AFL 2026: Three Bets Worth Watching This Season

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With the 2026 AFL season fast approaching, sportsbooks have released their opening lines on several key markets. Three bets stand out as particularly worth watching: Nick Daicos as the +500 Brownlow Medal favorite, the Brisbane Lions at +350 to win the Grand Final, and Geelong at -150 to finish in the top 4 despite the 'Grand Final curse'.

Why it matters

The Brownlow Medal, Grand Final, and top 4 finish are among the most closely watched and bet on events in Australian rules football. How these three storylines play out will have major implications for the 2026 season and shape the futures of several top teams and players.

The details

Nick Daicos, the Collingwood midfielder, is the +500 favorite to win the Brownlow Medal after finishing second in the award the past two seasons. His impressive 2025 stats, including leading the league in disposals, clearances, and goal assists, have many analysts predicting this will be his breakout year. The Brisbane Lions, coming off back-to-back premierships and three straight Grand Final appearances, are the +350 favorites to win the 2026 Grand Final with their deep midfield and well-organized defense. Meanwhile, Geelong faces the 'Grand Final curse' at -150 to finish in the top 4, despite having one of the competition's most potent forward lines led by Jeremy Cameron.

• The 2026 AFL season begins in March.
• The Brownlow Medal is awarded in September.
• The 2026 AFL Grand Final will be played in late September.

What’s next

As the 2026 AFL season approaches, sportsbooks will continue to adjust their odds and lines on these key markets. Bettors and fans will be closely watching to see if Daicos can finally win the Brownlow, if the Brisbane dynasty can continue, and if Geelong can overcome the 'Grand Final curse'.