Fremantle utility Luke Jackson says he’s ready to tackle any role in 2026.
Speaking to the media on Friday afternoon following Fremantle’s 18v18, the 24-year-old said he enjoys the flexibility to play in multiple areas.
Jackson started as a genuine midfielder while Sean Darcy and Mason Cox duelled it out in the ruck, with Jackson matching up on some of the Club’s already established mids, racking up possessions, and also pushing forward to kick a booming 50m goal late in the session.
"I like being able to play different roles and all across the ground,” Jackson said.
“I’ve still got heaps of learnings in that midfield role, but I like to help the team out anywhere.
“I’ve spent most of my time (this pre-season) just learning running patterns and there's a lot that goes into playing as an inside mid.
“I've got a lot of learning to do. I feel like ruck comes pretty naturally, and I'm still working on that as well, but predominantly midfield.
“I'm just learning off all the different players in there.”
Darcy played half of the 18v18 session and was busy early, taking several intercept marks across half back and around the ground, rewarding himself with a goal.
Cox worked his way into the game and started to get some ascendancy in the ruck.
can’t get rid of this guy 💜#foreverfreo pic.twitter.com/F85AhayJbH
— Fremantle Dockers (@freodockers) January 30, 2026
Freo’s tall timber will be one of the close watches in season 2026, with Josh Treacy, Jye Amiss and Pat Voss all getting amongst the goals on Friday.
Speaking on the upcoming AFL State of Origin match, Jackson expressed his excitement to represent his State.
“The challenge of going up against some of the best players in the company will only help my game, and I'll be able to take a lot of learnings out of it,” Jackson said.
“I don't know what to expect what it will be like.
“I'm looking forward to playing with guys like Crippa (Carlton and WA captain Patrick Cripps) and all the stars of the comp.”
Jackson concluded he was not yet born when AFL State of Origin was last played in 1999, but he’s done his research in the lead up to the February 14 clash.
Wharfie Time ⚓️ @freodockers pic.twitter.com/ZyquCVe16M
— 7AFL (@7AFL) January 29, 2026
“I like seeing YouTube clips of it, and they went pretty hard back then. So hopefully it's pretty similar,” Jackson said.
“There actually has been a little bit of a banter (among teammates), but I'm just looking forward to matching it with the best in the comp.
“I think it's great this year. Hopefully it can stay.”
Fremantle’s side will now enjoy a four-day break before returning to training on Wednesday 4 February.