The West Coast Eagles' prized number one draft pick, Harley Reid, is sending clear signals that he is preparing to elevate his game to new heights. Observations from the club's recent training sessions suggest the young star is building a platform for a significant leap in the 2026 AFL season.
From Promising Rookie to Emerging Leader
While the 2025 campaign is the immediate focus, the groundwork for Harley Reid's future dominance is being laid right now. Club insiders and keen observers at training have noted a maturation in his approach that goes beyond raw talent. Reid, who took out the 2024 AFL Rising Star award, is no longer just the exciting new kid; he is evolving into a central pillar of the Eagles' rebuild.
One of the most telling signs is his increased vocal presence on the track. Reid is now consistently directing traffic, organising teammates, and providing encouragement during drills. This shift from a quiet contributor to an emerging leader demonstrates a growing comfort with his role and stature within the squad. He is beginning to own his space, both physically and as a voice of influence.
Physical Development and Tactical Smarts
The physical transformation is equally notable. Entering his third pre-season, Reid's body has visibly filled out, adding the strength required to withstand the constant attention of opposition taggers and hardened midfield bulls. This added power complements his explosive speed and agility, making him an even more formidable contested ball winner.
Furthermore, his work rate in repeat effort drills has caught the eye of coaches. Reid is pushing himself to the limit in conditioning sessions, showing an understanding that elite endurance is non-negotiable for a modern midfielder who wants to impact games for all four quarters. This dedication to the less glamorous side of football is a hallmark of players destined for greatness.
Tactically, Reid is engaging more deeply with senior coaches and analysts. He is often seen in deep discussion after drills, dissecting his positioning and decision-making. This proactive approach to learning suggests a player hungry to refine his game and eliminate weaknesses, moving from instinctual talent to a calculated, intelligent operator.
Setting the Stage for a 2026 Breakout
The significance of these developments points squarely towards the 2026 season. By that point, Reid will have close to 50 games of AFL experience under his belt, combined with several full pre-seasons to build his engine and physique. The subtle clues seen now—the leadership, the physical development, the tactical curiosity—are the building blocks for a player ready to dominate.
For the West Coast Eagles, Reid's progression is the cornerstone of their long-term strategy. His ability to transition from a star-in-waiting to a genuine match-winner and leader will directly influence the speed and success of the club's resurgence. The investment in his development, and his clear response to it, offers immense hope for fans who have endured a difficult period.
The evidence from the training track is compelling: Harley Reid is not resting on his Rising Star laurels. He is putting in the work required to transcend his rookie status and become one of the competition's premier midfield forces. While 2025 will be another crucial learning year, all signs indicate that 2026 is being circled as the season where Harley Reid truly announces himself on the AFL's biggest stage.
