The 2026 AFL free agency period is set to be a blockbuster with some of the league’s biggest stars up for grabs. In this video, we break down the key players who will be eligible for free agency next year and their potential impact on the market.
Zak Butters (Port Adelaide): The highly sought-after midfielder could command a massive trade.
Zac Bailey (Brisbane): After a stellar season, Bailey’s value is at an all-time high.
Sam Walsh (Carlton): Clubs are eyeing the young gun, but will the Blues let him go?
Ben King (Gold Coast): Victorian clubs are rumored to be interested in bringing King home.
These are just a few of the big names on the list. We’ll also dive into the full list of free agents for each club, including:
Adelaide: Jordon Butts, Rory Laird, Taylor Walker
Brisbane: Noah Answerth, Darcy Gardiner, Dayne Zorko
Carlton: Nick Haynes, Nic Newman, Zac Williams
Collingwood: Jack Crisp, Jeremy Howe, Scott Pendlebury
Essendon: Jade Gresham, Matt Guelfi, Jaxon Prior
Fremantle: Bailey Banfield, Oscar McDonald, Patrick Voss
Geelong: Mark Blicavs, Patrick Dangerfield, Jack Martin
Gold Coast: Oscar Adams, Caleb Graham, Lachie Weller
GWS: Kieren Briggs, Stephen Coniglio, Toby Greene
Hawthorn: Jack Gunston, Mitch Lewis, Harry Morrison
Melbourne: Tom Campbell, Bayley Fritsch, Steven May
North Melbourne: Aidan Corr, Luke McDonald, Bailey Scott
Port Adelaide: Darcy Byrne-Jones, Ollie Wines
Richmond: Nathan Broad, Tom Lynch, Toby Nankervis
St Kilda: Jack Carroll, Liam Stocker
Sydney: Joel Amartey, Harry Cunningham, Joel Hamling
West Coast: Tom Cole, Matt Flynn, Bailey Williams
Western Bulldogs: Lachie Bramble, Ryan Gardner, Tom Liberatore
Get ready for an exciting off-season as clubs battle to secure these top talents!
Get ready for an exciting journey as we dive into the world of AFL free agency. The 2026 season is shaping up to be a gamecher with a star-studded list of players hitting the market. From talented midfielders to goalcoring machines, every club is eyeing these free agents to bolster their ranks. But here’s where it gets controversial. Some of these players might just be too good to let go. Let’s start with the hottest name on the list, Zack Butters of Port Adelaide. This star midfielder has been a talking point all season with his future up for grabs. With his home state of Victoria calling, it’s a wonder what it would take to pry him away from the power. Given their ability to match any offer, it’s a tough battle for any club to win. But Butters isn’t the only one creating a buzz. Zack Bailey, the two-time Premiership hero from Brisbane, has seen his values skyrocket. His performance in the grand final and all Australian recognition have clubs lining up to make massive offers. Will the Lions be able to keep him or will he be lured away? And this is the part most people miss. Free agency isn’t just about the big names. It’s also an opportunity for clubs to snap up key forwards and defenders who can make a huge impact. Take Mitch Lewis of Hawthorne for example or Patrick Voss of Freemantle. These players could be the missing pieces for any team. As we look ahead to the 2026 season, one thing is certain, the AFL landscape is about to change. With so many talented players on the move, it’s it’s an exciting time for fans and clubs alike. But who will make the right moves? And will any of these free agents spark a controversy by choosing a new team? Let’s discuss. What do you think about the upcoming free agency period? Which player do you think will be the biggest gamecher for their new club? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below.
