Analysing the Major Contenders as the Gaelic Football Season Kicks Up a Gear

As the National Football League reaches its fourth weekend of the 2026 campaign, it feels like the right time to assess how some of the country’s leading counties are shaping up. With three rounds completed, sides are beginning to formulate their plans for the conclusion of the League and the start of the 2026 All-Ireland Championship. Early-season expectations are starting to take shape, and with club and college competitions now finished, counties can move forward with their strongest available panels ahead of the Provincial Championships in April.

With that in mind, below we analyse five major counties we expect to be at the forefront of the All-Ireland Championship in the latter stages of the season.

Who Are the Leading Contenders for the 2026 All-Ireland Title?

Kerry’s Title Defence: Can the 2025 Champions Retain Sam Maguire?

The 2025 All-Ireland champions have made a steady start to their National League campaign, recording a win, a draw, and a defeat in their opening three matches. The record is arguably more impressive than it appears at first glance, as a significant number of players have been unavailable due to extended club commitments, injury, or planned rest periods.

They have remained competitive despite those absences and will look to reintegrate key players as the league progresses and the championship approaches. Jack O’Connor’s side should improve considerably with returning personnel, and if Kerry can also uncover new options capable of strengthening their starting XV or overall panel, O’Connor will be satisfied with their early-season work as they aim to defend the Sam Maguire.

Donegal’s League Form: A Statement of Championship Intent?

The most in-form team in Division 1, with three wins from three, last year’s All-Ireland runners-up, have laid down an early marker. With an extra week before the Championship begins and Donegal not in Ulster action until April 26th, it will be interesting to see whether they maintain full focus on pursuing League honours.

A league title would represent just a fourth National League crown for the Tír Chonaill men, and given the gap between a potential league final and their opening Ulster Championship fixture, Jim McGuinness may view it as an opportunity to secure early silverware and build further momentum.

Galway’s Championship Credentials Under Padraig Joyce

Whether Galway have what it takes to win the biggest prizes remains uncertain, but they continue to be one of the most discussed teams in the country. Questions about their ability to convert promise into major honours have followed Padraig Joyce’s side in recent seasons, while speculation regarding player availability has resurfaced this year.

Joyce recently confirmed Paul Conroy’s return to training, and with John Maher and Cillian McDaid also regaining full fitness, those concerns may ease. There are also ongoing discussions about the influence Damien Comer and Shane Walsh can have this season. The emergence of players such as Shane McGrath, Fionn McDonagh, and Oisin Mac Donncha could prove crucial as Joyce works to build a squad capable of competing deep into both league and championship campaigns.

Armagh’s Division 1 Struggles: Cause for Concern?

The 2024 champions have endured a difficult start to Division 1 and already find themselves battling near the bottom of the table. The absence of Rian O’Neill, Niall Grimley, and Stefan Campbell has been significant for Kieran McGeeney, who also lost Kieran Donaghy from his coaching setup during the off-season.

Three-up rule breaches have proven costly in defeats to Galway and Roscommon, while a lack of clinical finishing was evident against the rejuvenated Rossies. These are areas McGeeney will need to address as the league progresses and attention gradually shifts towards the Championship.

Mayo’s Rebuild Under Andy Moran: Signs of Progress?

Mayo began the league positively under new manager Andy Moran, securing wins over Galway and Dublin. However, their momentum stalled following a disappointing performance in Round 3 against Donegal. As is often the case with Mayo sides, they battled throughout, but Donegal maintained control and eventually claimed a comfortable eight-point victory.

Mayo football has struggled for consistency in recent seasons, so supporters will hope the more expansive style shown in patches — along with the emergence of new options such as Darragh Beirne — continues to develop. Re-establishing themselves among the leading contenders in Gaelic Football and challenging Galway’s recent dominance in Connacht should be key objectives this year. Maintaining steady league progress will also be important for Moran as he builds his tenure.

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