AFL Ladder 2025 Predictions Who Will Be On Top

Hey footy fans! It's that time again – time to gaze into our crystal balls and try to predict the AFL ladder for 2025. While it's impossible to know for sure what the future holds in the unpredictable world of Aussie Rules, we can analyze team performance, player movements, coaching changes, and emerging talent to make some educated guesses. So, let's dive in and discuss which teams are likely to be premiership contenders and where they might land on the ladder.

Early Predictions for the Top 4

Predicting the top four in the AFL is always a thrilling challenge, and for 2025, the landscape looks incredibly competitive. Topping the list, we've got the usual suspects and a few teams on the rise who are hungry for premiership glory.

First up, let's talk about the Geelong Cats. They’ve been a powerhouse for years, and with their veteran core still firing and some exciting young talent emerging, it’s hard to see them dropping off too much. Their ability to consistently contend is remarkable, and their strong culture and coaching set-up make them a perennial threat. Expect them to be right up there, battling for a top-four spot once again. The Cats have a knack for defying expectations, and their experience in big games is invaluable. They've managed to stay competitive even with retirements and injuries, a testament to their deep list and strong development program. Key players will need to stay healthy, but if they do, Geelong will be a force to be reckoned with.

Then there's the Collingwood Magpies. After a strong showing recently, the Pies have proven they have the talent and determination to compete with the best. Their midfield is stacked, and their forward line has the potential to be devastating. A lot will depend on their ability to maintain consistency throughout the season, but if they can, they'll be a serious contender. Collingwood's passionate fan base also gives them a significant boost, turning their home games into intimidating affairs for opponents. Their coaching staff has implemented a game plan that maximizes their strengths, and their players have bought in wholeheartedly. Keeping their key players fit and firing will be crucial, but the Magpies have the ingredients to challenge for the top four.

Next, we have the Brisbane Lions. They've been building something special up in Queensland, and their recent form suggests they're ready to take the next step. With a potent forward line and a strong midfield, the Lions have the firepower to outscore most teams. The key for them will be tightening up their defense and performing consistently away from home. Brisbane's home ground advantage at the Gabba is undeniable, but they need to prove they can win on the road against top teams. Their young stars are developing rapidly, and their experienced players provide crucial leadership. If they can put it all together, the Lions could be a genuine premiership threat.

Finally, don't count out the Melbourne Demons. They had a minor premiership not too long ago and still boast one of the most talented lists in the competition. Their midfield is elite, and their defense is rock solid. However, they need to find more avenues to goal and improve their consistency. The Demons have the potential to dominate games, but they need to bring that intensity week in and week out. Their coaching staff will be looking for ways to unlock their attacking potential and ensure they can score heavily when needed. With a few tweaks and a renewed focus, Melbourne can easily bounce back and contend for a top-four spot.

These four teams represent a good mix of experience and emerging talent. Of course, injuries, form slumps, and unexpected performances can all shake things up, but as it stands, these are the teams to watch closely for a top-four finish in 2025.

Mid-Tier Mayhem: Teams Vying for a Finals Berth

The middle of the AFL ladder is where things get really interesting. It's a dogfight for those coveted finals spots, with several teams showing promise and potential. Let's break down some of the teams that could be battling it out for a place in the top eight in 2025. The competition is fierce, and consistency will be key for any team looking to break into the finals.

First up, we have the Carlton Blues. They've been on the rise, and their fans are hungry for finals action. With a strong midfield and some exciting young forwards, the Blues have the pieces to compete. However, they need to improve their defensive consistency and close out tight games. Carlton's passionate supporters will be expecting a big year, and the pressure will be on the team to deliver. Their coach will need to find the right balance between attack and defense to ensure they can compete with the top teams. If they can put it all together, the Blues could be a dark horse in the finals race.

Next, let's talk about the Sydney Swans. They're always a tough, well-coached team, and their Academy system continues to produce top talent. The Swans have a good mix of experience and youth, but they need to find more scoring power up forward. Their midfield is strong, but they need their forwards to step up and kick goals consistently. Sydney's culture of hard work and determination is a major asset, and they'll be looking to make the finals once again. Their ability to develop young players is second to none, and they'll be hoping some of their rising stars can make an impact in 2025.

Then there's the Western Bulldogs. They have a talented list, but they've struggled with consistency in recent years. The Bulldogs have the firepower to score heavily, but their defense needs to be more reliable. Their midfield is packed with stars, but they need to find a way to play as a more cohesive unit. The Bulldogs have the potential to be a top-four team, but they need to put it all together on a consistent basis. Their coach will be looking for ways to get the best out of their talented squad and ensure they're playing their best football when it matters most.

The Essendon Bombers are another team to watch. They've been rebuilding, but they have some exciting young players coming through. The Bombers need to add more experience to their list, but they have the potential to surprise a few teams. Their fans are patient, but they'll be eager to see some progress in 2025. Essendon's focus will be on developing their young talent and building a strong team culture. If they can do that, they'll be well-placed to challenge for a finals spot in the coming years.

These teams will likely be in the mix for a finals berth, but the competition is so tight that any of them could rise or fall depending on form, injuries, and luck. The mid-tier battle will be fascinating to watch unfold throughout the 2025 season.

The Rebuilding Brigade: Teams Looking to the Future

Not every team can be a contender every year. Some teams are in the midst of a rebuild, focusing on developing young talent and building for the future. These teams might not be challenging for a premiership in 2025, but they'll be looking to show signs of progress and lay the foundation for future success. Let's take a look at some of the teams in this category.

The Hawthorn Hawks are in a full-scale rebuild under their new coach. They've traded away some experienced players and are focusing on giving opportunities to their young talent. The Hawks will likely endure some tough losses in 2025, but their fans will be looking for signs of improvement and glimpses of the future. Hawthorn's focus will be on developing their young players and instilling a strong team culture. They have a proud history, and they'll be determined to return to the top of the ladder in the coming years.

The North Melbourne Kangaroos have been near the bottom of the ladder for a while, and they're still searching for their next wave of stars. The Kangaroos have some promising young players, but they need to add more talent to their list. They'll be hoping their top draft picks can make an immediate impact, but it will likely be a long road back to contention. North Melbourne's supporters are passionate, and they'll be hoping to see some positive signs in 2025. Their coach will be working hard to develop their young players and build a team that can compete with the best.

Then there's the West Coast Eagles. They've fallen from grace after their recent premiership success, and they're now in a rebuilding phase. The Eagles have a lot of work to do to get back into contention, but they have a strong supporter base and a proud history. West Coast will be looking to add some top talent through the draft and develop their young players. Their coach will be aiming to create a positive environment and build a team that can compete with the best in the future.

These teams may not be challenging for a finals spot in 2025, but they'll be working hard to develop their young players and build a foundation for future success. Rebuilding takes time and patience, but these teams will be hoping to see some positive signs in 2025.

The Wildcards: Teams That Could Surprise Us

In every AFL season, there are always a few teams that surprise us – either by exceeding expectations or falling short. These wildcard teams can make the competition even more unpredictable and exciting. So, which teams could be the surprise packets of 2025?

The Fremantle Dockers have been building a young, exciting list, and they could be ready to take the next step. The Dockers have some talented midfielders and forwards, and their defense is improving. If they can stay healthy and play with consistency, they could surprise a few teams. Fremantle's fans are passionate, and they'll be hoping to see their team in the finals. Their coach has instilled a strong work ethic, and their players are hungry for success. The Dockers could be a team to watch in 2025.

The Gold Coast Suns have been promising for years, but they haven't quite lived up to their potential. The Suns have some top-end talent, but they need to find more consistency and resilience. If they can put it all together, they could surprise a few teams. Gold Coast's supporters are eager to see their team make the finals, and the pressure will be on the Suns to deliver. Their coach will be looking for ways to get the best out of their talented squad and ensure they're playing their best football when it matters most.

These wildcard teams have the potential to shake up the AFL ladder in 2025. Whether they rise to the occasion or fall short remains to be seen, but they'll certainly be worth watching.

Final Thoughts: The 2025 AFL Season

Predicting the AFL ladder is always a tough task, but that's what makes it so much fun! The 2025 season promises to be another exciting year of footy, with plenty of twists and turns along the way. While the Geelong Cats, Collingwood Magpies, Brisbane Lions, and Melbourne Demons look like early contenders for the top four, there are plenty of other teams that could challenge. The mid-tier battle will be intense, and the rebuilding teams will be looking to show signs of progress. And of course, there will be a few wildcard teams that surprise us along the way.

So, there you have it – my early predictions for the 2025 AFL season. What do you guys think? Which teams do you think will be contending for the premiership, and who will be the big surprises? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below! It's going to be a cracking season, and I can't wait to see how it all unfolds. Remember, footy is unpredictable, and that's part of what makes it so great. Let's buckle up and enjoy the ride!