The AFL season is back — and with it comes another year of thrilling matches, fierce rivalries, emerging stars, and the endless pursuit of premiership glory. As we dive into the 2025 AFL campaign, fans across the nation are eager to see who will rise, who will fall, and which moments will go down in footy history. From powerhouse clubs aiming to go all the way to rising stars ready to explode onto the scene, here’s everything you need to know before the first bounce.
🔥 Recapping 2024: Setting the Stage
Before we look ahead, let’s rewind. The 2024 AFL season delivered everything fans could hope for — nail-biting finals, stunning upsets, breakout players, and a premiership race that went down to the wire. Collingwood emerged as the premiers after a sensational grand final performance, defeating a spirited Brisbane Lions side that came agonisingly close to ending their title drought.
Several teams showed promising signs last season, while others struggled with form, injuries, and internal pressure. These storylines carry over into 2025 and will undoubtedly shape what’s to come.
🧢 The Premiership Contenders
1. Collingwood Magpies
The reigning premiers are once again the team to beat. Under Craig McRae, Collingwood has found a perfect blend of experience and youth. The Daicos brothers — Nick and Josh — are now genuine stars of the game, and their dynamic playmaking ability adds another layer to an already elite midfield.
Jordan De Goey, Darcy Moore, and Scott Pendlebury will continue to be key contributors, and with a deep list and strong culture, Collingwood looks ready to chase back-to-back flags — something that hasn’t been done since Hawthorn’s three-peat a decade ago.
2. Brisbane Lions
Brisbane came heartbreakingly close last year and they’ll be hungrier than ever in 2025. Lachie Neale remains one of the competition’s elite midfielders, and the continued development of Hugh McCluggage and Cam Rayner adds power to the Lions’ engine room.
If their key forwards — Joe Daniher and Eric Hipwood — can stay consistent, Brisbane has the firepower to go all the way. Defensive improvements will be crucial, especially against the top four sides.
3. Port Adelaide
Port showed flashes of brilliance in 2024 but ultimately fell short in the finals. However, their list is one of the most talented in the competition. Connor Rozee and Zak Butters are two of the most exciting young players in the league, and if they take another leap, Port becomes very dangerous.
Ken Hinkley remains under pressure to convert strong home-and-away form into finals success. Can 2025 be the year they finally break through?
đź’ˇ Dark Horses & Surprise Packets
Fremantle Dockers
Freo missed the finals last season, but their young core is maturing. With Jye Amiss showing signs of being a genuine key forward and the return of Nat Fyfe as a potential impact player, the Dockers could sneak into the top eight if they find consistency.
Carlton Blues
Carlton finished 2024 strong, with Sam Walsh and Patrick Cripps leading the way. Their midfield is stacked, and if their forward line stays healthy, the Blues could be a serious threat.
GWS Giants
GWS surprised many last year and have the tools to cause headaches again in 2025. Toby Greene’s leadership, paired with a tough midfield, makes them a team no one wants to face in September.
🌟 Rising Stars to Watch
Harley Reid (West Coast Eagles)
Drafted with the number one pick in 2023, Harley Reid is set for a breakout year in 2025. He showed glimpses of brilliance in his debut season and is expected to be the centrepiece of West Coast’s rebuild. Strong, explosive, and fearless — he’s one of the most exciting prospects in years.
Will Ashcroft (Brisbane Lions)
Ashcroft’s debut in 2023 was sensational before injury cut his 2024 season short. Fully fit again, he’s set to bolster an already-strong Brisbane midfield. Expect him to rack up possessions and draw early Brownlow chatter.
Jye Amiss (Fremantle Dockers)
Tall, mobile, and accurate in front of goal — Amiss could be the breakout key forward of the year. With more support and structure around him in 2025, 40+ goals is a realistic target.
📆 Must-Watch Matches of the Season
- Round 1: Collingwood vs. Richmond
A blockbuster to kick things off at the MCG. Richmond will be desperate to make a statement after a disappointing 2024. - Anzac Day: Essendon vs. Collingwood
One of the most iconic fixtures on the calendar. The build-up, emotion, and spectacle make this a must-watch every year. - Showdown: Port Adelaide vs. Adelaide Crows (Round 8)
Adelaide derbies never disappoint — expect fireworks on and off the field. - Western Derby: Fremantle vs. West Coast (Round 6)
Both teams are at a turning point. This clash could be a barometer for their seasons.
🧠Brownlow & Coleman Predictions
Brownlow Medal Contenders
- Nick Daicos (Collingwood) – A genuine star who racks up disposals and influences games. If he stays injury-free, he’s a front-runner.
- Lachie Neale (Brisbane) – Always in the conversation. A proven vote-getter with elite consistency.
- Marcus Bontempelli (Western Bulldogs) – Explosive, physical, and game-changing. Could lift the Dogs into contention if he stays hot.
Coleman Medal Hopefuls
- Charlie Curnow (Carlton) – Two-time reigning Coleman winner. Can he make it three?
- Jeremy Cameron (Geelong) – Still one of the most dangerous forwards in the game.
- Jye Amiss (Fremantle) – Dark horse, but has the tools to surprise.
🚨 Coaches Under Pressure
- Adam Simpson (West Coast Eagles) – After multiple tough seasons, another wooden spoon may be the end of the road.
- Ken Hinkley (Port Adelaide) – Finals success or bust. Anything less than a preliminary final may force changes.
- Ben Rutten (Essendon) – Needs to prove the rebuild is progressing or face scrutiny from fans and board alike.
🔮 Stream Update’s 2025 AFL Predictions
- Premiers: Collingwood Magpies
- Runner-Up: Brisbane Lions
- Brownlow Medalist: Nick Daicos
- Coleman Medalist: Charlie Curnow
- Top 4: Collingwood, Brisbane, Port Adelaide, Melbourne
- Biggest Improver: Fremantle
- Surprise Slider: Sydney Swans
đź“Ł Final Thoughts
The AFL 2025 season is loaded with storylines, excitement, and endless possibilities. Will Collingwood go back-to-back? Can Brisbane overcome their grand final heartbreak? Will a new contender emerge to shock the league?
Whatever unfolds, Stream Update will be right there with you — breaking news, match previews, player features, and post-game analysis from around the country. Strap in, footy fans — the season is here, and it’s going to be massive.
Follow us on social media for live updates and insights, and stay tuned for weekly blogs all season long.