Tessa Lee, Sports journalist reporting on global leagues since 2021.
Nick Daicos is emerging as the leading contender for the 2026 Brownlow Medal after producing the most dominant football of his young AFL career. The Collingwood superstar has elevated his game to another level through the opening 14 rounds of the season, strengthening expectations that he could finally secure the first Brownlow Medal of what many believe will be a decorated career. At just 23 years of age, Daicos is already building a résumé that places him among the competition’s elite midfielders and potentially on a path toward AFL history.
After finishing third in Brownlow voting in 2023 and runner up in both 2024 and 2025, Daicos appears well positioned to take the next step this season.
Numbers Reaching New Heights
The statistics behind Daicos’ 2026 campaign are extraordinary.
Through 13 games, the Collingwood midfielder has recorded 30 or more disposals in 11 matches. The only occasions he failed to reach that mark resulted in totals of 28 and 29 possessions.
His consistency has been remarkable, with six matches featuring at least 35 disposals and three games producing more than 40 touches.
The offensive side of his game has also improved. Daicos has kicked six goals so far this season, already doubling the total he managed at the same stage last year.
When compared to his 2025 campaign, the progression becomes even more impressive. At the same point last season, he had reached 30 disposals only six times and accumulated 16 Brownlow votes.
This year, his influence has become even greater despite increased opposition attention.
Coaches Recognition Reflects Dominance
While Brownlow discussions have largely focused on several high profile midfielders across the competition, Daicos currently leads the AFL Coaches Association Player of the Year award.
He holds a five vote advantage over Western Bulldogs captain Marcus Bontempelli, underlining the respect he commands from opposing coaches and match committees.
Former Collingwood player Dale Thomas believes Daicos could already have established a significant lead in Brownlow calculations.
Thomas described the midfielder’s numbers as being well beyond the standard expected even from elite players and suggested Daicos has not received enough recognition in broader player of the year conversations.
The former Magpie argued that Daicos is finally on course to receive the league’s highest individual honour.
Praise From Across the AFL
AFL commentator Kane Cornes has also backed Daicos as a deserving Brownlow contender.
Cornes acknowledged that criticism occasionally follows high profile stars but argued that much of the negativity directed toward Daicos stems from envy of his talent and success.
According to Cornes, one of Daicos’ greatest strengths is his consistency.
Unlike many midfielders who fluctuate between dominant and quiet performances, Daicos rarely produces a poor game. Even on less influential days, he remains among his team's better performers.
Cornes described him as effectively untaggable and highlighted his ability to maintain a high standard regardless of opposition tactics.
That reliability is often a key factor in Brownlow Medal voting, where consistent excellence throughout an entire season is rewarded.
Collingwood’s Position Could Be a Factor
One potential obstacle in Daicos’ Brownlow pursuit is Collingwood’s position on the ladder.
The Magpies have won six of their first 14 games and currently sit outside the competition’s leading group. Historically, players from teams near the top of the ladder often attract more Brownlow votes due to their involvement in victories.
However, modern voting trends have increasingly rewarded standout individual performances regardless of team success.
Umpires now have access to post match statistics before finalizing votes, meaning Daicos’ exceptional numbers are difficult to ignore.
Even in losses, his impact frequently places him among the best players on the ground.
Chasing AFL History
Beyond the possibility of winning his first Brownlow Medal, there is growing discussion about what Daicos could achieve over the course of his career.
Only four players in VFL and AFL history have won three Brownlow Medals: Haydn Bunton Sr, Dick Reynolds, Bob Skilton and Ian Stewart.
Joining that group would require sustained excellence over many years, but Daicos’ early achievements suggest such ambitions are realistic.
At 23, he has already recorded a third place finish and two runner up results. Few players have begun their careers with such consistent Brownlow contention.
Collingwood has also adjusted its internal best and fairest voting system after debate surrounding last season’s result, when Daicos finished second despite his outstanding campaign. The change reflects broader recognition of his influence within the club.
While there is still a long way to go in the 2026 season, Daicos has placed himself firmly at the front of the Brownlow race. If he maintains his current level of performance, the game's most prestigious individual award may finally be heading to one of the AFL’s brightest stars.
