Who will make their debut first in 2026?

[one-eyed]

The players at each AFL team most likely to earn a debut in 2026

By Mitch Keating
zerohanger.com
21 Dec 2025

Richmond

Rookies: Sam Cumming, Zane Peucker, Noah Roberts-Thomson, Sam Grlj

Still waiting: Patrick Retschko, Oliver Hayes-Brown, Josh Smillie

Most likely to debut: A run free of injuries will hopefully see 2024 Pick 7 selection Josh Smillie get his chance at a debut, with soft-tissue setbacks continuing to plague the big-bodied midfielder. Pat Retschko could get a look after earning a career lifeline at Punt Road, while Sam Cumming and Sam Grlj will both be a chance of debuts come Round 1.

https://www.zerohanger.com/the-players-at-each-afl-team-most-likely-to-earn-a-debut-in-2026-171890/

[Tiger Khosh]

I’d expect 2 maybe 3 for round 1 but if I had to pick one that’s the most certain, I rekn it will be Grlj.

[WilliamPowell]

Josh Smillie

[Andyy]

Josh Smillie

Do you think that?

He's not due to return to training proper until Feb.

I'm guessing there will be a block of training and probably some VFL games. Wouldn't surprise me if he's 2nd half of the year.

Retschko, Cumming or Grlj for me.

Although I think Peucker and NRT will be looking at games too this year coming.