AFL 2026 Round 3 Team Tips: Injuries, Ins & Outs & Predicted Sides
Geelong will glance to continue their strong form when they host Adelaide at GMHBA Stadium on Thursday night, . The Cats, coming off a bye week, are expected to welcome back off-season recruit James Worpel from a finger infection, potentially creating a selection squeeze that could notice recent debutant Mitch Edwards or Jhye Clark sidelined.
The match is a rematch of a thrilling Gather Round encounter from , where Geelong overcame a 30-point deficit to defeat Adelaide 18.11 (119) to 15.10 (100). Patrick Dangerfield was instrumental in that victory, kicking four goals, while Jeremy Cameron and Dangerfield combined for eight majors in total. Bailey Smith collected the three Brownlow votes for his 35 disposals.
Adelaide, however, faces a more challenging situation heading into the contest. The club has confirmed that Callum Ah Chee will miss six to eight weeks with a high-grade hamstring strain sustained last week. Luke Nankervis is firming as a replacement on the wing, while Rory Laird is likely to be sidelined for one to two weeks with a calf issue. Josh Worrell is listed as a ‘test’ for the Crows.
Adding to Adelaide’s reshuffle, Finnbar Maley is set to craft his club debut, providing ruck support alongside Lachie McAndrew. Hugh Bond, who was a late withdrawal last week due to illness, is expected to retain his place in the side. The Crows are also monitoring the fitness of several players, including Jake Soligo and Toby Murray.
Elsewhere around the league, Round 3 presents several intriguing matchups. Collingwood hosts GWS Giants on at Marvel Stadium, with the Magpies potentially welcoming back skipper Darcy Moore and Jeremy Howe from injury. However, they may necessitate to address forward-half concerns with Jack Buller struggling to make an impact.
St Kilda will face Brisbane Lions at Marvel Stadium on , with the Saints hoping to build on their recent win. Anthony Caminiti’s hamstring injury will force a change to their lineup, potentially opening the door for Alix Tauru or Mattaes Phillipou. Brisbane, meanwhile, could see the return of Zac Bailey and Darcy Gardiner from suspension.
Fremantle will host Richmond at Optus Stadium on , with the Dockers facing a potential dilemma regarding the role of Sean Darcy. Mason Cox, recently available after a foot injury, could challenge for a spot in the ruck. Richmond, however, is reeling from injuries to Toby Nankervis and Tom Lynch, both of whom will be sidelined for an extended period.
Essendon faces a significant challenge against North Melbourne at Marvel Stadium on , following a disappointing loss. Changes are expected in the Bombers’ lineup, with several players pressing for selection in the VFL. North Melbourne, meanwhile, could see George Wardlaw return from a hamstring injury.
Port Adelaide will clash with West Coast Eagles at Adelaide Oval on . However, the Power have suffered a blow with captain Connor Rozee requiring surgery for a torn hamstring, expected to sideline him for 12 to 15 weeks. Miles Bergman is also out with an ankle injury.
Finally, Carlton will take on Melbourne at the MCG on . Carlton is set to regain several key players, including Adam Cerra, Matt Cottrell, and Frankie Evans, while Melbourne could see Daniel Turner replaced by Tom McDonald after Turner suffered a hand injury.
The Gold Coast Suns, Hawthorn, Sydney, and Western Bulldogs all have the bye this week.