The AFL season is just around the corner, and fans are starting to believe that their team can compete for a premiership in 2026.
There are 11 teams with a legitimate chance to overcome the barriers in their way to lift the trophy come September, but only one side can do the honours. So, what may cause these premiership fancies to fall short of the AFL's pinnacle?
Here's one reason your favourite club will win the 2026 AFL premiership, and one reason why they won't...
Western Bulldogs
WHY - Elite level talent on paper
The Bulldogs' midfield stacks up with the best, headlined by Bontempelli, Richards, English and Liberatore, while Treloar, Kennedy, Freijah and Sanders all have their fair share of contributions in the middle.
The forward line is just as exciting with the emergence of Sam Darcy, which will pair nicely with Aaron Naughton, Rhylee West and Cody Weightman when he's healthy.
WHY NOT - Their backline isn't sustainable
With all their star power in the midfield and forward line, the Dogs' backline doesn't stack up as well. Rory Lobb is coming off a good year down back, but was still exposed against stronger opponents. As good as Bailey Dale is, his strength lies in ball movement from the backline, not as a lockdown defender.
Missing out on the likes of Callum Wilkie and Jack Silvagni could sting the Dogs in 2026, as they look to rely on James O'Donnell, Nick Coffield and former Sun Connor Budarick.
Will that be enough to defend against the attacking prowess of the fellow top eight sides? The fact it wasn't in 2025, and the Footscray-based outfit is largely running out with the same unit this year, is a concern.
