As the 2025 AFL season approaches, several coaches are facing intense pressure to deliver results.

While some have seen recent success, others are at critical junctures in their careers.

Whether it's longstanding coaches like Luke Beveridge at the Western Bulldogsย or those still searching for consistency, such as Adelaide's Matthew Nicks and Fremantle's Justin Longmuir, these leaders will be under scrutiny from fans, club executives, and the wider AFL community.

With premiership aspirations, rebuilding challenges, and contract uncertainties, these eight coaches must guide their teams to successโ€”or risk their future in the league.

6. Ken Hinkley (Port Adelaide)

Ken Hinkley enters his 13th season as head coach of Port Adelaide in 2025.

Despite leading the Power to three preliminary finals in five years, he faces intense pressure due to his failure to reach a Grand Final, holding the VFL/AFL record for the most games coached without an appearance (274 games). This situation has fueled ongoing debate among fans and critics.

After another preliminary final defeat in 2024, this time to Sydney by six goals, Port's footy manager Chris Davies praised Hinkley's resilience and ability to motivate players and staff.

ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 18: Ken Hinkley, Senior Coach of the Power, during the 2023 AFL Round 01 match between the Port Adelaide Power and the Brisbane Lions at Adelaide Oval on March 18, 2023 in Adelaide, Australia. (Photo by James Elsby/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

However, frustration among parts of the fanbase remains, as many believe the club consistently falls short when it matters most.

At 58, Hinkley is determined to fulfil the final year of his contract and aims to deliver Port's first premiership since 2004.

He draws inspiration from Brisbane's Chris Fagan, who won his first premiership at 63, emphasising that persistence is key. His rapport with the playing group remains strong, with stars like Connor Rozee and Zak Butters expressing admiration, which has contributed to the club's hesitance to change direction despite repeated finals exits.

The 2025 season brings significant changes to Port's list. The loss of All-Australian Dan Houston is a blow, but the acquisition of Gold Coast's Jack Lukosius should crucially strengthen the forward line.

Ultimately, Hinkley's future hinges on the success of Port's 2025 campaign, as powerbrokers weigh the possibility of a new era under assistant coach Josh Carr, against Hinkley's unwavering passion for the job and his quest to lead the Power to a Grand Final.