Charles Sutton Medalist Ed Richards has enjoyed the best possible start to his 2026 campaign, polling a perfect 10 coaches' votes in Saturday's win over reigning premiers Brisbane. 

The star midfielder was one of four Bulldogs who caught the coaches' eyes during the Opening Round thriller, with Rory Lobb (three votes), Bailey Williams (three), and debutant Connor Budarick (one) all polling votes.

Richards' 30-disposal, two-goal outing sees him sit equal first with Nick Daicos, Justin McInerney, Christian Petracca and Jake Stringer, who all polled maximum votes in their respective Opening Round clashes.

AFLCA Champion Player of the Year Votes: Opening Round

10 Ed Richards (WB)
6 Charlie Cameron (BL)
4 Lachie Neale (BL)
3 Rory Lobb (WB)
3 Bailey Williams (WB)
2 Harris Andrews (BL)
1 Connor Budarick (WB)
1 Ryan Lester (BL)