The 2026 AFL pre-season is here, offering the first real glimpses into how clubs will address 2025's shortcomings.

While there's no premiership points available, a strong showing can build momentum into the 2026 campaign, and demonstrate what is potentially possible once the home-and-away season gets underway.

So, here's what your favourite AFL club must show in their two pre-season fixtures this month...

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Hawthorn

The midfield solution

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - SEPTEMBER 06: Connor Macdonald of the Hawks celebrates a goal during the AFL Elimination Final match between Greater Western Sydney Giants and Hawthorn Hawks at ENGIE Stadium on September 06, 2025 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Matt King/AFL Photos/via Getty Images)
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - SEPTEMBER 06: Connor Macdonald of the Hawks celebrates a goal during the AFL Elimination Final match between Greater Western Sydney Giants and Hawthorn Hawks at ENGIE Stadium on September 06, 2025 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Matt King/AFL Photos/via Getty Images)

Hawthorn will understandably not want to show their full hand in the pre-season, but how they initially manage the absence of Will Day, plus the loss of James Worpel, will be a point of intrigue.

Senior coach Sam Mitchell has addressed that while Connor Macdonald has spent the bulk of pre-season in the engine room, it's more likely he'll resume his position as a lively forward come Round 1, though the idea of him floating through there at times remains a possibility.

As does increased centre bounce opportunities for Nick Watson, who has demonstrated an ability to generate attacking pressure when given elevated time in the middle.

There will be a lot riding on the development of youngsters Cameron Mackenzie and Josh Ward too. How the Hawks engine room perform as a collective in the pre-season will either give Hawthorn fans considerable optimism or a pessimistic outlook on the year ahead.

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