Season 2026 could be a year of reckoning for seven AFL coaches.
Whether it be pushing for premiership success, finals contention or improving on the year before, it could be argued that a critical juncture has been reached.
Western Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge is perpetually in the coaches under pressure column, while time is running out for Alastair Clarkson at North Melbourne.
Fremantle enjoyed a return to finals, but with their list, expectations will deem them ready for a maiden flag.
But leading one of the Victorian powerhouse clubs comes with its own stress, and nowhere to hide.
Here are SEVEN coaches that will feel the heat leading into the 2026 season (in no particular order)...
3Craig McRae (Collingwood)
Contracted until the end of 2026
The Collingwood premiership coach faces a different kind of pressure from his counterparts, given he tasted success only three seasons ago.
The Pies have been very clear on their intention to consistently contend, and with that, have kept a host of key veterans for the 2026 season.
It has been widely documented that the lack of youth (aside from Nick Daicos) emerging as handy AFL players from the KGM Centre is a concern.
The aggressive trade and free agency in years gone by have handicapped the club's ability to be active in the 2025 player exchange space, as well as leaving them with a weak hand come draft night.
Collingwood is seemingly heading for a cliff, and a failed season (anything less than a preliminary final appearance) would be catastrophic for the Victorian powerhouse.
McRae also enters the season in a contract year.
