Seven things to consider as Donegal look to book NFL Division 1 final spot

7 Finnbarr Roarty on a collision course with Paudie Clifford 

Finnbarr Roarty looks like he’s Donegal’s go-to man now when it comes to the opposition’s prime string puller. Pat Spillane mischievously suggested earlier this week that the Young Footballer of the Year is already being primed for a man-marking role on Paudie Clifford should Donegal and Kerry collide once more at the business end of the All-Ireland series. So much was made about Clifford not being tagged in the Kingdom’s ten-point All-Ireland final over Jim McGuinness’ side last term. Regardless of Spillane’s motives in looking to present that narrative, there is no doubt that Roarty’s role has evolved in 2026. The Glenties man has, to date, shut down playmakers like Mayo’s Ryan O’Donoghue and Armagh’s Oisin Conaty. But the impressive thing in all of that is he’s still getting down the other side and contributing on the scoreboard. That takes a serious level of fitness and, indeed, bravery as it could act as a double-edged sword were Donegal to be turned over and hit on the counterattack.