AFL Senior Coaching Landscape Set for Major Shifts in 2026
As the back half of 2026 approaches, the AFL senior coaching landscape is poised for significant changes. With potentially as many as three or four teams seeking new leadership, the coming months could see a flurry of appointments and departures.
Tasmania, as the expansion club, is expected to name their inaugural coach this year ahead of their scheduled 2028 competition debut. However, the situation at other clubs is equally intriguing. Carlton, Essendon, and West Coast are all facing challenges that may lead to coaching changes.
Leading AFL reporter Cal Twomey believes the Devils will move first, potentially locking in their senior coach in the next few months. “I think we’re about to enter a stage where there’s a competitive space for the next senior coaching appointment,” Twomey said on Nine’s Footy Classified.
He highlighted that at least two clubs, including Carlton and Tasmania, are expected to be looking for a senior coach in the next month to six weeks. Tasmania has adjusted its plans, shifting the focus from appointing a football boss first to hiring a senior coach directly.
Carlton currently sits at 1-7 after eight games, making it unlikely that Michael Voss will extend his contract. This means the Blues will likely begin their search for a new senior coach soon. The situation at Essendon and West Coast remains uncertain, with both clubs facing tough seasons. Essendon has won just one of their last 21 games, while West Coast has suffered two 100-point losses and a defeat to an injury-ravaged Richmond.
Essendon legend Matthew Lloyd suggested that Brad Scott is “50-50” to remain at the club next year.
Regardless of whether it’s two or four teams on the hunt, the pool of available coaches is strong. Former Collingwood coach Nathan Buckley is seen as the heavy favorite for the Tasmanian job, but Twomey believes the appointment is not a certainty. Buckley has taken an assistant coaching role with Geelong in 2026 and has expressed interest in the Tassie job, though he has ruled out considering the potential Carlton job.
Assuming Buckley does end up as the man for the Tassie job, Carlton will have a range of candidates to consider. Their CEO Graham Wright, who appointed Craig McRae at Collingwood in 2021, is expected to take a similar approach this time around. Potential names include Adam Simpson, John Longmire, and Ken Hinkley.
Simpson, a former West Coast premiership coach, is currently working in the media but has been mentoring Voss. He has indicated he would not pursue the job if Voss is sacked. Hinkley, who was Voss’ mentor at Port Adelaide, presents an awkward situation for Carlton due to his influence on Voss’ strategies.
John Longmire, a veteran coach with a premiership under his belt, is seen as a likely candidate if he decides to return to the field. His experience at Sydney and ability to build consistent contenders make him a strong option.
In addition to these experienced coaches, there are several untried assistants making waves. Melbourne’s turnaround under Steven King highlights the potential of emerging talent. Shaun Grigg, a Gold Coast assistant coach, has impressed former Melbourne captain Garry Lyon with his tactical and leadership skills.
Jaymie Graham, a Fremantle assistant coach, is another name to watch. He was among the finalists for the Collingwood job and has experience working alongside top coaches like Chris Scott and Sam Mitchell.
Other promising names include James Kelly, Corey Enright, Daniel Giansiracusa, Scott Burns, and Brendon Lade, who have been in the mix for senior coaching jobs for years.
Carlton made the decision to back Voss late in 2025, but after just eight games, the split seems inevitable. For now, they head to Queensland to face reigning premiers Brisbane on Friday night.
