“Difference-maker”: Russell’s recruit of the year prediction

Dwayne Russell has predicted who he believes could be the AFL’s best recruit in season 2026.

There is no tangible recruit of the year award but the topic of the best addition from the trade period is often discussed throughout each campaign.

Russell was asked via the text machine who he believes will be the recruit of the year for this season.

His answer: “I think it’s got to be the difference-maker. To me in my eyes right now it’s Charlie Curnow.

“Sydney finished 10th last year - I think they can win the flag this year with Charlie Curnow.

“I think they could jump 10 ladder spots without it being a massive surprise.”

Russell did throw out a few other possibilities before settling on the prized Swans recruit.

“But if Christian Petracca gets best on ground in a Gold Coast Grand Final win then it’s probably going to be him,” he added.

“Or if it’s Jamarra Ugle-Hagan...

“Imagine if Clayton Oliver was best on ground in the Giants’ first ever Grand Final win. He would be the recruit of the year.

“It could be Will Hayward if Carlton becomes a contender.

“There are a lot of players if they’re able to take their team to the next level (will be recruit of the year).

“The obvious one and no-brainer for me is Curnow. He’s fit at the moment, the SCG is going to suit him, they’ve got great kickers.”

Curnow joined the Swans from Carlton in a mammoth trade last October.

He will pull on the red and white after kicking 313 goals in 149 outings for the Blues, including two Coleman Medals (2022 and 2023) and five leading goal kicker awards.