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...
Elijah Tsatas
Essendon has a trio of talented footballers who need big seasons to revive their careers.
Elijah Tsatas is the big name who has been unable to crack into the senior side consistently, playing 16 games in three years.
Tsatas has dominated VFL level, but Brad Scott has been reluctant to give him an opportunity to match it with the game's best.
He was also targeted by North Melbourne, and might be one to watch at the end of the year.
His teammates, Archie Perkins and Jade Gresham, are also working through their contract situations beyond 2026.
The pair played at least 19 games each last season, but at times were subject to lesser roles or the substitute position.
The Bombers' draft focus and subsequent inclusions will apply pressure to Perkins and Gresham as front-half players, placing a heavy reliance on their output to ensure their futures.
