The Carlton Blues coaching vacancy has ignited fresh speculation about the future of two of the AFL’s most experienced minds, John Longmire and Adam Simpson, as the club’s search for a replacement for the departing Michael Voss enters a critical phase. With Voss’s resignation marking the first major coaching change of the 2026 season, the Blues have turned to interim coach Josh Fraser to steer the team for the remainder of the year. Meanwhile, Longmire and Simpson—both seen as top candidates for the permanent role—have offered measured, if non-committal, responses to the growing interest in their potential return to the hot seat.
For Longmire, the decision is far from straightforward. The former Sydney Swans coach, who stepped down after the club’s 2024 Grand Final loss to Brisbane, has made it clear that any return to coaching would require careful consideration. Speaking on AFL 360, he emphasized that such choices are not made lightly. “It’s not a simple yes or no answer,” Longmire said. “For me, these things tend to become clear over a period of time. I’m happy to let that time play out.” His reluctance to provide a definitive answer reflects a broader hesitation, one that acknowledges the complexity of the role and the need for alignment across all key positions at any club.
Longmire’s perspective is shaped by his 14 years at the Sydney Swans, a tenure that gave him a deep understanding of what makes a sustainable and successful football club. “Those things—alignment across all the key people in the footy club—are really important,” he noted. “It’s a big job, and whoever is going to jump into any coaching role needs to be sure it’s the right fit.” His measured approach underscores the weight of the decision, both personally and professionally, as he considers whether the time is right to return to full-time coaching.
Adam Simpson, the 2018 Eagles premiership coach, has also weighed in—though his response is equally cautious. Currently working as a part-time coaching consultant at Ikon Park, Simpson made it clear that his current answer is a firm “no.” However, he left the door ajar for the future. “Today is a no, but what’s it like in 10, 14, 15 weeks?” he mused. “It’s weird to say, because people think there is an answer coming straight away, yes or no. But it’s a big decision.” Simpson’s reflection highlights the multifaceted nature of such choices, balancing availability, the right fit, and personal circumstances.
Carlton’s Interim Solution and the Road Ahead
With Voss’s departure, Carlton has appointed Josh Fraser as interim coach, a move that provides stability for the remainder of the 2026 season. Fraser’s appointment comes as the club navigates a pivotal moment, with the Blues now focused on securing a long-term solution for 2027 and beyond. The interim arrangement allows the club to assess its options while maintaining on-field momentum, though the search for a permanent coach remains a priority.
The Blues’ decision will hinge on finding a coach who can not only deliver on-field success but also foster the necessary alignment and culture within the club. For Longmire and Simpson, the question of whether to return to coaching is one that transcends the immediate opportunity. Both men have emphasized the importance of being in the right place at the right time, with the right support structure in place. As Longmire put it, “I’m not into dealing with hypotheticals at the moment. I’ll let time play out.”
What’s Next for Carlton and the Coaching Market?
The Carlton Blues’ search for a new coach comes at a time of flux in the AFL coaching market. With multiple clubs potentially eyeing off experienced hands, the next few months will be critical in determining which way the wind blows for Longmire and Simpson. For now, both men are content to let the process unfold, trusting that clarity will come with time.
As the season progresses, the focus will remain on Carlton’s performance under Fraser’s interim leadership, while the broader coaching market watches closely. The Blues’ next steps—including potential interviews and official announcements—will be closely scrutinized, with the 2027 season looming as the next major checkpoint for the club’s future direction.
For fans and stakeholders alike, the coming weeks will provide further insight into whether Longmire or Simpson will ultimately answer the call from Carlton. Until then, the story of the Blues’ coaching search is one of patience, reflection, and the quiet confidence that the right decision will emerge when the time is right.
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Carlton have first run out without Voss:
McRae dismisses links with Carlton:
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