With AFL clubs having returned for pre-season training, the countdown for the 2026 season is on.
Coaches begin experimenting with new game plans and younger players begin pushing for spots. Every session counts as players push for Round 1 selection.
But not all players feel the same levels of pressure, with some under far more scrutiny than others. Whether it was a failed trade move, underperformance or stalled development, these are the 10 AFL players with a point to prove in 2026.
4Harry Petty
Petty was in demand at the end of the 2023 season after it appeared he was set to become one of the competition's most reliable swingmen after a strong three-year period. The Crows were reportedly very keen to acquire the services of Petty, however the Demons ruled out any chance of a trade.
In 2024, Petty re-signed with the Demons on a three-year deal. Since then, it appears his development has stalled slightly, with the Demons opting to play him mainly as a forward across 2024 and 2025. He kicked 20 goals from 19 games in 2025, however 13 of them came in five games, revealing a level of inconsistency.
He was a mainstay in Melbourne's back six from 2021 to 2023 and played in the 2021 premiership win. He was also swung forward at times during this period, including a haul of six goals against Richmond in 2023, highlighting his versatility.
After looking like he could take the competition by storm only two years ago, it will be intriguing to see how the Demons use him in 2026.
