In the world of Australian rules football, where every decision matters and every contract is scrutinized, the AFL trade market is a hotbed of activity and debate. As the 2026 season unfolds, the focus is on finding value and making strategic moves. In this article, I'll delve into the trade market, analyzing the most overpaid and underpaid players across the league, and offer my own insights and opinions on the matter.
The Trade Market: A Hotbed of Activity
The AFL trade market is a complex and dynamic environment, where clubs are constantly seeking to improve their lists and make strategic moves. At the heart of this market are the players themselves, and their contracts. As the 2026 season unfolds, the focus is on finding value and making strategic moves.
Overpaid Players: Who's Getting Paid Too Much?
One of the most intriguing aspects of the trade market is the identification of overpaid players. These are the players who, despite their talent and potential, are not delivering the value expected from their contracts. In my opinion, the overpaid players in the league are often those who have signed big deals but have yet to live up to the hype.
Darcy Fogarty (Adelaide Crows)
Darcy Fogarty is a prime example of an overpaid player. He signed a big six-year deal that will take him through to 2031, but has yet to hit the strides that we think he’s going to hit. Personally, I think that this contract is a bit of a gamble, and that Fogarty will need to step up to justify the investment. What makes this particularly fascinating is the potential for a breakout season, but also the risk of a disappointing performance.
Eric Hipwood (Brisbane Lions)
Eric Hipwood is another player who has signed a big deal, but has yet to live up to the hype. The fact that he’s done an ACL was very harsh, but the people who hate his contract don’t realize he’s only on about $500,000. In my opinion, this contract is a bit of a bargain, and Hipwood will need to step up to justify the investment. What makes this particularly fascinating is the potential for a comeback, but also the risk of a long recovery.
Underpaid Players: Who Deserves More?
On the flip side of the trade market are the underpaid players, who are often overlooked and underappreciated. These are the players who, despite their talent and potential, are not being paid what they deserve. In my opinion, the underpaid players in the league are often those who have been overlooked or undervalued.
Sam Berry (Adelaide Crows)
Sam Berry is a prime example of an underpaid player. He’s not an A-grader, but you know, I love his heart, spirit, and fight. I think he’s a handy little player, and his role is crucial for the Crows. What makes this particularly fascinating is the potential for a breakout season, but also the risk of being overlooked.
Milan Murdock (West Coast Eagles)
Milan Murdock is another player who is underpaid and deserves more. He’s one of their best players, and he’s getting paid $1.50! What makes this particularly fascinating is the potential for a big contract, but also the risk of being overlooked.
The Trade Market: A Complex Environment
The trade market is a complex environment, where clubs are constantly seeking to improve their lists and make strategic moves. At the heart of this market are the players themselves, and their contracts. As the 2026 season unfolds, the focus is on finding value and making strategic moves.
Conclusion: The Trade Market is a Hotbed of Activity
In conclusion, the AFL trade market is a hotbed of activity and debate, where clubs are constantly seeking to improve their lists and make strategic moves. As the 2026 season unfolds, the focus is on finding value and making strategic moves. Personally, I think that the trade market is a fascinating environment, where the potential for big moves and surprising outcomes is always present. What makes this particularly fascinating is the potential for a big impact, but also the risk of a disappointing performance.
