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...
Paddy Dow
The former Pick 3 sat out the entire 2025 campaign due to injury, but his time at AFL level is dwindling.
Paddy Dow left Carlton for more opportunities at St Kilda, but has been let down by his body, playing 83 games over eight years.
He successfully secured a contract for 2026, but faces a critical challenge of impressing in a short space of time.
Sam Flanders' inclusion in the midfield, coupled with Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera's likely full-time role on-ball, puts more of a squeeze on vacancies.
That doesn't mention the likes of Max Hall, Mattaes Phillipou, Darcy Wilson and Jack Macrae.
The Saints have proven in recent years to be more cut-throat in their list management, leaving Dow to battle it out for a spot at the club.
