Previewing Every AFL Club for 2026: Fantasy Locks, Bargains, and Rookies
The countdown to AFL 2026 is underway, and coaches across the country are sprinting to lock in their best fantasy lineups. The Traders have dissected every club’s preseason trajectory, highlighting fantasy locks, potential bargains, and rookie sleepers who could reshape teams once the season kicks off. Here’s a comprehensive guide to what to expect from each club and how to approach drafting your AFL Fantasy squad this year.
What Makes a Fantasy Lock in 2026?
A true fantasy lock is a player with consistent output, clear role, and a schedule that supports strong scoring. In 2026, those players typically combine durable body language, injury history, and a favorable fixture. When reviewing club previews, look for: proven midfielders who are unlikely to lose time to rotation, key forwards with steady goal involvement, and defenders who accumulate consistently via rebound possessions. The Traders identify several names across clubs that fit this profile, offering reliable captaincy options and points floor across the season.
Key Factors to Consider
- Role security: A player with a defined position and minutes is invaluable for weekly scoring consistency.
- Fixture strength: Early-season run can set the tone for ladder position and cash generation in a market where fixtures matter more than ever.
- Injury history: A clean bill of health from the preseason is a strong indicator of durability.
- Pricing value: Bargains aren’t just cheap; they’re players expected to exceed their salary ceiling with opportunity.
Bargains: Where to Look in 2026
Every season brings players priced to surprise. The 2026 previews flag several bargains who could outperform their price tag, especially players stepping into expanded roles due to team turnover, coaching strategies, or injuries to teammates. These bargains are not flashy, but they deliver consistent points when matched with favorable fixtures. Scouting them early can give you a strong starting squad with bench depth that doesn’t break the bank.
Rookies: The Sleeper Questions
Rookies are the wildcards of AFL Fantasy. Some will explode into premium scorers; others will struggle to secure minutes. The club previews emphasize rookies with clear pathways to senior football, backed by pre-season training reports and coach comments. If a rookie shows energy, intent, and a role in the team’s plans, it’s worth considering as a late-round pick or a seed for your future trades. Remember, early-season trades are your friend when rookie performances don’t translate to fantasy rewards immediately.
Club-by-Club Snapshot: What to Watch
While each club has its own narrative, the common thread is opportunity. The best AFL Fantasy teams in 2026 will blend proven performers with high-upside contributors who grab minutes and goals when given the chance. The Traders’ previews offer club-by-club insights, including:
- Which midfielders are likely to shoulder the heavy lifting in 2026.
- Which defenders are set for increased rebound and scoring opportunities.
- Forward lines with strong goal-ensemce and consistent scores.
Strategic Draft Tips for AFL 2026
As you prepare your draft strategy, keep these tips in mind: start with a solid core of reliable scorers, mix in a couple of high-upside rookies, and reserve some cap space for mid-season upgrades. Track preseason form and any coaching comments about roles, as these can signal changes in minutes or responsibilities. The aim is a balanced squad that can adapt to injuries and form slumps without sacrificing overall ceiling.
Final Take: Building Your 2026 AFL Fantasy Team
With every club previewed, the path to a successful AFL Fantasy season starts with smart selection, patient trades, and a keen eye on player roles. The Traders’ analysis provides a valuable map for identifying fantasy locks, uncovering bargains, and spotting rookie gems who could become season-defining contributors. Start your squad now, monitor preseason developments, and be ready to pivot as clubs reveal their final structures before round one.
