AFL legend Lance ‘Buddy’ Franklin has ‘no doubt’ Hawthorn can win the premiership in 2025

An AFL legend has branded his former teammate a “super coach” and believes his side can contend for the premiership.

AFL champion Lance Franklin has hailed former teammate Sam Mitchell a “super coach” and believes Hawthorn’s best under him is good enough to win the premiership.

The Hawks have raced to 3-0 — a feat they achieved in premiership seasons 2008 and 2014.

Franklin was Hawthorn’s best player in one of those years (2008) while Mitchell was the club captain.

The star goal kicker referenced the Hawks’ form since their 0-5 start to 2024 and backed them to contend for the flag if they delivered their best footy.

“It’s still very early in the season but if you look at since Round 6 last year, their form has probably been the best (in the competition) besides Brisbane,” Franklin said.

“There’s a lot to play out but there’s no doubt their best is up there.”

Lance Franklin says his former side Hawthorn has the ability to win the premiership under “super coach” Sam Mitchell (R). (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

Franklin said he would have loved to have played for the ‘Hollywood Hawks’ with “mosquito fleet” Nick Watson, Dylan Moore and Jack Ginnivan at his feet.

Mitchell’s prowess as a coach comes as no surprise to Franklin, who labelled his long-time teammate a “super coach”.

“I think they’re in a really good spot … it’s a long year ahead but they’ve really set themselves up with three early wins,” he said.

“Sam is a super coach, he’s obviously doing some really good things, the boys are well drilled and playing some good footy.

“It’s obviously early in the year but if they can continue on, hopefully they can go all the way.

“It’s a mosquito fleet … that’s what the game is about, isn’t it? You want some big boys but it’s also about having multiple options and that’s what the Hawks have got.”

Hawthorn face a huge test with fellow undefeated side GWS in Launceston on Saturday night.