In AFL Fantasy and SuperCoach, few players have captured the attention of coaches quite like Bailey Dale over the past few seasons. As we head into 2026, Dale’s place in your defensive line deserves serious consideration, but the decision isn’t as straightforward as it once was. Let me walk you through why Dale remains relevant and what you need to weigh up before committing to him.

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Bailey Dale has consistently proven himself as a top tier defender, with impressive stats that make him a valuable asset in fantasy lineups. In 2025, Dale boasted a 102.5 average in SuperCoach and 92 in AFL Fantasy, showcasing his ability to deliver solid scores when it matters most.

That SuperCoach average of 102.5 puts him firmly in premium defender territory. In AFL Fantasy, the 92 average is good but not elite. That gap between the two formats tells you something important about how his game translates to fantasy scoring.

His defensive eligibility combined with his knack for big plays makes him a standout choice for coaches looking to bolster their backline. He’s got the consistency of a premium with the occasional ceiling game that can win you a week.

Dale’s success isn’t just about raw numbers. It’s about how he fits into the Western Bulldogs’ game plan. The Bulldogs have long been a fantasy friendly team, and Dale’s role in their lineup is crucial.

As a key player in the Bulldogs’ offensive strategy, Dale is often the go-to for kick ins and handball receives. That makes him a reliable source of points week after week. He’s not relying on goals or contested marks to score. He’s accumulating through volume and ball movement.

His ability to read the game and execute plays with precision sets him apart from other defenders. When the Bulldogs are rebounding from defence, Dale is almost always involved. That consistent involvement is exactly what you want from a fantasy defender.

For fantasy coaches, the decision to include Dale in their starting lineup requires some strategic thinking. His potential for high scores is there, but so are some legitimate concerns.

First, his age and role security. Dale is entering his 30s, and while he’s shown no signs of decline, you need to consider whether the Bulldogs start managing his workload or transitioning younger players into his role. There’s been no indication of that happening, but it’s something to monitor.

Second, his price point. In SuperCoach, if he’s priced around that 102 average, you’re paying full freight for a defender who might not have significant upside left. In AFL Fantasy at 92, there’s potentially more value if you believe he can push back towards 95 to 98.

Third, competition for his role. The Bulldogs have developed some young talent, and while Dale remains the primary rebounding defender, any shift in game plan or personnel could impact his scoring.

If you’re building a defensive line that prioritises safety and consistency, Dale absolutely deserves consideration. He’s proven he can deliver week after week. He’s durable, rarely missing games. His role is secure for now.

The Western Bulldogs are a good team, which means they’ll spend plenty of time with the ball. That creates scoring opportunities for Dale. When your team is winning and controlling possession, your defenders rack up uncontested marks and effective disposals. That’s Dale’s bread and butter.

In SuperCoach particularly, that 102 average makes him a legitimate premium defender. You could do a lot worse than locking him in and forgetting about that position for the year.

The counterargument is that Dale doesn’t offer the upside that some other defenders might provide. He’s established. You know what you’re getting. But that ceiling probably sits around 110 to 115, not 120 plus.

If you’re chasing league winning upside, there might be younger defenders with more explosive potential. Players who could break out and average 105 to 110 while being priced 10 to 15 points cheaper.

In AFL Fantasy especially, that 92 average doesn’t scream must have premium. There are defenders who scored similarly or better who might come at better value or with more growth potential.

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Dale’s preseason form will be telling. You want to see him completing full training sessions, looking sharp in practice matches, and maintaining his role as the primary rebounder.

Pay attention to how the Bulldogs structure their defence. Are they still relying heavily on Dale to initiate their attack? Or are they spreading that responsibility around more? The answer shapes his fantasy relevance.

Also watch for any tactical changes under the coaching staff. If the Bulldogs shift to a more contested, inside 50 focused game plan, that could reduce Dale’s disposal numbers and hurt his scoring.

Bailey Dale’s impact on AFL Fantasy and SuperCoach is undeniable. With his impressive stats, strategic gameplay, and proven track record of consistent performance, he’s a player that every coach should seriously consider.

In SuperCoach, he’s a legitimate premium defender who’ll deliver 100 plus every week with minimal fuss. In AFL Fantasy, he’s a solid option but perhaps not the home run pick he once was.

The key is understanding what you need from your defensive line. If you want safety, consistency, and a guy who’ll be there all year, Dale fits perfectly. If you want explosive upside and league winning potential, you might find better options elsewhere.

As you prepare for the 2026 season, make sure to keep Dale on your radar. He might not be the flashiest pick, but sometimes the best fantasy decisions are the boring ones that just work week after week.

That’s exactly what Bailey Dale provides.