The Back Pocket

Will be writing semi-frequently for This Week In Football again this year, and I encourage you to check it out and subscribe to the newsletter for weekly articles from some of the most insightful and smartest voices not just in independent footy writing, but in the enture AFL media landscape.

Read my thoughts on the AFL's changes to the Brownlow Medal (along with some historical context), two great pieces from Emlyn Breese - first on the Dees and Saints, and how they've changed their game in 2026, and second on some new data modelling to expect this season - and also Joe Cordy writing about elite footballers, and what makes them so hard to replace or replicate.

Round 2, 2026 – This Week In Football This Week In Football is a collection of some of the best in football currently outside the walls of AFL clubs or broadcasters. Each week a curated grab bag from regular contributors and special guests will provide insight into and beyond the game on subjects of their choosing. For more about our c...