As the Australian Football League gears up for the 2026 season, Western Australian fans have a unique and thrilling narrative to follow: the rise of two young stars, both named Reid, poised to become the cornerstones of their rival clubs. For the West Coast Eagles, it's Harley Reid. For the Fremantle Dockers, it's Murphy Reid. Their parallel journeys are set to define the football landscape in the west.
Harley Reid: West Coast's Beacon of Hope
The sight of a fully fit Harley Reid attacking the pre-season has injected a dose of optimism into West Coast Eagles supporters, desperate for an improved campaign. Reid exploded onto the AFL scene in his debut 2024 season, creating a frenzy of excitement. While his second year didn't quite meet the stratospheric expectations set, the belief remains strong that 2026 could be the season he cements himself as a genuine league superstar.
Now embarking on his second full pre-season, Reid has returned in outstanding physical condition, looking to build on his already impressive career tally of 39 games. His career averages – 19 disposals, four tackles, and five clearances per game – provide a solid foundation for greater things.
Brownlow Medallist and former Eagles captain Ben Cousins is among those predicting a breakout third year for the young gun. "I'm excited to see the benefits of an uninterrupted pre-season, which is important for everyone," Cousins told The West Australian. "When you've got his ability, it will complement the power and strength that he's got. With his ability to have an impact in games, it's really exciting."
A significant off-field development has also settled the waters around Reid. He has signed a two-year contract extension, tying him to West Coast until at least the end of 2027, despite strong interest from Victorian clubs. Cousins believes ending the speculation will be crucial for Reid's on-field development as he aims to drag the Eagles up the ladder.
Murphy Reid: Fremantle's Rising Star
Murphy Reid's path to stardom was markedly different. Surprisingly overlooked by a dozen clubs, the Sandringham Dragons product was happily snapped up by Fremantle with pick No. 17 in the 2024 draft. Doubts lingered about whether the teenager could break into a Dockers side with finals aspirations, but he silenced all critics in spectacular fashion.
In just six electrifying minutes during the third quarter of his debut against Geelong, Murphy Reid booted four goals, announcing himself as a future star. He went on to play every game in his debut season, clinching the Rising Star award and finishing with 25 goals from 24 games, averaging 14 disposals.
Now 19, the challenge is to prove his stunning first year was no fluke and to become a key figure in Fremantle's quest for a maiden premiership. Forwards coach Jaymie Graham is confident, citing Reid's mature return to training. "We've been really impressed with the way he's returned," Graham said. "He's shown a lot of maturity... his body shape has definitely changed. He's put on a bit of strength. I don't think Murphy will get complacent."
Midfield Futures and Club Ambitions
The potential evolution of both Reids adds another layer of intrigue. While Murphy spent his debut year predominantly as a forward, Ben Cousins sees a midfield future. "I'm really impressed with the way he sees the game... For a first-year player I've been really impressed," Cousins noted, suggesting a move could happen as soon as 2026, bolstering an already powerful Fremantle engine room featuring Caleb Serong and Andy Brayshaw.
Jaymie Graham agrees that Murphy will develop his midfield craft but emphasised his team-first attitude. "He will train both roles this pre-season and... he will play wherever is required," Graham stated.
For Harley Reid at West Coast, the mission is clear: leverage his full pre-season and newfound stability to become the consistent match-winner the club needs. For Murphy Reid at Fremantle, it's about building on a dream debut and avoiding the second-year blues to drive the Dockers deeper into September.
As the new year unfolds, the fortunes of two clubs and the excitement of a football state will be intrinsically linked to the progress of two young men sharing a famous surname. The Reid era in Western Australian football is well and truly underway.
