Two highly touted first-round picks for the Eagles, one from the national draft and another from a mid-season draft, are making significant impressions during pre-season training. The latest updates from teams including Collingwood, GWS, Brisbane, and Adelaide reveal promising developments as the AFL gears up for the upcoming season.
Eagles midfielder Clay Hall expressed his astonishment at the rapid development of mid-season recruit Tom McCarthy, who has demonstrated impressive skill this pre-season. Having made an impact last year in a defensive capacity after being selected as the first pick in the mid-season draft, the 25-year-old has transitioned to playing primarily as a midfielder this summer, a role he is expected to embrace fully in 2026. Hall described McCarthy as “a bit of a freak,” highlighting his incredible journey from local and VFL football to being drafted and excelling in WAFL games within just a year. “He”s such a clean player, which the AFL needs these days,” Hall noted, emphasizing McCarthy”s ability to avoid fumbles and his growing leadership presence on the field.
Hall also praised fellow teammate Harley Reid, who has returned in excellent shape for his third year with the Eagles. “The effort he”s putting into his diet and fitness has been just unreal so far,” Hall stated, expressing hope for Reid”s continued success this season.
Meanwhile, Collingwood coach Craig McRae appears to have found a rejuvenated Jordan De Goey, who shone in the team”s latest training session. After a challenging 2025 season that limited him to just 11 games, De Goey showcased his signature explosiveness during drills, particularly in a “1v1 fight” exercise. The absence of De Goey had a noticeable impact on the team last season, and his return to form could relieve some pressure from teammates like Nick Daicos and veteran Scott Pendlebury.
In addition, reigning Giants best and fairest winner Tom Green commented on the integration of new recruit Clayton Oliver, indicating that Oliver”s arrival would enhance the midfield dynamic rather than complicate it. Green acknowledged Oliver”s contributions to his own career and expressed excitement about developing chemistry alongside him this season.
On the defensive front, Brisbane veteran Ryan Lester expressed confidence in the team”s depth following the departure of Brandon Starcevich. Lester acknowledged the challenges posed by Starcevich”s exit but believes that players like Noah Answerth can step up to fill the void. As the team prepares for the season, decisions regarding the co-captaincy will also be crucial, particularly in light of Lachie Neale”s decision to step down.
In Adelaide, concerns arose during Wednesday”s training as star forwards Izak Rankine and Riley Thilthorpe faced injury scares. Both players, however, appeared to avoid serious injuries, a relief for the Crows as they navigate a challenging pre-season.
As teams prepare for the upcoming AFL season, the performances of emerging stars like McCarthy and Reid, along with established players like De Goey and Oliver, will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.
