The All-Australian team is a highly anticipated annual event in the Australian Football League (AFL), recognizing the top players of the season. This year, the team is shaping up to be a fascinating mix of established stars and emerging talents. Here's a deep dive into the early 2026 All-Australian team, with a focus on the players who are making their mark and those who are still in the running.
Defenders
The backline is a strong suit for this team, with a mix of reliable tall stoppers and agile ball-users. James Sicily and Harris Andrews are two of the most consistent key defenders, with Sicily sitting third and Andrews leading the pack. Nick Blakey, a rebounding specialist, is the highest-rated defender overall, showcasing his ability to play taller and be accountable. Jack Sinclair and Tom McCartin are the designated ball-users, with Sinclair ranking highly for retained metres gained.
Tom McCartin, in particular, is a standout performer, earning a spot at centre-half-back despite a recent concussion. His work rate and defensive prowess are impressive, averaging 20.1 disposals and 7.4 marks per game. Bailey Dale, another agile defender, ranks second in the league for retained metres gained, showcasing his dash and dare approach.
Midfielders
The midfield is a competitive space, with a few players standing out for their dual threats and exceptional ball use. Bailey Smith, a territory player, leads the way in metres gained, showcasing his impeccable work rate. Isaac Heeney, a dual threat, is on fire this year, averaging 2.0 goals per game and leading the competition in player rating. Jordan Dawson, a courageous player, is performing admirably despite a challenging year personally.
Forwards
The forwards are a mix of power and versatility. Shai Bolton, Josh Treacy, and Nick Watson form a formidable trio, with Treacy leading the way in player rating and marks per game. Kysaiah Pickett, Jeremy Cameron, and Jack Gunston are also making their mark, with Gunston, a 35-year-old, leading the competition in marks inside-50 and score involvements.
Followers
The followers are a mix of established stars and rising talents. Max Gawn, the game's number one ruckman, is a force to be reckoned with, leading the competition in player rating. Marcus Bontempelli and Zak Butters, a daunting combination, are also in the running, with Bontempelli ranking second in player rating and Butters fourth. They are on track to have impressive coaches' votes tallies.
Interchange
The interchange players bring speed and versatility to the team. Luke Jackson, Nick Daicos, Christian Petracca, Chad Warner, and Lachie Ash are all in the running, with Daicos, despite some questionable disposal, leading the competition in coaches' votes. Jackson, a nimble big man, is a key player for Fremantle, while Petracca and Warner are dual threats, and Ash is a master of rebound.
Honorable Mentions
Several players are also in the running for a spot on the team, including Brodie Grundy, Clayton Oliver, Jai Newcombe, Ed Richards, Callum Wilkie, Wayne Milera, Bodhi Uwland, and Justin McInerney. These players have all had impressive seasons, but the team has to make some tough choices.
In conclusion, the early 2026 All-Australian team is a fascinating mix of established stars and emerging talents. The competition is fierce, and the final team will be a reflection of the league's best players. As the season progresses, the picture will become clearer, and the debate will continue to heat up.
