Just my opinion based on a bit of knowledge, clubs mostly work with individual lines (backs, mids, forwards). They'll do game reviews and opponent assessment for upcoming games. Code gameday footage and hold one on one meetings to review with the players.
Some clubs do it differently and run offensive/defensive coaches where they manage the offensive and defensive movement with all players (not just nominated lines).
Some manage stoppages/set plays/kickouts etc.
The soft cap affects the numbers but ideally, I like line coaches, a set play coach and an innovation coach. Someone with lots of alternative ideas. The coaching group can sort through the 90% of overly radical ideas that wouldn't work and can channel the 10% that are worth consideration. You need an eccentric character with a good idea about the sport but an imagination is gold. I love this idea. Innovation and out of the box thinking should be embraced but it rarely is.
AFL coaches are often very conservative in their approach and their idea of innovation extends to language, instead of embracing imagination. That's what made Clarko such a good coach. He embraced alternative thinking but the game bought him back to the pack eventually.

I'm the same. There are people here that are really @#$%&! clever in game analysis. BV is the same. But most clubs only employ former players as assistants. I just don't understand why nobody has taken a flier on someone outside the system.

A bit left field but it's a shame we couldn't consider Daisy Pearce.
She sees the game really well, communicates it in simple terms and she appears to be a top shelf person.
Unfortunately AFLW lists are settled otherwise it would be good to get her across to play for our AFLW team and then move into assisting with the mens team.