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The 10 Best AFL Players in 2026 Ranked

Jesse Mclure

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Last updated: Fri 13 Mar 2026 07:53

Jesse Mclure 13 Mar 2026

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The 10 Best AFL Players
Marcus Bontempelli leads with midfield mastery.
Nick Daicos dominates as a ball winner.
Charlie Curnow stands out as a top forward.

The 10 Best AFL Players (Photo by Dylan Burns/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

The 10 Best AFL Players in 2026 Ranked

Every AFL season sparks the same debate. Who are the best players in the competition right now?

The 10 Best AFL Players in 2026 Ranked
1. Marcus Bontempelli
2. Nick Daicos
3. Christian Petracca
4. Lachie Neale
5. Sam Walsh
6. Max Gawn
7. Errol Gulden
8. Jordan Dawson
9. Caleb Serong
10. Charlie Curnow
The AFL’s Superstar Tier Is Still Growing

Highlight reels and big statistical games can push players into the conversation quickly, but true dominance is measured over time. The best players shape contests, influence big moments and consistently lift their teams when games are on the line.

Heading into the 2026 AFL season, a clear group of superstars sits above the rest. Here are the ten best players in the AFL right now.

1. Marcus Bontempelli

Marcus Bontempelli remains the benchmark for complete midfield dominance.

The Western Bulldogs captain controls stoppages, wins contested ball and still finds ways to impact the scoreboard. Few players combine physical presence with skill the way Bontempelli does. When the Bulldogs are playing well, it almost always starts with their captain taking control around the ball.

In terms of overall influence across a game, Bontempelli still sets the standard.

2. Nick Daicos

Nick Daicos has become the most prolific ball winner in the competition.

The Collingwood star regularly produces 35 to 40 disposal performances while driving the Magpies’ ball movement. His ability to find space and generate metres gained makes him one of the most damaging players in the AFL.

When Daicos gets into rhythm, entire games can shift around his influence.

3. Christian Petracca

Christian Petracca remains one of the most explosive midfielders in the league.

His strength through stoppages and ability to burst forward make him incredibly difficult to defend. Petracca also hits the scoreboard regularly, which separates him from many other midfielders.

When games become physical and contested, Petracca thrives.

4. Lachie Neale

Lachie Neale continues to prove why he is one of the most consistent midfielders of the modern era.

The Brisbane star’s ability to win the ball at stoppage and maintain possession under pressure keeps the Lions’ midfield functioning at a high level. Neale’s work rate and decision making remain elite.

Consistency is his biggest weapon.

5. Sam Walsh

Sam Walsh has developed into the engine of Carlton’s midfield.

His running capacity allows him to influence contests from end to end, and his ball winning ability continues to improve each season. Walsh often sets the tempo for the Blues, linking defence to attack through relentless work rate.

Few midfielders cover as much ground across four quarters.

6. Max Gawn

Even in a league that continues to evolve, Max Gawn remains the most influential ruckman in the AFL.

Gawn’s ability to control stoppages, take contested marks and drift forward makes him far more than a traditional ruck. Melbourne’s structure often revolves around his presence in the contest.

Dominant ruckmen still shape games, and Gawn is the best of them.

7. Errol Gulden

Errol Gulden has become one of Sydney’s most important players.

His kicking skills and creativity allow the Swans to move the ball quickly and efficiently through the middle of the ground. Gulden’s ability to damage teams both as a midfielder and forward adds another dimension to his game.

Few players use the ball better under pressure.

8. Jordan Dawson

Jordan Dawson’s leadership and versatility have made him central to Adelaide’s rise.

Whether playing through the midfield or across half-back, Dawson consistently drives ball movement and provides composure in big moments. His kicking range and decision making allow Adelaide to control territory.

He is one of the competition’s most complete modern players.

9. Caleb Serong

Caleb Serong has developed into one of the toughest midfield competitors in the AFL.

The Fremantle star thrives in contested situations and rarely loses a battle around the ball. His ability to win clearances and apply defensive pressure makes him a constant presence in games.

Serong’s impact continues to grow every season.

10. Charlie Curnow

Charlie Curnow remains one of the most dangerous forwards in the AFL.

When Carlton deliver the ball cleanly inside 50, Curnow becomes incredibly difficult to stop. His marking power and finishing ability allow him to turn games quickly.

Elite forwards are rare, and Curnow sits comfortably among the best.