The 2026 AFL season is fast approaching, and the question on every fan's mind is: who will rise to the top? In this three-part series, we'll take a deep dive into the predicted ladder, exploring the strengths and weaknesses of each team. But here's where it gets controversial... Let's start with the team that may just be the dark horse of the competition: Brisbane. Is Brisbane's best yet to come?
Eight of Brisbane's premiership side were 23 or under, three of them teenagers. Quite a few of those players are already stars of the competition, and there's a patience to them - not just in individual passages, in quarters and in games, but throughout entire seasons. They conserve, test, probe, and pounce. They know when to coast, when to dig in, and when to unleash. With the season never being longer, these are important qualities to have.
In 2025, once they got the game on their terms, it was a remorseless advance. It started from the back. Their defenders have cool heads, soft eyes, and zero doubt. Further afield, they'd kick the ball in pentagons and parallelograms - 15 meters, 55 meters, sideways, diagonal, straight down the middle - all invariably inch perfect. Everything about them suggests they can go on with it - their depth, their balance of ages, heights, roles, and risk appetites.
However, the question remains: can they establish themselves as one of the greatest teams we've ever seen? The competition is fierce, and with a tough draw this year, it'll take more than just talent to rise to the top. But with their unique style of play and a team full of potential, Brisbane may just surprise us all. So, will they rise to the occasion and claim the premiership? Or will they fall short of their potential? Only time will tell. But one thing's for sure: Brisbane is a team to watch in 2026.
