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)...
7Michael Voss (Carlton)
Contracted until the end of 2026
Somehow, Voss survived the major coaching cull at Carlton under the new direction of CEO Graham Wright.
The Blues farewelled a host of staff and players, signalling a new era.
But that won't change the fact that they expect Voss to perform. As mentioned, the Carlton coach survived Wright's axe and enters 2026 with no confirmed future beyond.
The Blues struggled to get their season going, with injuries to key personnel and a game plan that was found out by rival clubs.
But an 11th-placed finish in 2025 still provides hope that with new instruction and fresh faces, a spike can occur.
If not, then Voss could be shown the door.
