Breann Harrington to Miss 2026 AFLW Season as Carlton Game Turns

Breann Harrington will miss the Carlton game plan for the 2026 AFLW season after announcing that she and her husband Brad are expecting their first child. Carlton now heads into the campaign with one remaining list spot, while the ruck’s absence removes a player with 93 games at the highest level since 2017.

Harrington and Brad

Harrington said the change will alter her year on and off the field. “We’re incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received as we prepare to welcome our first child together,” she said in the club announcement.

She added that “While this year will look different for us and it’ll be sad not running out with my teammates week in, week out, I’m excited to support the group in a different capacity this year.” Harrington also said, “Brad and I are really excited for this new chapter in our lives and can’t wait to welcome a new Blues supporter.”

Mathew Buck on Carlton

Mathew Buck said the club was pleased for the couple and that Harrington would stay involved with the program. “We couldn’t be happier for them, and we wish them nothing but the very best as they begin this exciting new chapter together this year,” the Carlton AFLW Senior Coach said.

Buck also said, “She will undoubtedly remain an integral part of our program throughout the season, continuing to support the team in various ways,” which leaves Carlton with a veteran presence even as it reshapes the list around her absence.

93 Games Since 2017

The list impact is immediate. Carlton said it will have one remaining list spot heading into the upcoming AFLW season, so the club can still make one more move as it finalizes its squad.

Harrington’s record gives that move extra weight. Since 2017, the inaugural Blue has played 93 games at the highest level, and Carlton will have to replace that experience without her running out in 2026.

For Carlton, the key change is simple: one less active player, one more vacancy to manage, and one experienced ruck staying around the program while missing the season on the field.