Rising Stars in the All-Australian Team
Each year, the All-Australian team is a celebration of individual excellence and the unique contributions players make to their teams. While the lineup often features the game’s biggest names, there are also lesser-known players who manage to carve out a place on the team, making for some of the most compelling stories.
Here are a few players who have been making waves this season:
Max Hall – A Mid-Season Star
Max Hall, a mid-season draftee from the 2024 intake, has quickly become a standout for St Kilda. His performance has been impressive, with a top five finish in the best and fairest and averaging 20 disposals and a goal per game. Hall’s ability to pinch-hit around the ball and contribute four clearances per contest has made him a valuable asset.
His aerial presence and aerobic capacity have been key, and he has added tackling to his game, averaging nearly three tackles per week. If he continues to perform at this level, and the Saints can maintain their momentum, Hall could be in line for a spot in the initial squad of 44.
Liam Ryan – Reclaiming His Form
Liam Ryan has been a revelation for St Kilda, re-discovering his game-breaking form in recent weeks. Scoring 14 majors in his last three contests, Ryan is a key player for the Saints’ forward line. If his recent performance becomes his norm, he could see his name included in the All-Australian team by the end of the season.
Billy Frampton – Quietly Having a Career Year
Billy Frampton, once a controversial figure, is having a career year in 2026. With the absence of key defenders like Jeremy Howe and Darcy Moore, Frampton has stepped up to the challenge. He leads the league in spoils, is among the top 10 for intercept marks, and has improved his disposal efficiency significantly.
Frampton’s contested one-on-one loss percentage is comparable to that of Harris Andrews, a top key defender. His performance has been so strong that he is now a serious contender for an All-Australian blazer.
Brent Daniels – A Versatile Giant
Brent Daniels, a versatile player for the Giants, is ranked 13th in the AFL for Player Rating points. His impact on the game is undeniable, but he needs to stay injury-free to fully showcase his potential. Daniels is fast, tough, and has a strong tackling record, making him a genuine shout for the All-Australian team if he can maintain his form.
Kade Chandler – A Rising Demon
Kade Chandler, a utility player for the Demons, has recently signed a five-year contract extension, highlighting his importance to the team. He averages a goal per game, the most disposals of his career, and has been a key player in the Demons’ attacking identity.
Chandler’s performance has been crucial in the Demons’ renewed attacking strategy, and he is one of many small forwards who could be in contention for an All-Australian spot.
John Noble – A Comeback Story
John Noble, a former Pie, has had a strong comeback since missing out on the 2023 triumph. He is averaging the most disposals of his career and has improved his efficiency. His clangers have been minimized, and he is a vital player for Damien Hardwick’s side.
Noble’s performance has been so consistent that he is likely to be considered for the halfback line alongside other top players.
Wayne Milera – A Consistent Performer
Wayne Milera has been a consistent performer for the Crows this season. His 26 disposals per game are a significant improvement, and he is contributing more in terms of score launches and intercept possessions. Matthew Nicks has given him more freedom to play, and his performance has been instrumental in the team’s success.
Oliver Dempsey – A Specialist Wingman
Oliver Dempsey’s inclusion in the All-Australian team hinges on whether the committee selects genuine wingmen for specialist positions. If they do, Dempsey is a shoo-in. His ability to redefine his position and make smart decisions on the field has made him a key player for the Cats.
Bodhi Uwland – A Key Defender
Bodhi Uwland is another player benefiting from the transition in key defensive stocks. While Sam Taylor and Jacob Weitering face challenges, Uwland has been a reliable presence. His performance across the last few seasons makes him a strong candidate for the All-Australian team.
Sam Berry – A Defensive Midfielder
Sam Berry has been a key player for the Crows, contributing to a change in fortunes for the team. His grunt work allows his teammates to shine, and he is among the competition’s premier defensive midfielders. Berry’s performance in big moments, such as the Showdown Medal, highlights his value to the team.
These players are just a few of the many who could be in contention for an All-Australian spot. Their performances this season have been remarkable, and they deserve recognition for their contributions to the game.
