- Today
- Holidays
- Birthdays
- Reminders
- Cities
- Atlanta
- Austin
- Baltimore
- Berwyn
- Beverly Hills
- Birmingham
- Boston
- Brooklyn
- Buffalo
- Charlotte
- Chicago
- Cincinnati
- Cleveland
- Columbus
- Dallas
- Denver
- Detroit
- Fort Worth
- Houston
- Indianapolis
- Knoxville
- Las Vegas
- Los Angeles
- Louisville
- Madison
- Memphis
- Miami
- Milwaukee
- Minneapolis
- Nashville
- New Orleans
- New York
- Omaha
- Orlando
- Philadelphia
- Phoenix
- Pittsburgh
- Portland
- Raleigh
- Richmond
- Rutherford
- Sacramento
- Salt Lake City
- San Antonio
- San Diego
- San Francisco
- San Jose
- Seattle
- Tampa
- Tucson
- Washington
Rising Stars Lalor and Smith Set to Clash in AFL Season Opener
The highly anticipated matchup between Richmond's Sam Lalor and Carlton's Jagga Smith highlights the AFL's youth movement.
Published on Mar. 12, 2026
Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›
The upcoming clash between Richmond's Sam Lalor and Carlton's Jagga Smith is more than just another round one fixture - it's a symbolic passing of the torch in the AFL. Both players, drafted within two picks of each other in 2024, represent the exciting influx of young talent reshaping the league. After Smith missed his entire first season due to injury, the stage is set for a compelling head-to-head battle that showcases the AFL's focus on developing its next generation of stars.
Why it matters
The focus on young guns like Lalor and Smith highlights a broader trend within the AFL, as clubs increasingly prioritize high draft picks and invest in developing these players. This strategy is crucial for sustained success, as the league aims to attract fans with exciting, dynamic players who can become franchise cornerstones.
The details
Richmond coach Adem Yze anticipates Lalor will see increased midfield time, shifting from a 60-40 split between forward and midfield roles. This strategic adjustment underscores the value placed on versatile players capable of impacting the game in multiple ways. Carlton coach Michael Voss acknowledged the contrasting styles - Lalor's power versus Smith's smoothness - and the importance of gaining an advantage in the matchup.
- The 2024 AFL Draft saw Lalor and Smith selected within two picks of each other.
- Smith missed his entire first season due to injury and is set to make his long-awaited debut.
- The Richmond-Carlton season opener is scheduled for March 12, 2026.
The players
Sam Lalor
A Richmond player who had an impressive debut season in 2025 before being sidelined by injury.
Jagga Smith
A Carlton player who was drafted close to Lalor in 2024 but missed his entire first season due to injury.
Adem Yze
The head coach of the Richmond Football Club.
Michael Voss
The head coach of the Carlton Football Club.
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
This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.
