Stoney said:
But would you recruit him to kick goals in the modern AFL? I wouldn't think many would. The capacity to kick goals in the VFL does not directly translate to the AFL. Nick Sauntner and James Podsiadly have been kicking goals for fun in the VFL for years.
A 184cm FF can thrive in the VFL but has to play pocket or flank in the AFL. To play pockets and flanks he needs more pace, skill and athleticism.
Even if the guy does kick goals it is a tactical mistake. Clearing out the forward line and directing everything through a Medhurst or Williams might see that bloke kick goals but it destroys your forward line and destroys the way you move the ball.
Remember when 150 goal Todd Breman came to Richmond. The guy who had kicked 250 WAFL goals in 2 years? Greatest FF outside the AFL? Couldn't make it as a HBF. Was cut by the Eagles and us. Or John Hutton another 185cm FF who was an early draft pick?
Do you remember Alistair Scott, Justin Plapp, Mark McQueen?
The lower leagues are littered with small key position players who rely on their smarts and skills. As you move up the grades these guys can't compete with the bigger and more athletic players they come up against.
If Edwards had the ability to play wing and and other roles and go forward occasionally you'd look at him. Sending a Ricciuto-type to FF every now and again is a good tactic. But Edwards doesn't have that ability.
