayton Oliver, Jack Viney and Max Gawn.
Kelce and Gawn in particular have arguments as the best players in their position this century and are easily two of the most beloved athletes of either sport.
