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...
Collingwood
Nick Daicos' midfield support
Daicos' 6.2 clearances per game led Collingwood last season, with his closest teammate averaging 4.0 in Darcy Cameron.
But you don't need stats to prove that Daicos typically carries the bulk of the load in the midfield for the Magpies, and while his skillset is certainly elite to have, the repeated efforts can be taxing.
The lack of depth was particularly notable in Collingwood's preliminary final collapse against Brisbane, outclassed in the middle as they lost the clearance count by nine, despite winning nine more first possessions from ruck contests, while also getting dominated on the scoreboard from stoppage - 65-33.
So, who steps up?
Eyes will be on Ned Long, who broke through to become a regular member of the best 22 in 2025, as well as youngster Edward Allen to take on a bigger role as Scott Pendlebury enters a record-breaking 21st season.
