Get ready for an exciting AFL season in 2026! It's that time of the year when every club starts with a clean slate, and the possibilities are endless. Fans across the league are buzzing with anticipation, hoping their team will take that next step towards success. Whether it's contending for the premiership, making a return to the finals, or witnessing the rise of young talents, there's something for everyone to look forward to. Even the clubs that have recently tasted victory or endured a challenging season have reasons to be optimistic. So, let's dive into what your favorite AFL club can be excited about as we enter the new year.
Adelaide Crows: The Rise of Sid Draper
The Adelaide Crows have a promising prospect in Sid Draper, who was selected fourth overall in the 2024 National Draft. Crows fans have been eagerly anticipating Draper's breakthrough at the AFL level, but his path has been a bit rocky so far. In his debut season, Draper spent most of his time as a starting substitute, appearing in only six games and making just four starts in the best 22. Despite this, Draper's talent shone through at the SANFL level, where he averaged an impressive number of disposals per game, second only to the league's top young players. He also led the reserves in score involvements per game, showcasing his ability to impact the game.
However, here's where it gets interesting. The Crows' midfield depth took a hit during the trade period, creating an opportunity for Draper to establish himself as a regular starter in 2026. If he puts in a strong pre-season, there's a real chance he could be named in the Crows' starting lineup for Round 1. Imagine that! A young gun like Draper, with his skills and potential, getting the chance to shine from the get-go. It's an exciting prospect for Crows fans and a story that could spark some debate among AFL enthusiasts.
And this is the part most people miss: Draper's journey so far is a perfect example of how AFL careers can take unexpected turns. It's a reminder that every player's path is unique, and sometimes, it's the challenges and setbacks that shape a player's growth. So, will Draper seize this opportunity and become a household name in AFL circles? Only time will tell. But one thing's for sure: the Crows and their fans have every reason to be excited about the potential impact Draper could have on their team's future.
