Carlton Team Preview 2026

Many expect the Blues to take a step back this year. I still think they can produce a few SuperCoach gems for you to consider in your side.

Shout out to Janath Fernando ( The Professor ) who helped guide me on this one. Let’s see what Carlton has to offer. 

 

The Lock  

Nic Newman ( Def ) $439.300

Let’s rewind to 2024, Nic averaged 101.5 with 4 scores over 145 ( and three under 65 ) High Ceiling Low floor. Not ideal, but they did mess with his role a fair bit. In 2025 Newman fell foul to a nasty patella injury. There was talk he could of maybe returned late in the year, but extra precaution was taken due to his age and the Blues ladder position. Basically Nic fits the profile of a fallen premium perfectly. Yes he’s just turned 33, but he does play that mostly bruise free half back role. Nic could be as much as $100K under priced. Kick ins are a big part of if Nic could get back to his premium scoring. Keep an eye on his role in preseason. I’m confident enough that he’s currently  sitting in my side. 

 

The Dark Horse  

George Hewett ( Mid ) $607.300 

George was one of the real surprise packets of last season. He and Mc Luggage burst up to the top of the midfield rankings with incredible starts to the year. Fast forward to 2026 and there’s some doubts around if Hewett can repeat the heroics of 2025. Do the new rules negatively affect him ? Scobes in his great analysis has pointed out George gets a fair share of his points from stoppages. What ever happens, Hewett will always be a great two way runner, with a solid midfield role. low owned is an understatement. Hewett is most certainly a Dark Horse in 2026. 

 

The Breakout 

Cooper Lord $324 200 

Copper who ? Well here’s a funny story. I had a friend from Melbourne visiting Sydney recently, He said to keep an eye out for his Nephew who plays for Carlton. I’m like ok What’s his name ? The guy goes Cooper Lord, looks like he’s finally getting a game in the seniors. I’m not a huge one for omens, but I had a little look into his numbers and there might just be something there.. He got his chance at the end of 2025 ( Rounds 21-23 ) Where he attended 70% CBA’s and averaged 101 SuperCoach points. I can see a few parallels with what Ned Long did when he eventually got his chance at Collingwood. Yes he’s an awkward price, but I seriously think he could be worth a look as a M5- M6 option. keep an eye on the preseason games to see how the Blues are shaping up.

 

The Rookie 

Jagga Smith ( Mid ) $119.900 

I don’t need a heap of stats to tell you the Kid’s class. A few brief clips of him in preseason is enough to know he passes the eye test with flying colors. Put him in your SC side. If he stays fit he will play and he will make cash. Harry Dean ( Def ) $194 500 is worth a quick mention as well. He’s another prodigious talent that will most likely play early. The price is a little steep, but Connor O’Sullivan ( Geelong ) proved last year, that key backs can score ok, and make cash if given the right roles. Pop him on your watch list just in case. Lastly I will also mention Liam Reidy ( Ruck / Fwd ) $119.900. I honestly don’t think he will play if Pitto is fit. I see him at R3 in a heap of sides. I’m saving the $20k and getting Kalani White. 

Once again, Thank you to Janath for helping compile this list of Carlton hopefuls. 

Who are you looking at from a Carlton perspective in 2026 ? 

Feel free to let us know in the comments

Cheers FT.