The AFL's Evolving Tactics: Beyond the Obvious
The AFL never fails to surprise, and this season is no exception. As teams navigate the complexities of the 2026 season, it’s clear that success isn’t just about raw talent—it’s about adaptability, mindset, and the courage to try something new. Let’s dive into some of the most intriguing developments so far, and what they reveal about the state of the game.
The Tagging Dilemma: A Shift in Strategy
One of the most fascinating takeaways from recent matches is the idea that you don’t need to tag Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera to beat the Saints. Personally, I think this speaks to a broader trend in AFL: the diminishing returns of over-reliance on defensive tactics. Chris Fagan’s decision to free up his midfielders in the second half against St Kilda wasn’t just a tactical adjustment—it was a statement. What many people don’t realize is that tagging can sometimes handcuff your own team, limiting creativity and flow. The Lions’ victory wasn’t just about outplaying Nas; it was about trusting their own system. This raises a deeper question: are we seeing a shift away from man-marking as the default strategy? If so, it could revolutionize how teams approach high-stakes games.
Carlton’s Mindset: Winning vs. Not Losing
Carlton’s second-half collapses have become a recurring theme, and it’s not just about physical fatigue. From my perspective, this is a classic case of a team playing to avoid defeat rather than to secure victory. What makes this particularly fascinating is how it mirrors human psychology—the fear of failure often outweighs the drive to succeed. The Blues’ aggressive first halves are a testament to their potential, but their tentative second halves reveal a deeper issue. In my opinion, this isn’t something you fix with drills or tactics; it’s a cultural shift. Until Carlton embraces a winning mindset, they’ll continue to leave the door open for opponents.
Collingwood’s New Ruck Dynamic
Oscar Steene’s debut for Collingwood was more than just a feel-good story—it was a strategic masterstroke. What this really suggests is that the Pies are thinking beyond the obvious. Darcy Cameron is a proven ruckman, but Steene’s introduction adds a new dimension to their midfield. A detail that I find especially interesting is how this move addresses the challenges posed by the new ruck rules. By working in tandem, Cameron and Steene create a more dynamic and unpredictable presence at the center bounce. If you take a step back and think about it, this could be the blueprint for how teams approach the ruck position moving forward.
Adelaide’s High-Risk, High-Reward Ball Movement
Adelaide’s struggles when hemmed into their defensive 50 highlight a critical issue: their reliance on bold ball movement. Personally, I think this is both their greatest strength and their biggest vulnerability. When the Crows move the ball through the middle, they’re unstoppable—but when they’re forced into defensive patterns, they crumble. This raises a deeper question: can Adelaide sustain their high-risk, high-reward style over a full season? In my opinion, their success hinges on their ability to execute under pressure. It’s a gamble, but one that could pay off spectacularly if they get it right.
Luke Parker’s Unlikely Rebirth
Luke Parker’s move to half-back is one of the most inspired positional changes in recent memory. What makes this particularly fascinating is how it showcases Alastair Clarkson’s ability to think outside the box. Parker’s experience and poise have transformed North Melbourne’s defense, and his transition away from the midfield could extend his career. One thing that immediately stands out is how this move has also empowered younger players like Harry Sheezel and Finn O’Sullivan. It’s a win-win: Parker thrives in his new role, and the Roos build for the future.
Fremantle’s Forward Line: More Than Just Treacy
While Josh Treacy has been grabbing headlines, Jye Amiss’s resurgence is equally important. What many people don’t realize is that Amiss’s improved form adds a critical layer to Fremantle’s forward line. His ability to compete and create opportunities for others is a game-changer. From my perspective, this duo could become one of the most formidable forward combinations in the league. If Amiss continues to build confidence, the Dockers could be a serious contender this season.
Port Adelaide’s Silver Lining
Port Adelaide’s rebuild is far from complete, but Jack Whitlock’s emergence offers a glimmer of hope. What this really suggests is that even in down periods, young talent can shine. Whitlock’s performance against the Eagles was a reminder that development takes time, but the payoff can be immense. In my opinion, Whitlock is just the beginning—if Port can nurture their young stars, they could emerge stronger than ever in the coming years.
The Bigger Picture
If there’s one overarching theme this season, it’s the importance of adaptability. Whether it’s tactical adjustments, mindset shifts, or positional changes, the teams that thrive are the ones willing to take risks and think beyond the obvious. Personally, I think this season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory, not just for the on-field action, but for the strategic innovations it’s bringing to the forefront.
As we move deeper into the season, I’ll be watching closely to see which teams can sustain these bold moves and which will falter under pressure. One thing’s for sure: the AFL is evolving, and it’s a privilege to witness it firsthand.
