Fremantle's Justin Longmuir Likely to Replace Sydney's Dean Cox for AFL Origin

Fremantle's Justin Longmuir is anticipated to succeed Sydney's Dean Cox as the coach of the Western Australian team for the AFL Origin match scheduled for February next year.

Cox was initially selected to lead the team following the successful exhibition match against Victoria at Optus Stadium. The AFL aims to rotate coaches for these events, and Longmuir may also have the chance to coach against South Australia.

Longmuir nearly secured a premiership for Fremantle after a narrow loss to Brisbane in the Grand Final. He has previously led the Dockers to their first premiership in 2026 and was recognized as the AFLCA Senior Coach of the Year. Meanwhile, South Australia is expected to appoint Collingwood's Craig McRae as their coach for the upcoming clash. The final coaching decisions will be announced in November, with player selections to follow ahead of the match on February 27.