AFL Preseason: Swans Rise, Ruck Changes & Rookie Watch

New rules, emerging talent, and strategic shifts shape the 2026 AFL season

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The 2026 AFL season is shaping up to be a pivotal one, marked by significant rule changes and the emergence of exciting new talent. Recent match simulations have offered a glimpse into how these changes will impact the game, with several key storylines already taking shape, including the 'ruck revolution', the Pickett cousins at Melbourne, the Sydney Swans' improved squad, and rising stars to watch like Jagga Smith and Sam Lalor.

Why it matters

The 2026 AFL season promises to be an exciting one, with rule changes that could significantly impact team strategies and the rise of promising young players who could shape the future of the league. These developments will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike as they unfold over the course of the upcoming season.

The details

One of the most talked-about changes for 2026 is the scrapping of the sub rule, increasing bench size to five players. This has sparked debate about the role of ruckmen, with some speculating that clubs will be more inclined to play two talls in the same team. The new rules also restrict rucks from crossing the centre line before engaging with their opponent, aiming to encourage more jumping contests. Several clubs are exploring dual-ruck strategies, including Hawthorn, the Giants, and St Kilda. Meanwhile, Melbourne fans are excited about the potential of cousins Latrelle and Kysaiah Pickett, drawing comparisons to the Burgoyne brothers. The Sydney Swans also appear to be in a much stronger position heading into 2026, focusing on a faster, more dynamic ball movement style. Two draftees to watch are Jagga Smith (Carlton) and Sam Lalor (Richmond), both of whom faced injury setbacks in their debut seasons but have shown promising signs in pre-season match simulations.

  • The 2026 AFL season is shaping up to be a pivotal one.
  • Recent match simulations have offered a first glimpse into how these changes will impact the game.

The players

Lloyd Meek

A Hawthorn player who has been experimenting with playing alongside Ned Reeves in a dual-ruck strategy.

Ned Reeves

A Hawthorn player who has been experimenting with playing alongside Lloyd Meek in a dual-ruck strategy.

Max Gawn

The Melbourne captain who acknowledged that the new ruck rules might require adjustments to his established rucking style.

Kieren Briggs

A Giants player who is part of the team's exploration of a dual-ruck strategy, along with Nick Madden.

Nick Madden

A Giants player who is part of the team's exploration of a dual-ruck strategy, along with Kieren Briggs.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

The 2026 AFL season promises to be an exciting one, with rule changes that could significantly impact team strategies and the rise of promising young players who could shape the future of the league. Fans and analysts will be closely watching how these developments unfold over the course of the upcoming season.