It's hard to ignore the buzz around the Swinburne Centre as the first week of pre-season for 2026 pushes on.

For forward Rhyan Mansell, the expectation around the group for a promising season couldn't be bigger.

"Everyone's come back pretty refreshed. There's a lot of energy going into training the past week," he told Richmond Media.

"We are excited to see the side of games and practices matches. There's a good block coming up."

01:59

'Nailing the detail' - Mansell

Rhyan Mansell speaks to Richmond Media about pre-season returning and what to look out for in season 2026!

And while it's easy to see improvement from a fitness perspective across the board, Mansell believes it's hard to ignore two up-and-coming Tigers.

"Jasper Alger has come back in really good nick. His forward craft is going to be one to watch. So has Campbell Gray. His leadership and voice out on the field has been second-to-none," Mansell said.

"I'm excited to see what those two can do."

Mansell, who turns 26 in June, has quickly become a wise head amongst a young group of talented footballers. 

It's a responsibility he doesn't take lightly.

"Drafting a few smaller forwards and 18-year-olds, and last year's crop as well, can lean on my experience, and I can fast track them to the AFL, that's the goal," Mansell said.

Mansell already sees potential and confidence in the 2025 draftees, headlined by pace and hunger.

05:02

Sounds of The Track: Thursday grind

Watch along raw training vision as the boys hit the track for the first time in 2026

"They've all come in seamlessly. Obviously you've got (Sam) Grlj who has come in really hot. He is fast and full on and I'm sure fans will love seeing all of those boys playing," Mansell said.

On a personal note, after playing 20 games and kicking 18 goals last season, the forward only sees himself on the improve.

"You can't ever really get too comfortable at AFL level. I'm looking to improve on my strength, fitness and overall smarts as a forward," Mansell said.

As for what lies ahead in the immediate future, the playing group are readying for practices matches, before Round 1's match against Carlton at the MCG.

"Nailing the detail, that's what we've been focusing on all pre-season. Then getting into the role-clarity, so when games hit, we don't have to worry and can just play footy when we are out there," he said.