The AFL 2025 season promises to be one of the most thrilling in years. Teams are rebuilding, stars are returning from injury, and young players are ready to shine. Fans can look forward to a highly competitive year as clubs aim to improve their rosters, strategies, and performances. These next few months will show whether their efforts can lead to success.
Here are the teams to watch as the season unfolds.
Reigning Champions: Staying on Top Won’t Be Easy
Reigning champions always face added pressure, and 2025 will be no different. Teams that performed well last season now have targets on their backs. Opponents have studied their playstyles and weaknesses, making back-to-back wins even harder to achieve.
For example, the Brisbane Lions dominated last season with their strong midfield and solid defence. They delivered when it mattered most and earned widespread praise. To stay at the top, they need to remain hungry and adaptable. If they do, they will remain strong contenders this year.
Rising Teams: Young Players Stepping Up
Some teams are emerging as serious contenders, thanks to the energy and potential of their young players. Clubs that came close to success last year may finally reach the top if their key players step up. AFL predictions today suggest that teams with rising stars could surprise the competition this season.
Gold Coast Suns have quietly built a team full of promise. Talents like Matt Rowell and Noah Anderson are ready to take the next step. Their fast-paced game and growing team chemistry could take them far. Fremantle Dockers are another team on the rise. Their mix of young energy and experienced players makes them dangerous. If their forwards find consistency, they can compete with the league’s best.
Young players often make the difference for AFL teams. When they support the established stars, it creates the balance needed for success. This growth is one reason why the AFL remains one of the most popular sports in the country.
Teams Looking for a Comeback
Every year, some teams bounce back after a tough season. Injuries, bad form, or close losses may have set them back, but they now have a chance to prove themselves.
The Richmond Tigers struggled in the past seasons but still have the tools to return to the top. With players like Dustin Martin and Tom Lynch back in full form, they can rediscover their trademark aggression. Carlton also has a lot to prove. Their balanced roster has the potential to succeed, and greater composure in tight matches could make all the difference.
These teams need a strong start to rebuild their confidence and set the stage for a successful year.
Teams Built on Defense
Defence often wins games in AFL. Teams with strong backlines and solid defensive systems can hold their ground even in tough matchups. Several clubs are focusing on their defence to move up the ladder in 2025.
Sydney Swans are a great example of a team built around defence. Players like Tom McCartin lead a backline that frustrates opponents and shuts down attacks. Melbourne Demons also stand out, using their defensive strength to launch quick counterattacks that catch teams off guard. Clubs that focus on limiting their opponents’ scoring chances will be difficult to beat.
High-Scoring Teams: Attacks That Turn the Tide
Some teams rely on their powerful forwards to overwhelm opponents. These high-scoring teams can pile on goals quickly, shifting the momentum of a game in their favour.
The Brisbane Lions boast one of the league’s strongest forward lines. Charlie Cameron and Joe Daniher lead their attack, and their ability to adapt to different defences makes them dangerous. Geelong Cats, despite their aging stars, still have elite forwards who punish defensive mistakes.
For attacking teams, maintaining pressure and accuracy in the forward half will be essential this season.
Teams Under Pressure: Time to Step Up
This year, some clubs are under more pressure than others. High expectations or past struggles have put them in the spotlight. Coaches, players, and management will all need to perform.
Port Adelaide has plenty of talent but has yet to turn that into a premiership. Fans expect results, and the team needs to deliver. Similarly, St Kilda faces pressure to improve after years of near misses. They have the potential but must focus on cutting out costly errors in key moments.
For these clubs, leadership and consistency will decide whether they meet expectations or fall short.
Wildcard Teams: Surprise Packages
Every season, a few teams surprise fans and exceed expectations. These wildcard teams use momentum and strong team chemistry to pull off upsets and challenge the competition’s top contenders.
The Adelaide Crows and Western Bulldogs could be the wildcard teams in 2025. Both have shown flashes of brilliance but need more consistency. If their midfield and forwards play at their best, they can take on any team in the league. Teams like these are unpredictable, which makes them a threat.
A Season Full of Possibilities
The 2025 AFL season will bring exciting matches, standout performances, and close contests. Reigning champions will fight to keep their edge while rising teams and comeback contenders look to shake up the ladder. Whether through strong defence or high-scoring attacks, clubs will need to stay sharp and consistent.
For fans, the season promises memorable moments and thrilling games. With so many teams capable of success, every round will matter. The big question remains: Who will rise to the top and claim the AFL premiership in 2025?
