The 2026 AFL season is rapidly taking shape, and early match simulations have already offered a compelling glimpse into how new rule changes and team strategies will play out. From adjustments to ruck contests to the potential for expanded benches, and the emergence of exciting young talent, several key themes are emerging as clubs prepare for the season ahead.
Ruck Rule Tweaks and the Five-Bench Revolution
One of the most significant shifts for the upcoming season is the scrapping of the substitute rule, allowing teams to field five players on the bench. This change, coupled with new regulations surrounding ruck contests, is prompting coaches to rethink their strategies around the pivotal ruck position. League officials are aiming to encourage more jumping at the contest, rather than wrestling, and early indications suggest this could favor more athletic rucks.
Several clubs have already begun experimenting with dual-ruck formations in match simulations. Hawthorn, for example, has been closely examining the combination of Lloyd Meek and Ned Reeves, a pairing that hadn’t been seen together in a competitive match for the past two seasons. Assistant coach David Hale remained noncommittal about a permanent pairing, noting the flexibility the new rules provide. “Both of those guys have had a good summer,” Hale said. “I think the centre bounce rule obviously helps ‘Noodle’ (Reeves) in terms of his height… but Meeky’s had a good couple of years as well.”
The Gold Coast Suns are also exploring options with Jarrod Witts and Ned Moyle, while Greater Western Sydney is considering deploying both Kieren Briggs and Nick Madden. Adelaide appears keen on utilizing Toby Murray alongside their primary ruck, potentially freeing up Riley Thilthorpe to focus on a more forward role. As former Crows captain Mark Bickley observed, “They don’t really want him in the ruck – they want him dominating in the front half of the ground.”
Swans Surge: A Team Reborn?
After a disappointing 2025 campaign hampered by injuries and a coaching transition, the Sydney Swans appear poised for a significant rebound. Assistant coach Ben Matthews described the team’s preparation for 2026 as “significantly better” than last year, citing improved player availability and a more cohesive team dynamic. A key element of this resurgence could be a new emphasis on rapid ball movement, drawing comparisons to the “tsunami” style of play employed by the Giants.
The arrival of dual Coleman Medallist Charlie Curnow has added another dimension to the Swans’ attack, and his early chemistry with Isaac Heeney and Logan McDonald is particularly encouraging. Matthews highlighted the work done by forwards coach Jeremy Laidler in fostering synergy between the key forwards. “We’ve done a hell of a lot of drills… and it’s always pleasing when it comes together,” he said.
Exciting Young Talent on Display
The match simulations have also provided a platform for several promising young players to showcase their potential. Carlton’s Jagga Smith, after missing much of the 2025 season due to an ACL injury, impressed with a strong performance against Brisbane, including a long-range goal early in the game. Blues assistant Josh Fraser praised Smith’s “terrific” game and his ability to connect with the midfield.
Richmond’s Sam Lalor, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2022 draft, also made a positive impression, demonstrating clean skills and comfortable possession. Tigers assistant coach Jack Ziebell noted Lalor’s impressive pre-season and his potential to become a key player for the club. “He’s had a really impressive summer,” Ziebell said. “We’re excited to see his ground coverage now.”
North Melbourne’s Reality Check
Not all teams emerged from the match simulations with positive takeaways. North Melbourne suffered a comprehensive 80-point defeat against Melbourne, a result that assistant coach Michael Barlow described as “unflattering and disappointing.” While acknowledging the team’s youth and inexperience, Barlow emphasized the need for improved work rate and consistency. “We’re not a side, at this point in time, that can take mulligans,” he stated.
Looking Ahead
As the AAMI Community Series approaches, these early match simulations have provided valuable insights into the evolving landscape of the AFL. The new rule changes, particularly those impacting the ruck position, are forcing coaches to adapt their strategies, while the emergence of exciting young talent is injecting fresh energy into the competition. The 2026 season promises to be a compelling one, with several teams poised to challenge for premiership contention.
