Here's a thrilling look at the 18 clubs gearing up for the AFL match simulations, with new faces and tactics set to captivate fans. But be warned, some clubs are just days away from the real deal, so get ready for an action-packed season! AFL Origin kicked off the 2026 season with a bang, and now the anticipation is building for the Opening Round. Before the official pre-season games, Monday marks the first of the AFL match simulations, offering fans a sneak peek at new strategies and players. Watch the 2026 AFL pre-season match sims and AAMI Community Series LIVE and ad-break free on FOX FOOTY, available on Kayo Sports. Adelaide Crows: With two-game ruckman Lachlan McAndrew impressing at training, the Crows are poised for an exciting season. Keep an eye on Cal Ah Chee's integration and the battle for fringe spots. Brisbane Lions: Keidean Coleman's health and role in the backline are key. Noah Answerth's return and Oscar Allen's impact will be crucial. Carlton: Jagga Smith's midfield prowess and Sam Walsh's injury-free year are worth watching. The forward line, with Will Hayward and Ben Ainsworth, will be a force to reckon with. Collingwood: Emerging players like Charlie West and Jack Buller are in the mix. Ed Allan's engine room opportunities and the impact of recruits like Tom Doedee are worth noting. Essendon: The Bombers will unleash first-round draftees Jacob Farrow and Dyson Sharp. Isaac Kako's return and Brayden Fiorini's slotting in will be intriguing. Fremantle: Luke Jackson's role as a pure midfielder and the impact of recruits like Judd McVee and Mason Cox are key. Geelong Cats: Rhys Stanley and Mark Blicavs lead the ruck set-up, with Toby Conway's progress and James Worpel's impression notable. Gold Coast Suns: Jamarra Ugle-Hagan's emergence and Ben King's consistency are highlights. Christian Petracca's role and the impact of recruits like Zeke Uwland are worth watching. GWS Giants: Tom Green's injury and the importance of Clayton Oliver and Finn Callaghan are noted. Keep an eye on young talents like Ollie Hannaford and Harry Oliver. Hawthorn: The Hokball rascal pack, led by Nick Watson and Connor Macdonald, is set to dazzle. Lloyd Meek's ruck mantle and the tall set-up are intriguing. Melbourne: Caleb Windsor's development and the forward line's chemistry with Brody Mihocek are key. Max Heath's progression and the defensive mix will be interesting. North Melbourne: Finn O'Sullivan's role and the midfield mix with Harry Sheezel and Tom Powell are worth noting. Port Adelaide: Connor Rozee's move to half-back and the impact of recruits like Todd Marshall and Jacob Wehr are highlighted. Richmond: The Tigers will focus on youngsters like Sam Grlj and Sam Cumming. Pat Retschko's wing impact and the battle for Round 1 spots are intriguing. St Kilda: Tom De Koning's defense and Rowan Marshall's marking forward role are key. Sam Flanders' midfield minutes and Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera's versatility are worth watching. Sydney Swans: Charlie Curnow's fitness and chemistry with midfielders are crucial. Keep an eye on Malcolm Rosas, Jai Serong, and Ned Bowman pushing for the Opening Round line-up. West Coast Eagles: The backline with Brandon Starcevich and Tylar Young is impressive. Harley Reid's form and the midfield mix with Tom McCarthy and Harry Schoenberg are notable. Western Bulldogs: The defense's improvement and Rory Lobb's key forward role are key. Sam Darcy's prodigious form and the impact of recruits like Cooper Hynes are worth noting. But here's where it gets controversial... The AFL's decision to set a deposit limit for gambling has sparked debate. And this is the part most people miss... The match simulations offer a unique insight into the clubs' strategies and player development, providing a fascinating glimpse into the season ahead. Keep an eye out for these clubs and players as they gear up for an action-packed 2026 AFL season!
