Entering any new AFL season comes with a level of pressure and scrutiny, but it can rise to astronomical heights if you're fighting for your career.
Heading into the 2026 campaign, over 300 players have yet to have their futures confirmed. However, the majority of those are more than likely to remain at their current club, seek a new opportunity or hang up the boots.
This leaves a host of players in contract limbo, and their efforts in the new season will determine where they will be next year...
Jamarra Ugle-Hagan
There is arguably no bigger make-or-break name than Gold Coast recruit Jamarra Ugle-Hagan.
The former Western Bulldogs forward spent the entire 2025 season on the sidelines, and found a second chance at the Suns under Damien Hardwick.
Ugle-Hagan signed a one-year deal with a trigger for a second, but we all know if he doesn't reach his requirements, his AFL days could be over.
Gunning for a key forward role alongside Ben King, Jed Walter, Jy Farrar, and Ethan Read, the former Pick 1 will have his work cut out for him.
Alex Davies is another Sun that needs to break through, which has been made incredibly difficult following the acquisition of Christian Petracca.
Davies played eight games in 2025 due to form and suspension, but received plenty of rival interest due to being squeezed out of the senior side.
