What a massive weekend of footy we have on the horizon for Round 8! ANZAC weekend delivered in spades and we’re ready to keep the momentum rolling with a fresh set of Kate’s Bolters to help you find value and the players to watch in round 8’s footy action.

We're almost a third of the way into the 2026 season and the cream is starting to rise to the top. We’ve been diving into the data, checking the rotations, and keeping a keen eye on the injury ward to see which players are primed for a big performance this weekend.

From the high-pressure cauldron of the Adelaide Showdown to the spoon-bowl between Richmond and Hawthorn, there are spicy narratives building in Round 8’s footy.

Whether you’re looking for a rising star ready to explode or a small forward in vintage form, we’ve got you covered.

For the inside lane on players to watch in the AFL, check out expert Round 8 analysis by Kate McCarthy below.

AFL’s Best Players to Watch in Round 8

Jason Horne-Francis - Port Adelaide

When it comes to the Showdown, you want to look toward the Port Adelaide engine room.

The Power have been the most restrictive team in the league this season when it comes to opposition midfielders, so I'm steering clear of the Crows' ball-getters and backing the Hornet to sting.

Jason Horne-Francis has seen a massive spike in his usage lately; while he's averaged a 50% CBA (Centre Bounce Attendance) rate across the season, that jumped to 70% last week against Geelong.

He’s currently averaging 29.3 disposals over his last three weeks and coming off a monster 34-disposal game. With his power and increased time in the guts, I like him as best on ground in the Showdown.

Betting tip: Jason Horne-Francis 30+ disposals.

Jobe Shanahan - West Coast Eagles

The Baby Eagles are finding their wings and Jobe Shanahan is one of the young talls I'm most excited about.

The 19-year-old has already kicked four goals this season and looked dangerous last week, finishing with 1.2 from three shots on goal.

With the opposition's number one defender almost certainly going to Jake Waterman, Shanahan is going to get the second-best matchup every single time.

He has the height and the hands to dominate in the air, and I think this is the week he bags a few.

Betting tip: Jobe Shanahan 3+ goals.

Hugo Garcia - St Kilda

Keep a very close eye on Hugo Garcia as the Saints prepare for Saturday night. The stats tell a clear story for Garcia in 2026: in Saints wins, he averages a hefty 26.3 disposals, but that drops to just 18 in losses.

I’m tipping St Kilda to get the job done comfortably this weekend, which sets the table for a Garcia masterclass.

He’s been in great touch lately, averaging 27.3 disposals over his last three games. If the Saints control the tempo as expected, look for him to clear the 26+ mark with ease.

Betting tip: Hugo Garcia 26+ disposals.

Charlie Cameron - Brisbane Lions

King Charles is officially back to his brilliant best. After a slightly quiet start to the year, the Lions' legend has found his groove, slotting three goals and four goals respectively over the past two weeks.

Brisbane love the fast track at Marvel Stadium and Charlie is the kind of player who can tear a game open in a 10-minute burst.

Charlie’s in form, get down to Marvel and enjoy the show this Saturday.

Betting tip: Charlie Cameron 3+ goals.

Odds are subject to change.*