The AFL pre-season is buzzing with exciting developments, and some players are already making headlines. Here's a deep dive into the latest track watch:
Eagles' Youngsters Impress, But Is It Sustainable?
The West Coast Eagles have a couple of young guns turning heads, quite literally. Clay Hall, an up-and-coming talent, is in awe of mid-season recruit Tom McCarthy's rapid progress. McCarthy, a defensive star last year, is now thriving as a midfielder, showcasing his versatility and earning the 'freak' label from Hall. But Hall attributes this success to McCarthy's relentless hard work, a testament to his dedication.
Collingwood's De Goey Shakes Off Setbacks, But Can He Stay Healthy?
Collingwood's Jordan De Goey is back with a bang, dominating in drills and leaving his injury-plagued 2025 season behind. His trademark explosiveness is a welcome sight for the Magpies, who struggled without him last year. However, the real test is whether De Goey can maintain his fitness throughout the season, as his absence puts immense pressure on Nick Daicos and Scott Pendlebury.
Giants' Green Welcomes Oliver, But Will Their Styles Clash?
Tom Green, the Giants' best and fairest winner, is thrilled to have Clayton Oliver on board. Oliver, a midfield powerhouse, joins Green to form a formidable duo. While they have worked together previously, the question remains: will their similar styles complement or complicate the team's dynamics? Green believes it's the former, but only time will tell if they can strike the perfect balance.
Lions' Defensive Depth Tested After Starcevich's Departure
With Brandon Starcevich moving to West Coast Eagles, the Brisbane Lions are relying on their defensive depth. Ryan Lester believes Noah Answerth can fill the void, but it's a big ask. The Lions have a mix of experienced and young defenders, but the loss of Starcevich will be felt. The captaincy decision, following Lachie Neale's departure, adds another layer of intrigue.
Adelaide Crows Breathe Sigh of Relief After Scare
The Crows had a scare when star forwards Izak Rankine and Riley Thilthorpe faced injury concerns during training. Fortunately, both escaped serious injury, but it highlights the risks of intense pre-season training. Meanwhile, new recruit Cal Ah Chee is already making waves, impressing with his leadership and skill set.
Elsewhere in the AFL...
- Melbourne's Jack Viney is on the road to recovery from Achilles soreness, with a return to full training expected soon.
- Geelong welcomes back Tyson Stengle after an extended leave, a boost for the Cats.
- North Melbourne's top draftee, Lachy Dovaston, is poised for a Round 1 debut, showcasing impressive speed and agility.
The pre-season is shaping up to be a thrilling ride, with plenty of storylines to follow. But here's where it gets controversial: will the Eagles' young stars maintain their form, or is it a flash in the pan? And can Collingwood's De Goey stay healthy for a full season? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
