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: Geelong struggled under the weight of their 47-point loss to Brisbane the previous year, fighting to stay in the top eight as critics questioned if their golden era had finally ended.

: Zach Merrett , having failed to secure an offseason move to the Hawks, played with a heavy heart for the Bombers, his every disposal scrutinized by fans who knew he still wanted out. : Geelong struggled under the weight of their

: For the first time, fans watched a game without the traditional center bounce, replaced by a throw-up as part of the 2026 rule changes designed to protect umpires. The Melbourne Cricket Ground was packed for the

The Melbourne Cricket Ground was packed for the Anzac Day clash, but the real story was happening in the background of a chaotic trade period. ESPN's top 20 must-watch players for the 2026

As the season reached late April, the league was abuzz with rumors of a mid-season trade period that could save the Western Bulldogs' struggling campaign. Meanwhile, in the shadows, the league prepared for the 2027 arrival of the Tasmanian Devils, with coaching veterans already being linked to the new franchise.

ESPN's top 20 must-watch players for the 2026 AFL season: 20-11