Bulldogs Face Mixed Bag of Injury News as Pre-Season Takes Shape
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The Western Bulldogs are navigating a complex pre-season landscape, with several key players recovering from injuries while others demonstrate promising early form. The team is preparing for the 2026 AFL season amidst a wave of rehabilitation and renewed hope for veteran stars.
Sanders & Treloar Highlight Early Pre-Season Developments
Ryley Sanders, the promising young midfielder, is currently working through a hamstring strain sustained late last month. Despite the setback, the 2023 draft pick had previously impressed coaches with his fitness, finishing third in the first 2km time-trial. He is anticipated to be back to full fitness before the Bulldogs’ Christmas break next week.
In contrast, veteran Adam Treloar is enjoying a strong start to the pre-season after a 2025 campaign hampered by injuries. The 32-year-old, a 2024 All-Australian, was limited to a career-low four senior games last year due to persistent calf issues. However, a successful stint with Footscray in the VFL – culminating in a premiership win – earned him another contract for 2026. “He’s carried his late-season momentum through the off-season,” a team source confirmed.
Shoulder Reconstructions & Recovery Timelines
Several Bulldogs underwent shoulder reconstructions at the end of the 2025 season, including reigning Charles Sutton Medal winner Ed Richards, and key forwards Sam Darcy and Aaron Naughton. Darcy and Richards are already participating in modified training programs and are expected to be back in full training by January. Naughton is progressing well and is not far behind.
Young defender Jedd Busslinger also had shoulder reconstruction surgery following the VFL Grand Final and is targeting full contact training by the pre-season camp on the Sunshine Coast in early February. The 2022 first-round pick played seven senior games in 2025 before requiring a third shoulder reconstruction.
New Faces & Emerging Talent
The Bulldogs are also integrating new recruits and assessing the development of emerging talent. Father-son selection Will Darcy, drafted with pick No.60 in the 2025 AFL Telstra Draft, is currently in the rehab group recovering from a back injury.
Two-time All-Australian Bailey Dale has fully recovered from a broken wrist sustained in August. New arrival Connor Budarick has quickly settled into the team, making a positive impression in defense. Cooper Hynes, Josh Dolan, Arty Jones, and Joel Freijah are also reportedly excelling during early training sessions.
Weightman’s Road to Recovery & Ongoing Management
Small forward Cody Weightman is not yet training with the main group, but is showing encouraging signs after a challenging 2025. The 24-year-old was sidelined for the entire season due to complications from a damaged kneecap, requiring five separate surgeries. He has been meticulously managed throughout the off-season and will continue to be closely monitored as he works towards a return early in the next season.
The Bulldogs’ pre-season presents a blend of challenges and opportunities, with the team focused on getting key players back to full fitness and integrating new talent as they prepare for the 2026 AFL season.
