The wait is over. Round 1 of the 2026 AFL season has arrived.

In this episode of Don The Stat, Jono and Humey preview Essendon’s season opener against Hawthorn.

After months of pre-season training, match simulations and practice games, we finally get our first real look at the Bombers when the points count.

The guys break down everything you need to know ahead of Friday night.

In this episode we cover:

It’s the first real test of the season, with three debutants, new roles across the ground and plenty of intrigue around how Essendon will look in 2026.

Can the Bombers take advantage of Hawthorn’s midfield vulnerabilities and start the season with a statement win?

Breaking down the Zach Merrett ‘Deal’ - https://www.donthestat.com/post/the-zach-merrett-trade-that-never-was

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