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.
8Blake Acres
After enjoying some career-best football at the Blues in 2023 and 2024 after crossing from Fremantle, it was a down year for the wingman.
Statistically, it was Acres' worst year since arriving at Carlton. Acres' output dipped in disposals, marks and metres gained, eventually resulting in coach Michael Voss sending him back to the VFL for the Round 18 clash with Brisbane. He was recalled in Round 20.
Last year he signed a two-year extension, seeing him remain a Blue until the end of 2027. With Acres turning 31 next season and the current state of the list, does he fit in Voss' future plans? Or does the Blues coach turn to youth through the likes of Ollie Hollands, Jagga Smith, Campbell Chesser and Cooper Lord?
