Recruiting Trade & Free Agency VIII

[Lore]

ATTENTION OPPOSITION POSTERS: You are on the Essendon board - not the draft board, or the main board or your club board. You are welcome to post here but you will mind your manners or you will be carded. Don't waltz in here telling the locals what's happening/not happening, what's dumb etc. By the same token sealioning will also not be tolerated so be warned. You do not have equal standing here no matter how right you think you are.

Spoiler: AFL TRADE, DRAFT AND FREE AGENCY KEY DATES 2020

Draft Combine
Tuesday October 1 - Friday October 4

AFL Grand Final
Saturday October 24

Free Agency Window
Friday October 30 – Friday November 6

AFL Trade Period (Players and picks)
Wednesday November 4 – 7.30pm Thursday November 12

List Lodgement 1
Wednesday November 25

Delisted Free Agency Window 1
Thursday November 26 - Sunday November 29

List Lodgement 2 (Final date for primary list delistings)
Monday November 30

Delisted Free Agency Window 2
Monday November 30 - Tuesday December 1

AFL Trade Period (Picks only)
Concludes Thursday December 3

National Draft
7pm Wednesday December 9

Preseason and Rookie Drafts
12pm Thursday December 10

Final List Lodgement
Mid-December (tbc)

Pre-Season Supplemental Selection Period (SSP)
Wednesday January 6, 2021 – will conclude prior to the start of the 2021 Toyota AFL Premiership Season

Spoiler: DRAFT ORDER

Any issues with it post in this thread:

Draft discussion goes here: Draft Watch

Father/Son & NGA discussion goes here: James Hird Academy (Father/Son and Next Generation)

Poll results: Who should stay? | Which key forward do you want? | What would you give up to get Josh Dunkley

5

Josh Dunkley

Age

27

Ht

191cm

Wt

87kg

Pos.

Mid

Career

Season

Last 5

D

21.8

5star

K

10.4

4star

HB

11.3

5star

M

4.3

4star

T

5.8

5star

CL

3.2

5star

D

20.7

5star

K

7.0

3star

HB

13.7

5star

M

2.3

2star

T

5.3

5star

CL

2.7

4star

D

14.2

4star

K

7.2

3star

HB

7.0

5star

M

4.8

5star

T

4.0

5star

CL

1.4

4star

?

 

[Howard Moon]

Obligatory semi contrarian positive post brewing

I'm not totally sure it's all doom and gloom, look, we fell apart at the end, granted. When we fall apart we fall apart big style, hence the pitiful percentage...

I'm loathe to blame Injuries or whatever else but in the end of course they are a factor. At the end of the day we got destroyed by the top end of the ladder when the season was cooked. Clearly we are not a top end team, but...

If I think back to the carlton loss, the gws loss, the gc draw, slugging it with Richmond and wce til very late, I just feel like if those results go your way the entire outlook on the season changes. I'm not talking about wallpapering cracks here, I'm actually talking about uptake of the game plan and the will to do it.

I think back years ago to Sydney, had a bloody hard and taxing game plan on their players, they would basically not turn up for the first half of the season, look a rabble then when the finals math was getting tight they would activate game plan and on the jugganaut would roll.

I'm thinking that our game plan isn't an easy style to play, not mentally but physically, to get it right will be hard work singularly and as a team. This is the type of work you are more willing to do while winning or in the finals mix, once you drop out so does the effort and the want and the system based gameplan falls away, you start getting smashed. That is the difference between good and bad clubs, application, constant non negotiable effort. Clearly we aren't there.

I say if we beat gws, gc, carlton ( all 3 we have away) and are sitting firmly in the 8, the effort and application lasts longer and our season dosent turn into a write off.

Sure we have holes that need filling, but it's not demolish and rebuild style, most of its mental.

A combative mid, a small defender and a reliable forward might just do

 

[citizen-erased]

would appreciate McGrath, Ridley, Draper and Stringer sending me the occasional text to let me know they're staying and that I'm their favourite supporter, once a week would do.

how can you be if i am?

 

[citizen-erased]

Obligatory semi contrarian positive post brewing

I'm not totally sure it's all doom and gloom, look, we fell apart at the end, granted. When we fall apart we fall apart big style, hence the pitiful percentage...

I'm loathe to blame Injuries or whatever else but in the end of course they are a factor. At the end of the day we got destroyed by the top end of the ladder when the season was cooked. Clearly we are not a top end team, but...

If I think back to the carlton loss, the gws loss, the gc draw, slugging it with Richmond and wce til very late, I just feel like if those results go your way the entire outlook on the season changes. I'm not talking about wallpapering cracks here, I'm actually talking about uptake of the game plan and the will to do it.

I think back years ago to Sydney, had a bloody hard and taxing game plan on their players, they would basically not turn up for the first half of the season, look a rabble then when the finals math was getting tight they would activate game plan and on the jugganaut would roll.

I'm thinking that our game plan isn't an easy style to play, not mentally but physically, to get it right will be hard work singularly and as a team. This is the type of work you are more willing to do while winning or in the finals mix, once you drop out so does the effort and the want and the system based gameplan falls away, you start getting smashed. That is the difference between good and bad clubs, application, constant non negotiable effort. Clearly we aren't there.

I say if we beat gws, gc, carlton ( all 3 we have away) and are sitting firmly in the 8, the effort and application lasts longer and our season dosent turn into a write off.

Sure we have holes that need filling, but it's not demolish and rebuild style, most of its mental.

A combative mid, a small defender and a reliable forward might just do

i'd say 2x mids. We're a little shallow in the midfield depth. tbh, i wouldn't mind a 3rd to cover the fact Heppell has a pretty bad injury.

O'Halloran, Caldwell, Constable, Brodie - 2 of these, plus another at our first pick.

 

[Milanista28]

Reckon Harry Jones has 15+ games in him next season? Would be a real positive

 

[cAsEy_18]

Reckon Harry Jones has 15+ games in him next season? Would be a real positive

Obviously no-one was able to see much of him this year, so this is a fairly uninformed view I'm putting forward, but I'd fairly comfortably lock in no.

 

[Bjchan13]

Reckon Harry Jones has 15+ games in him next season? Would be a real positive

Id play him on a flank so he doesn't get monstered too early. I think Hooker and Stewart down there could give Jones a good look at a third tall with less pressure. Might have to compete with Laverde for that spot who was playing pretty well when he wasnt injured. Maybe 15+ is asking a bit much but at least give him a game and have a look.

 

[Thom18]

First poster here. Thought I'd give my thoughts on what we should do this offseason. I think a miny rebuild needs to happen over the next couple of years to rebuild the holes in the list and build depth.

Out of contract players:

• B.Ham (1 year) don’t really rate him but deserves one more year.
• M.Gleeson (delist or trade) rather play youngest, there won’t be any difference in their bodies strength wise.
• J.Townsend (delist) thanks for clogging the list and a few good tackles
• Henry Crauford (1 year) looked promising in scratch match vision but is 23 already, needs to play next year if he’s any chance.
• James Stewart (2 years) played well I thought this year
• Kyle Langford (3 years) turned into a really solid player this year. Happy to see it
• Jayden Laverde (1 year) one last chance.
• Irving Mosquito (1 year) showed something, sad about the injury only one year to see his professionalism with the injury.
• Jordan Ridley (3-4 years) give him whatever he wants
• Andrew McGrath (3-4 years) see above (Ridley)
• Will Snelling (2 years) nice year, ok player.

Trade Outs:

• Joe Daniher (restricted agent)– Needs to go, should’ve gone last year but now even more so.
  • Brisbane Receive: Joe Daniher
  • Essendon Receive: Pick 7 compensation (if don’t get 7 then trade for pick 18,19 + 3rd rounder or 4th rounder)
• Adam Saad (out-of-contract, looks like might stay now but I’d still trade)– He’s a great player but value wise he won’t ever be higher. If we can get an early first round pick for him, I’m all for it.
  • Carlton, NM or whoever receives: Adam Saad
  • Essendon receives: Pick 8-15
• Orazio Fantasia (looking for trade)– Get him out of here. Wish he was gone last year as well.
  • Adelaide receives: Orazio Fantasia
  • Essendon receives: Pick 31
• Matt Guelfi (possibly looking for trade?)– if he wants to go back to WA then sure. He gives good effort but he will never be anything more than a fringe player
  • Fremantle receives: Matt Guelfi
  • Essendon receives: 3rd or 4th round pick 2021

Trade In’s:

• Alex Witherden + pick swaps– if Brisbane wanna get us to that pick 7 compensation then I like this trade to get more draft capital and a really nice young ball user off the HBF. Allows Brisbane to get a really nice player at 7 as well.
  • Brisbane receive: Pick 7 and 2021 2nd round pick
  • Essendon receive: Alex Witherden, Pick 18 and Pick 19
• Ben Paton – back pocket lockdown type who fits our age and fills a need. Has been linked to us.
  • St Kilda receives: Pick 42 + 61
  • Essendon receives: Ben Paton
• Peter Wright– honestly not sure about this one but is available and can come in and be a target plus can be ruck depth
  • GC receive: 2021 3rd round pick (Freo)
  • Essendon receive: Peter Wright
• Developing taller inside midfielder (Charlie Constable, Will Brodie or Xavier O’Halloran)– a younger tall inside midfielder who can come in and play immediately would be a good get. Charlie Constable is most interesting to me.
  • Geelong (GWS or GC) receives: Pick 31
  • Essendon receives: Inside Mid (Charlie Constable hopefully)

Draft:

Go to the draft with: Pick 6, Saad pick (10-15), 18, 19, 69, 70, (potentially late draft pick from inside mid deal)

I think that although this is a weird draft with COVID affecting a lot of prospects, it provides a unique opportunity. We could have the chance to draft players that may have performed outstandingly this year and would’ve been out of reach at our picks.


10 player’s that Essendon should go for with top 20 picks:

1 – Logan McDonald – would be the best replacement for Daniher we could get. No chance he’s there at 6 but I would look to package 6 + 18 or possibly the Saad pick to get him.

2 – Will Phillips – think he’s the best midfielder although his size doesn’t complement our midfielder. If he’s there at 6 I think you have to pick best player available. I get the feeling he won’t be available at 6, given I’d think GC will strongly look at him to complete their Oakleigh midfield.

3 – Tanner Bruhn – I think this bloke would be one of the one’s out of reach if we had a normal season. Incredibly talented midfielder and despite being on the smaller side (182 cm) Id be very happy to take him at 6.

4 – Caleb Poulter – I see this him as the ideal midfielder for Essendon. 191 cm who wins a heap of the ball, aggressive, good mark around the ground, booming kick and can hit the scoreboard . I think he will rise in draft calculations from now till draft time and potentially as a top 10 draft pick. I’d select him at 6, saad pick or if we got lucky 18,19 (currently consensus seems to be around that 13-20).

5 – Riley Thilthorpe – 200 cm forward/ruck would be handy Daniher replacement. Likely gone by pick 6.

6 – Nathan O’Driscoll – 187 cm midfielder. Looks a really nice player but can see him dropping to mid to late first round

7 – Denver Grainger-Barras – Best defender in draft and looks very good but I’d be disappointed if we selected him with pick 6. Interest at Saad pick or 18 if he were to slide down the draft.

7 – Archie Perkins – High upside mid/forward. Nice size.

8 – Nik Cox – 199 cm defender/ utlity. I wouldn’t be interested with pick 6 but any of saad pick, 18,19 he could be interesting.

9 – Zach Reid – 202 cm defender. Similar story to Cox. More interested in Saad pick, 18, 19

10 – Jackson Callow – Strong close to ready tall forward. Interested for pick 19 or further back in the draft if he falls

Most likely draft result:

6 – Tanner Bruhn

10 -15 (saad) – Caleb Poulter

18 – a tall who is available at pick (either Denver, Cox or Reid)

19 – Mid-sized player who can play multiple positions like Perkins, Ford, O’Driscoll etc.

LATE PICKS – match any bids for Cody Brand and Josh Eyre. Most likely seems maybe Brand gets a late bid. Eyre seems unlikely.

SQUAD FOR 2021

V - Veteran (Ready-made players at their peak or over it. Will play senior games)
Y - Younger (Good young players who are not yet at full potential but will play senior games in 2021)
D - Developmental (Most likely not ready for AFL in 2021)

Tall Defenders:

• M.Hurley (V) – I’d play one of hurley or Ambrose down back all year but only one. Need to develop the younger players.
• P.Ambrose (V) – see above.
• Brandon Zerk-Thatcher (Y) – I don’t rate him. Incredibly slow and I don’t see a significant standout skill he brings to the team. Needs a big 2021.
• A.Francis (Y) – needs to step up in 2021.
• J.Ridley (Y) – star.
• C.Brand (D) – will need a couple years.
• Pick 18 (Denver, Cox, Reid) (D-Y) – whoever is picked will need a couple years (if Cox or Reid might need to consider as a developing as a forward)
• C.McBride (D) – Would be one who really missed the VFL experience this year. probably needs a full season of VFL

Small / Medium Defenders:

• B.Paton (Y) – becomes the lockdown small defender that we need
• A.Witherden (Y) – lovely ball user out of the defence
• M.Redman (Y) – needs a big 2021 after going backwards this year. I still have faith
• L.Johnson (D) – not all that keen on him but who know’s
• R.McQuillan (Y) – Always seemed to receive positive reviews in scratch matches. Hopefully can get games in 2021.
• Devon Smith (V) – Worrying 2020. Legs look shot but I didn’t mind him in defence and think it’s the logical position for him considering I don’t think he can play midfield. Could spend some time forward as well

Midfielders:

• Dylan Shiel (V) – Peak years coming up. Please fix your disposal.
• Zach Merrett (V/Y) – Still think he can improve a little considering he’s 25. Our best player and hope he isn’t leaving next season.
• Dylan Heppell (V) – Worrying signs that he cant get on the field. Should give up the captaincy and focus on playing
• Dylan Clarke (Y) – Ok depth player who is a great tagger if he ever plays that role. Sadly, I don’t think he will and will have to provide value as a pressure player.
• Brayden Ham (Y) – Big year for him.
• Tom Cutler (V) – I hope he doesn’t play at all next year
• Kyle Langford (V/Y) – Great 2020, hopefully can continue the form
• Andrew McGrath (Y) – Great 2020, hopefully can go to another level in 2021.
• Darcy Parish (V/Y) – Good 2020, needs to go to another level again
• Inside mid traded in – eg - Charlie Constable (Y) – Hopefully comes in and cements spot in best 22
• Tanner Bruhn (or other pick 6) (Y/D) – Hopefully can play games early as an HFF.
• Caleb Poulter (D) – Probably needs a season in VFL with a couple of games hopefully in the big smoke
• T.Hird (D) – won’t play 2021. Needs big year in VFL to be any chance of making it.

Ruck:

• S.Draper (Y) – Please stay healthy, looks a weapon in the making
• A.Phillips (V) – meh he’s ok
• N.Bryan (D) – hopefully goes past Phillips this year and has nice year in VFL in ruck and forward.

Tall Forwards:

• Cale hooker (V) – last year. Stick in the forward line and keep him their if he’s going to play.
• P.Wright (Y/V) – Hopefully can come in and be a solid forward and provide ruck depth
• J.Stewart (V) – needs to continue momentum from this year and be a good 2nd tall
• H.Jones (D) – needs to put on size and probably spends whole year in VFL, maybe debuting at some point
• Josh Eyre (D) – develop in 2’s all year

Medium/Small forwards:

• Jake Stringer (V) – hope he can have a full year like how he started this year
• David Zaharakis (V) – please don’t play him. Will probably play every game he’s available for.
• Jayden Laverde (Y/V) – last chance year. Depth player. Maybe he should try to reinvent himself as a backman.
• Will Snelling (Y) – nice 2020, he’s alright
• Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti (V) – gun
• Pick 19 (D) – Probably plays majority VFL.
• Ned Cahill (Y) – I like him, hope he can play more in 2021.
• I.Mosquito (Y) – injured for entire of 2021

 

[ghostdog]

I'd keep Saad.

 

[Lore]

First poster here. Thought I'd give my thoughts on what we should do this offseason. I think a miny rebuild needs to happen over the next couple of years to rebuild the holes in the list and build depth.

Out of contract players:

• B.Ham (1 year) don’t really rate him but deserves one more year.
• M.Gleeson (delist or trade) rather play youngest, there won’t be any difference in their bodies strength wise.
• J.Townsend (delist) thanks for clogging the list and a few good tackles
• Henry Crauford (1 year) looked promising in scratch match vision but is 23 already, needs to play next year if he’s any chance.
• James Stewart (2 years) played well I thought this year
• Kyle Langford (3 years) turned into a really solid player this year. Happy to see it
• Jayden Laverde (1 year) one last chance.
• Irving Mosquito (1 year) showed something, sad about the injury only one year to see his professionalism with the injury.
• Jordan Ridley (3-4 years) give him whatever he wants
• Andrew McGrath (3-4 years) see above (Ridley)
• Will Snelling (2 years) nice year, ok player.

Trade Outs:

• Joe Daniher (restricted agent)– Needs to go, should’ve gone last year but now even more so.
  • Brisbane Receive: Joe Daniher
  • Essendon Receive: Pick 7 compensation (if don’t get 7 then trade for pick 18,19 + 3rd rounder or 4th rounder)
• Adam Saad (out-of-contract, looks like might stay now but I’d still trade)– He’s a great player but value wise he won’t ever be higher. If we can get an early first round pick for him, I’m all for it.
  • Carlton, NM or whoever receives: Adam Saad
  • Essendon receives: Pick 8-15
• Orazio Fantasia (looking for trade)– Get him out of here. Wish he was gone last year as well.
  • Adelaide receives: Orazio Fantasia
  • Essendon receives: Pick 31
• Matt Guelfi (possibly looking for trade?)– if he wants to go back to WA then sure. He gives good effort but he will never be anything more than a fringe player
  • Fremantle receives: Matt Guelfi
  • Essendon receives: 3rd or 4th round pick 2021

Trade In’s:

• Alex Witherden + pick swaps– if Brisbane wanna get us to that pick 7 compensation then I like this trade to get more draft capital and a really nice young ball user off the HBF. Allows Brisbane to get a really nice player at 7 as well.
  • Brisbane receive: Pick 7 and 2021 2nd round pick
  • Essendon receive: Alex Witherden, Pick 18 and Pick 19
• Ben Paton – back pocket lockdown type who fits our age and fills a need. Has been linked to us.
  • St Kilda receives: Pick 42 + 61
  • Essendon receives: Ben Paton
• Peter Wright– honestly not sure about this one but is available and can come in and be a target plus can be ruck depth
  • GC receive: 2021 3rd round pick (Freo)
  • Essendon receive: Peter Wright
• Developing taller inside midfielder (Charlie Constable, Will Brodie or Xavier O’Halloran)– a younger tall inside midfielder who can come in and play immediately would be a good get. Charlie Constable is most interesting to me.
  • Geelong (GWS or GC) receives: Pick 31
  • Essendon receives: Inside Mid (Charlie Constable hopefully)

Draft:

Go to the draft with: Pick 6, Saad pick (10-15), 18, 19, 69, 70, (potentially late draft pick from inside mid deal)

I think that although this is a weird draft with COVID affecting a lot of prospects, it provides a unique opportunity. We could have the chance to draft players that may have performed outstandingly this year and would’ve been out of reach at our picks.


10 player’s that Essendon should go for with top 20 picks:

1 – Logan McDonald – would be the best replacement for Daniher we could get. No chance he’s there at 6 but I would look to package 6 + 18 or possibly the Saad pick to get him.

2 – Will Phillips – think he’s the best midfielder although his size doesn’t complement our midfielder. If he’s there at 6 I think you have to pick best player available. I get the feeling he won’t be available at 6, given I’d think GC will strongly look at him to complete their Oakleigh midfield.

3 – Tanner Bruhn – I think this bloke would be one of the one’s out of reach if we had a normal season. Incredibly talented midfielder and despite being on the smaller side (182 cm) Id be very happy to take him at 6.

4 – Caleb Poulter – I see this him as the ideal midfielder for Essendon. 191 cm who wins a heap of the ball, aggressive, good mark around the ground, booming kick and can hit the scoreboard . I think he will rise in draft calculations from now till draft time and potentially as a top 10 draft pick. I’d select him at 6, saad pick or if we got lucky 18,19 (currently consensus seems to be around that 13-20).

5 – Riley Thilthorpe – 200 cm forward/ruck would be handy Daniher replacement. Likely gone by pick 6.

6 – Nathan O’Driscoll – 187 cm midfielder. Looks a really nice player but can see him dropping to mid to late first round

7 – Denver Grainger-Barras – Best defender in draft and looks very good but I’d be disappointed if we selected him with pick 6. Interest at Saad pick or 18 if he were to slide down the draft.

7 – Archie Perkins – High upside mid/forward. Nice size.

8 – Nik Cox – 199 cm defender/ utlity. I wouldn’t be interested with pick 6 but any of saad pick, 18,19 he could be interesting.

9 – Zach Reid – 202 cm defender. Similar story to Cox. More interested in Saad pick, 18, 19

10 – Jackson Callow – Strong close to ready tall forward. Interested for pick 19 or further back in the draft if he falls

Most likely draft result:

6 – Tanner Bruhn

10 -15 (saad) – Caleb Poulter

18 – a tall who is available at pick (either Denver, Cox or Reid)

19 – Mid-sized player who can play multiple positions like Perkins, Ford, O’Driscoll etc.

LATE PICKS – match any bids for Cody Brand and Josh Eyre. Most likely seems maybe Brand gets a late bid. Eyre seems unlikely.

SQUAD FOR 2021

V - Veteran (Ready-made players at their peak or over it. Will play senior games)
Y - Younger (Good young players who are not yet at full potential but will play senior games in 2021)
D - Developmental (Most likely not ready for AFL in 2021)

Tall Defenders:

• M.Hurley (V) – I’d play one of hurley or Ambrose down back all year but only one. Need to develop the younger players.
• P.Ambrose (V) – see above.
• Brandon Zerk-Thatcher (Y) – I don’t rate him. Incredibly slow and I don’t see a significant standout skill he brings to the team. Needs a big 2021.
• A.Francis (Y) – needs to step up in 2021.
• J.Ridley (Y) – star.
• C.Brand (D) – will need a couple years.
• Pick 18 (Denver, Cox, Reid) (D-Y) – whoever is picked will need a couple years (if Cox or Reid might need to consider as a developing as a forward)
• C.McBride (D) – Would be one who really missed the VFL experience this year. probably needs a full season of VFL

Small / Medium Defenders:

• B.Paton (Y) – becomes the lockdown small defender that we need
• A.Witherden (Y) – lovely ball user out of the defence
• M.Redman (Y) – needs a big 2021 after going backwards this year. I still have faith
• L.Johnson (D) – not all that keen on him but who know’s
• R.McQuillan (Y) – Always seemed to receive positive reviews in scratch matches. Hopefully can get games in 2021.
• Devon Smith (V) – Worrying 2020. Legs look shot but I didn’t mind him in defence and think it’s the logical position for him considering I don’t think he can play midfield. Could spend some time forward as well

Midfielders:

• Dylan Shiel (V) – Peak years coming up. Please fix your disposal.
• Zach Merrett (V/Y) – Still think he can improve a little considering he’s 25. Our best player and hope he isn’t leaving next season.
• Dylan Heppell (V) – Worrying signs that he cant get on the field. Should give up the captaincy and focus on playing
• Dylan Clarke (Y) – Ok depth player who is a great tagger if he ever plays that role. Sadly, I don’t think he will and will have to provide value as a pressure player.
• Brayden Ham (Y) – Big year for him.
• Tom Cutler (V) – I hope he doesn’t play at all next year
• Kyle Langford (V/Y) – Great 2020, hopefully can continue the form
• Andrew McGrath (Y) – Great 2020, hopefully can go to another level in 2021.
• Darcy Parish (V/Y) – Good 2020, needs to go to another level again
• Inside mid traded in – eg - Charlie Constable (Y) – Hopefully comes in and cements spot in best 22
• Tanner Bruhn (or other pick 6) (Y/D) – Hopefully can play games early as an HFF.
• Caleb Poulter (D) – Probably needs a season in VFL with a couple of games hopefully in the big smoke
• T.Hird (D) – won’t play 2021. Needs big year in VFL to be any chance of making it.

Ruck:

• S.Draper (Y) – Please stay healthy, looks a weapon in the making
• A.Phillips (V) – meh he’s ok
• N.Bryan (D) – hopefully goes past Phillips this year and has nice year in VFL in ruck and forward.

Tall Forwards:

• Cale hooker (V) – last year. Stick in the forward line and keep him their if he’s going to play.
• P.Wright (Y/V) – Hopefully can come in and be a solid forward and provide ruck depth
• J.Stewart (V) – needs to continue momentum from this year and be a good 2nd tall
• H.Jones (D) – needs to put on size and probably spends whole year in VFL, maybe debuting at some point
• Josh Eyre (D) – develop in 2’s all year

Medium/Small forwards:

• Jake Stringer (V) – hope he can have a full year like how he started this year
• David Zaharakis (V) – please don’t play him. Will probably play every game he’s available for.
• Jayden Laverde (Y/V) – last chance year. Depth player. Maybe he should try to reinvent himself as a backman.
• Will Snelling (Y) – nice 2020, he’s alright
• Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti (V) – gun
• Pick 19 (D) – Probably plays majority VFL.
• Ned Cahill (Y) – I like him, hope he can play more in 2021.
• I.Mosquito (Y) – injured for entire of 2021

That's probably one of the most high-effort first posts I've ever seen. Welcome.

 

[Howard Moon]

That's probably one of the most high-effort first posts I've ever seen. Welcome.

Nearly worth its own thread, how'd that be, first post first thread

 

[JT_the_Man]

First poster here. Thought I'd give my thoughts on what we should do this offseason. I think a miny rebuild needs to happen over the next couple of years to rebuild the holes in the list and build depth.

Out of contract players:

• B.Ham (1 year) don’t really rate him but deserves one more year.
• M.Gleeson (delist or trade) rather play youngest, there won’t be any difference in their bodies strength wise.
• J.Townsend (delist) thanks for clogging the list and a few good tackles
• Henry Crauford (1 year) looked promising in scratch match vision but is 23 already, needs to play next year if he’s any chance.
• James Stewart (2 years) played well I thought this year
• Kyle Langford (3 years) turned into a really solid player this year. Happy to see it
• Jayden Laverde (1 year) one last chance.
• Irving Mosquito (1 year) showed something, sad about the injury only one year to see his professionalism with the injury.
• Jordan Ridley (3-4 years) give him whatever he wants
• Andrew McGrath (3-4 years) see above (Ridley)
• Will Snelling (2 years) nice year, ok player.

Trade Outs:

• Joe Daniher (restricted agent)– Needs to go, should’ve gone last year but now even more so.
  • Brisbane Receive: Joe Daniher
  • Essendon Receive: Pick 7 compensation (if don’t get 7 then trade for pick 18,19 + 3rd rounder or 4th rounder)
• Adam Saad (out-of-contract, looks like might stay now but I’d still trade)– He’s a great player but value wise he won’t ever be higher. If we can get an early first round pick for him, I’m all for it.
  • Carlton, NM or whoever receives: Adam Saad
  • Essendon receives: Pick 8-15
• Orazio Fantasia (looking for trade)– Get him out of here. Wish he was gone last year as well.
  • Adelaide receives: Orazio Fantasia
  • Essendon receives: Pick 31
• Matt Guelfi (possibly looking for trade?)– if he wants to go back to WA then sure. He gives good effort but he will never be anything more than a fringe player
  • Fremantle receives: Matt Guelfi
  • Essendon receives: 3rd or 4th round pick 2021

Trade In’s:

• Alex Witherden + pick swaps– if Brisbane wanna get us to that pick 7 compensation then I like this trade to get more draft capital and a really nice young ball user off the HBF. Allows Brisbane to get a really nice player at 7 as well.
  • Brisbane receive: Pick 7 and 2021 2nd round pick
  • Essendon receive: Alex Witherden, Pick 18 and Pick 19
• Ben Paton – back pocket lockdown type who fits our age and fills a need. Has been linked to us.
  • St Kilda receives: Pick 42 + 61
  • Essendon receives: Ben Paton
• Peter Wright– honestly not sure about this one but is available and can come in and be a target plus can be ruck depth
  • GC receive: 2021 3rd round pick (Freo)
  • Essendon receive: Peter Wright
• Developing taller inside midfielder (Charlie Constable, Will Brodie or Xavier O’Halloran)– a younger tall inside midfielder who can come in and play immediately would be a good get. Charlie Constable is most interesting to me.
  • Geelong (GWS or GC) receives: Pick 31
  • Essendon receives: Inside Mid (Charlie Constable hopefully)

Draft:

Go to the draft with: Pick 6, Saad pick (10-15), 18, 19, 69, 70, (potentially late draft pick from inside mid deal)

I think that although this is a weird draft with COVID affecting a lot of prospects, it provides a unique opportunity. We could have the chance to draft players that may have performed outstandingly this year and would’ve been out of reach at our picks.


10 player’s that Essendon should go for with top 20 picks:

1 – Logan McDonald – would be the best replacement for Daniher we could get. No chance he’s there at 6 but I would look to package 6 + 18 or possibly the Saad pick to get him.

2 – Will Phillips – think he’s the best midfielder although his size doesn’t complement our midfielder. If he’s there at 6 I think you have to pick best player available. I get the feeling he won’t be available at 6, given I’d think GC will strongly look at him to complete their Oakleigh midfield.

3 – Tanner Bruhn – I think this bloke would be one of the one’s out of reach if we had a normal season. Incredibly talented midfielder and despite being on the smaller side (182 cm) Id be very happy to take him at 6.

4 – Caleb Poulter – I see this him as the ideal midfielder for Essendon. 191 cm who wins a heap of the ball, aggressive, good mark around the ground, booming kick and can hit the scoreboard . I think he will rise in draft calculations from now till draft time and potentially as a top 10 draft pick. I’d select him at 6, saad pick or if we got lucky 18,19 (currently consensus seems to be around that 13-20).

5 – Riley Thilthorpe – 200 cm forward/ruck would be handy Daniher replacement. Likely gone by pick 6.

6 – Nathan O’Driscoll – 187 cm midfielder. Looks a really nice player but can see him dropping to mid to late first round

7 – Denver Grainger-Barras – Best defender in draft and looks very good but I’d be disappointed if we selected him with pick 6. Interest at Saad pick or 18 if he were to slide down the draft.

7 – Archie Perkins – High upside mid/forward. Nice size.

8 – Nik Cox – 199 cm defender/ utlity. I wouldn’t be interested with pick 6 but any of saad pick, 18,19 he could be interesting.

9 – Zach Reid – 202 cm defender. Similar story to Cox. More interested in Saad pick, 18, 19

10 – Jackson Callow – Strong close to ready tall forward. Interested for pick 19 or further back in the draft if he falls

Most likely draft result:

6 – Tanner Bruhn

10 -15 (saad) – Caleb Poulter

18 – a tall who is available at pick (either Denver, Cox or Reid)

19 – Mid-sized player who can play multiple positions like Perkins, Ford, O’Driscoll etc.

LATE PICKS – match any bids for Cody Brand and Josh Eyre. Most likely seems maybe Brand gets a late bid. Eyre seems unlikely.

SQUAD FOR 2021

V - Veteran (Ready-made players at their peak or over it. Will play senior games)
Y - Younger (Good young players who are not yet at full potential but will play senior games in 2021)
D - Developmental (Most likely not ready for AFL in 2021)

Tall Defenders:

• M.Hurley (V) – I’d play one of hurley or Ambrose down back all year but only one. Need to develop the younger players.
• P.Ambrose (V) – see above.
• Brandon Zerk-Thatcher (Y) – I don’t rate him. Incredibly slow and I don’t see a significant standout skill he brings to the team. Needs a big 2021.
• A.Francis (Y) – needs to step up in 2021.
• J.Ridley (Y) – star.
• C.Brand (D) – will need a couple years.
• Pick 18 (Denver, Cox, Reid) (D-Y) – whoever is picked will need a couple years (if Cox or Reid might need to consider as a developing as a forward)
• C.McBride (D) – Would be one who really missed the VFL experience this year. probably needs a full season of VFL

Small / Medium Defenders:

• B.Paton (Y) – becomes the lockdown small defender that we need
• A.Witherden (Y) – lovely ball user out of the defence
• M.Redman (Y) – needs a big 2021 after going backwards this year. I still have faith
• L.Johnson (D) – not all that keen on him but who know’s
• R.McQuillan (Y) – Always seemed to receive positive reviews in scratch matches. Hopefully can get games in 2021.
• Devon Smith (V) – Worrying 2020. Legs look shot but I didn’t mind him in defence and think it’s the logical position for him considering I don’t think he can play midfield. Could spend some time forward as well

Midfielders:

• Dylan Shiel (V) – Peak years coming up. Please fix your disposal.
• Zach Merrett (V/Y) – Still think he can improve a little considering he’s 25. Our best player and hope he isn’t leaving next season.
• Dylan Heppell (V) – Worrying signs that he cant get on the field. Should give up the captaincy and focus on playing
• Dylan Clarke (Y) – Ok depth player who is a great tagger if he ever plays that role. Sadly, I don’t think he will and will have to provide value as a pressure player.
• Brayden Ham (Y) – Big year for him.
• Tom Cutler (V) – I hope he doesn’t play at all next year
• Kyle Langford (V/Y) – Great 2020, hopefully can continue the form
• Andrew McGrath (Y) – Great 2020, hopefully can go to another level in 2021.
• Darcy Parish (V/Y) – Good 2020, needs to go to another level again
• Inside mid traded in – eg - Charlie Constable (Y) – Hopefully comes in and cements spot in best 22
• Tanner Bruhn (or other pick 6) (Y/D) – Hopefully can play games early as an HFF.
• Caleb Poulter (D) – Probably needs a season in VFL with a couple of games hopefully in the big smoke
• T.Hird (D) – won’t play 2021. Needs big year in VFL to be any chance of making it.

Ruck:

• S.Draper (Y) – Please stay healthy, looks a weapon in the making
• A.Phillips (V) – meh he’s ok
• N.Bryan (D) – hopefully goes past Phillips this year and has nice year in VFL in ruck and forward.

Tall Forwards:

• Cale hooker (V) – last year. Stick in the forward line and keep him their if he’s going to play.
• P.Wright (Y/V) – Hopefully can come in and be a solid forward and provide ruck depth
• J.Stewart (V) – needs to continue momentum from this year and be a good 2nd tall
• H.Jones (D) – needs to put on size and probably spends whole year in VFL, maybe debuting at some point
• Josh Eyre (D) – develop in 2’s all year

Medium/Small forwards:

• Jake Stringer (V) – hope he can have a full year like how he started this year
• David Zaharakis (V) – please don’t play him. Will probably play every game he’s available for.
• Jayden Laverde (Y/V) – last chance year. Depth player. Maybe he should try to reinvent himself as a backman.
• Will Snelling (Y) – nice 2020, he’s alright
• Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti (V) – gun
• Pick 19 (D) – Probably plays majority VFL.
• Ned Cahill (Y) – I like him, hope he can play more in 2021.
• I.Mosquito (Y) – injured for entire of 2021

Agree with a fair bit of that.

Main point of disagreement is that if Saad wants to stay, I’m giving him whatever he wants.

 

[ghostdog]

That's probably one of the most high-effort first posts I've ever seen. Welcome.

Thom18's first post at the same time that Brasher throws his support behind Dodoro must raise the question; Is Thom18 actually Adrian Dodoro?

 

[CBombers17]

Thom18's first post at the same time that Brasher throws his support behind Dodoro must raise the question; Is Thom18 actually Adrian Dodoro?

Given Thom's grasp on our midfield among other things that would seem unlikely!

 

[Keystone agony]

I think we would have to offer more than 42 and 61 for Paton

But he's a good one to go after especially if he's still yet to sign on with Stkilda

 

[Keystone agony]

Agree with a fair bit of that.

Main point of disagreement is that if Saad wants to stay, I’m giving him whatever he wants.

So 5 years, 1 mill a year? In reduced caps

 

[eth-dog]

First poster here. Thought I'd give my thoughts on what we should do this offseason. I think a miny rebuild needs to happen over the next couple of years to rebuild the holes in the list and build depth.

Out of contract players:

• B.Ham (1 year) don’t really rate him but deserves one more year.
• M.Gleeson (delist or trade) rather play youngest, there won’t be any difference in their bodies strength wise.
• J.Townsend (delist) thanks for clogging the list and a few good tackles
• Henry Crauford (1 year) looked promising in scratch match vision but is 23 already, needs to play next year if he’s any chance.
• James Stewart (2 years) played well I thought this year
• Kyle Langford (3 years) turned into a really solid player this year. Happy to see it
• Jayden Laverde (1 year) one last chance.
• Irving Mosquito (1 year) showed something, sad about the injury only one year to see his professionalism with the injury.
• Jordan Ridley (3-4 years) give him whatever he wants
• Andrew McGrath (3-4 years) see above (Ridley)
• Will Snelling (2 years) nice year, ok player.

Trade Outs:

• Joe Daniher (restricted agent)– Needs to go, should’ve gone last year but now even more so.
  • Brisbane Receive: Joe Daniher
  • Essendon Receive: Pick 7 compensation (if don’t get 7 then trade for pick 18,19 + 3rd rounder or 4th rounder)
• Adam Saad (out-of-contract, looks like might stay now but I’d still trade)– He’s a great player but value wise he won’t ever be higher. If we can get an early first round pick for him, I’m all for it.
  • Carlton, NM or whoever receives: Adam Saad
  • Essendon receives: Pick 8-15
• Orazio Fantasia (looking for trade)– Get him out of here. Wish he was gone last year as well.
  • Adelaide receives: Orazio Fantasia
  • Essendon receives: Pick 31
• Matt Guelfi (possibly looking for trade?)– if he wants to go back to WA then sure. He gives good effort but he will never be anything more than a fringe player
  • Fremantle receives: Matt Guelfi
  • Essendon receives: 3rd or 4th round pick 2021

Trade In’s:

• Alex Witherden + pick swaps– if Brisbane wanna get us to that pick 7 compensation then I like this trade to get more draft capital and a really nice young ball user off the HBF. Allows Brisbane to get a really nice player at 7 as well.
  • Brisbane receive: Pick 7 and 2021 2nd round pick
  • Essendon receive: Alex Witherden, Pick 18 and Pick 19
• Ben Paton – back pocket lockdown type who fits our age and fills a need. Has been linked to us.
  • St Kilda receives: Pick 42 + 61
  • Essendon receives: Ben Paton
• Peter Wright– honestly not sure about this one but is available and can come in and be a target plus can be ruck depth
  • GC receive: 2021 3rd round pick (Freo)
  • Essendon receive: Peter Wright
• Developing taller inside midfielder (Charlie Constable, Will Brodie or Xavier O’Halloran)– a younger tall inside midfielder who can come in and play immediately would be a good get. Charlie Constable is most interesting to me.
  • Geelong (GWS or GC) receives: Pick 31
  • Essendon receives: Inside Mid (Charlie Constable hopefully)

Draft:

Go to the draft with: Pick 6, Saad pick (10-15), 18, 19, 69, 70, (potentially late draft pick from inside mid deal)

I think that although this is a weird draft with COVID affecting a lot of prospects, it provides a unique opportunity. We could have the chance to draft players that may have performed outstandingly this year and would’ve been out of reach at our picks.


10 player’s that Essendon should go for with top 20 picks:

1 – Logan McDonald – would be the best replacement for Daniher we could get. No chance he’s there at 6 but I would look to package 6 + 18 or possibly the Saad pick to get him.

2 – Will Phillips – think he’s the best midfielder although his size doesn’t complement our midfielder. If he’s there at 6 I think you have to pick best player available. I get the feeling he won’t be available at 6, given I’d think GC will strongly look at him to complete their Oakleigh midfield.

3 – Tanner Bruhn – I think this bloke would be one of the one’s out of reach if we had a normal season. Incredibly talented midfielder and despite being on the smaller side (182 cm) Id be very happy to take him at 6.

4 – Caleb Poulter – I see this him as the ideal midfielder for Essendon. 191 cm who wins a heap of the ball, aggressive, good mark around the ground, booming kick and can hit the scoreboard . I think he will rise in draft calculations from now till draft time and potentially as a top 10 draft pick. I’d select him at 6, saad pick or if we got lucky 18,19 (currently consensus seems to be around that 13-20).

5 – Riley Thilthorpe – 200 cm forward/ruck would be handy Daniher replacement. Likely gone by pick 6.

6 – Nathan O’Driscoll – 187 cm midfielder. Looks a really nice player but can see him dropping to mid to late first round

7 – Denver Grainger-Barras – Best defender in draft and looks very good but I’d be disappointed if we selected him with pick 6. Interest at Saad pick or 18 if he were to slide down the draft.

7 – Archie Perkins – High upside mid/forward. Nice size.

8 – Nik Cox – 199 cm defender/ utlity. I wouldn’t be interested with pick 6 but any of saad pick, 18,19 he could be interesting.

9 – Zach Reid – 202 cm defender. Similar story to Cox. More interested in Saad pick, 18, 19

10 – Jackson Callow – Strong close to ready tall forward. Interested for pick 19 or further back in the draft if he falls

Most likely draft result:

6 – Tanner Bruhn

10 -15 (saad) – Caleb Poulter

18 – a tall who is available at pick (either Denver, Cox or Reid)

19 – Mid-sized player who can play multiple positions like Perkins, Ford, O’Driscoll etc.

LATE PICKS – match any bids for Cody Brand and Josh Eyre. Most likely seems maybe Brand gets a late bid. Eyre seems unlikely.

SQUAD FOR 2021

V - Veteran (Ready-made players at their peak or over it. Will play senior games)
Y - Younger (Good young players who are not yet at full potential but will play senior games in 2021)
D - Developmental (Most likely not ready for AFL in 2021)

Tall Defenders:

• M.Hurley (V) – I’d play one of hurley or Ambrose down back all year but only one. Need to develop the younger players.
• P.Ambrose (V) – see above.
• Brandon Zerk-Thatcher (Y) – I don’t rate him. Incredibly slow and I don’t see a significant standout skill he brings to the team. Needs a big 2021.
• A.Francis (Y) – needs to step up in 2021.
• J.Ridley (Y) – star.
• C.Brand (D) – will need a couple years.
• Pick 18 (Denver, Cox, Reid) (D-Y) – whoever is picked will need a couple years (if Cox or Reid might need to consider as a developing as a forward)
• C.McBride (D) – Would be one who really missed the VFL experience this year. probably needs a full season of VFL

Small / Medium Defenders:

• B.Paton (Y) – becomes the lockdown small defender that we need
• A.Witherden (Y) – lovely ball user out of the defence
• M.Redman (Y) – needs a big 2021 after going backwards this year. I still have faith
• L.Johnson (D) – not all that keen on him but who know’s
• R.McQuillan (Y) – Always seemed to receive positive reviews in scratch matches. Hopefully can get games in 2021.
• Devon Smith (V) – Worrying 2020. Legs look shot but I didn’t mind him in defence and think it’s the logical position for him considering I don’t think he can play midfield. Could spend some time forward as well

Midfielders:

• Dylan Shiel (V) – Peak years coming up. Please fix your disposal.
• Zach Merrett (V/Y) – Still think he can improve a little considering he’s 25. Our best player and hope he isn’t leaving next season.
• Dylan Heppell (V) – Worrying signs that he cant get on the field. Should give up the captaincy and focus on playing
• Dylan Clarke (Y) – Ok depth player who is a great tagger if he ever plays that role. Sadly, I don’t think he will and will have to provide value as a pressure player.
• Brayden Ham (Y) – Big year for him.
• Tom Cutler (V) – I hope he doesn’t play at all next year
• Kyle Langford (V/Y) – Great 2020, hopefully can continue the form
• Andrew McGrath (Y) – Great 2020, hopefully can go to another level in 2021.
• Darcy Parish (V/Y) – Good 2020, needs to go to another level again
• Inside mid traded in – eg - Charlie Constable (Y) – Hopefully comes in and cements spot in best 22
• Tanner Bruhn (or other pick 6) (Y/D) – Hopefully can play games early as an HFF.
• Caleb Poulter (D) – Probably needs a season in VFL with a couple of games hopefully in the big smoke
• T.Hird (D) – won’t play 2021. Needs big year in VFL to be any chance of making it.

Ruck:

• S.Draper (Y) – Please stay healthy, looks a weapon in the making
• A.Phillips (V) – meh he’s ok
• N.Bryan (D) – hopefully goes past Phillips this year and has nice year in VFL in ruck and forward.

Tall Forwards:

• Cale hooker (V) – last year. Stick in the forward line and keep him their if he’s going to play.
• P.Wright (Y/V) – Hopefully can come in and be a solid forward and provide ruck depth
• J.Stewart (V) – needs to continue momentum from this year and be a good 2nd tall
• H.Jones (D) – needs to put on size and probably spends whole year in VFL, maybe debuting at some point
• Josh Eyre (D) – develop in 2’s all year

Medium/Small forwards:

• Jake Stringer (V) – hope he can have a full year like how he started this year
• David Zaharakis (V) – please don’t play him. Will probably play every game he’s available for.
• Jayden Laverde (Y/V) – last chance year. Depth player. Maybe he should try to reinvent himself as a backman.
• Will Snelling (Y) – nice 2020, he’s alright
• Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti (V) – gun
• Pick 19 (D) – Probably plays majority VFL.
• Ned Cahill (Y) – I like him, hope he can play more in 2021.
• I.Mosquito (Y) – injured for entire of 2021

Cracker first post. My only disagreements as far as contract extensions and trades would be keeping Saad and Gleeson and pissing Laverde off.

 

[JT_the_Man]

So 5 years, 1 mill a year? In reduced caps

I’d give him 5 years.

I haven’t heard anyone else offering 1 mil a year, so I highly doubt it comes to that.

 

[fairbump_playon]

First poster here. Thought I'd give my thoughts on what we should do this offseason. I think a miny rebuild needs to happen over the next couple of years to rebuild the holes in the list and build depth.

Out of contract players:

• B.Ham (1 year) don’t really rate him but deserves one more year.
• M.Gleeson (delist or trade) rather play youngest, there won’t be any difference in their bodies strength wise.
• J.Townsend (delist) thanks for clogging the list and a few good tackles
• Henry Crauford (1 year) looked promising in scratch match vision but is 23 already, needs to play next year if he’s any chance.
• James Stewart (2 years) played well I thought this year
• Kyle Langford (3 years) turned into a really solid player this year. Happy to see it
• Jayden Laverde (1 year) one last chance.
• Irving Mosquito (1 year) showed something, sad about the injury only one year to see his professionalism with the injury.
• Jordan Ridley (3-4 years) give him whatever he wants
• Andrew McGrath (3-4 years) see above (Ridley)
• Will Snelling (2 years) nice year, ok player.

Trade Outs:

• Joe Daniher (restricted agent)– Needs to go, should’ve gone last year but now even more so.
  • Brisbane Receive: Joe Daniher
  • Essendon Receive: Pick 7 compensation (if don’t get 7 then trade for pick 18,19 + 3rd rounder or 4th rounder)
• Adam Saad (out-of-contract, looks like might stay now but I’d still trade)– He’s a great player but value wise he won’t ever be higher. If we can get an early first round pick for him, I’m all for it.
  • Carlton, NM or whoever receives: Adam Saad
  • Essendon receives: Pick 8-15
• Orazio Fantasia (looking for trade)– Get him out of here. Wish he was gone last year as well.
  • Adelaide receives: Orazio Fantasia
  • Essendon receives: Pick 31
• Matt Guelfi (possibly looking for trade?)– if he wants to go back to WA then sure. He gives good effort but he will never be anything more than a fringe player
  • Fremantle receives: Matt Guelfi
  • Essendon receives: 3rd or 4th round pick 2021

Trade In’s:

• Alex Witherden + pick swaps– if Brisbane wanna get us to that pick 7 compensation then I like this trade to get more draft capital and a really nice young ball user off the HBF. Allows Brisbane to get a really nice player at 7 as well.
  • Brisbane receive: Pick 7 and 2021 2nd round pick
  • Essendon receive: Alex Witherden, Pick 18 and Pick 19
• Ben Paton – back pocket lockdown type who fits our age and fills a need. Has been linked to us.
  • St Kilda receives: Pick 42 + 61
  • Essendon receives: Ben Paton
• Peter Wright– honestly not sure about this one but is available and can come in and be a target plus can be ruck depth
  • GC receive: 2021 3rd round pick (Freo)
  • Essendon receive: Peter Wright
• Developing taller inside midfielder (Charlie Constable, Will Brodie or Xavier O’Halloran)– a younger tall inside midfielder who can come in and play immediately would be a good get. Charlie Constable is most interesting to me.
  • Geelong (GWS or GC) receives: Pick 31
  • Essendon receives: Inside Mid (Charlie Constable hopefully)

Draft:

Go to the draft with: Pick 6, Saad pick (10-15), 18, 19, 69, 70, (potentially late draft pick from inside mid deal)

I think that although this is a weird draft with COVID affecting a lot of prospects, it provides a unique opportunity. We could have the chance to draft players that may have performed outstandingly this year and would’ve been out of reach at our picks.


10 player’s that Essendon should go for with top 20 picks:

1 – Logan McDonald – would be the best replacement for Daniher we could get. No chance he’s there at 6 but I would look to package 6 + 18 or possibly the Saad pick to get him.

2 – Will Phillips – think he’s the best midfielder although his size doesn’t complement our midfielder. If he’s there at 6 I think you have to pick best player available. I get the feeling he won’t be available at 6, given I’d think GC will strongly look at him to complete their Oakleigh midfield.

3 – Tanner Bruhn – I think this bloke would be one of the one’s out of reach if we had a normal season. Incredibly talented midfielder and despite being on the smaller side (182 cm) Id be very happy to take him at 6.

4 – Caleb Poulter – I see this him as the ideal midfielder for Essendon. 191 cm who wins a heap of the ball, aggressive, good mark around the ground, booming kick and can hit the scoreboard . I think he will rise in draft calculations from now till draft time and potentially as a top 10 draft pick. I’d select him at 6, saad pick or if we got lucky 18,19 (currently consensus seems to be around that 13-20).

5 – Riley Thilthorpe – 200 cm forward/ruck would be handy Daniher replacement. Likely gone by pick 6.

6 – Nathan O’Driscoll – 187 cm midfielder. Looks a really nice player but can see him dropping to mid to late first round

7 – Denver Grainger-Barras – Best defender in draft and looks very good but I’d be disappointed if we selected him with pick 6. Interest at Saad pick or 18 if he were to slide down the draft.

7 – Archie Perkins – High upside mid/forward. Nice size.

8 – Nik Cox – 199 cm defender/ utlity. I wouldn’t be interested with pick 6 but any of saad pick, 18,19 he could be interesting.

9 – Zach Reid – 202 cm defender. Similar story to Cox. More interested in Saad pick, 18, 19

10 – Jackson Callow – Strong close to ready tall forward. Interested for pick 19 or further back in the draft if he falls

Most likely draft result:

6 – Tanner Bruhn

10 -15 (saad) – Caleb Poulter

18 – a tall who is available at pick (either Denver, Cox or Reid)

19 – Mid-sized player who can play multiple positions like Perkins, Ford, O’Driscoll etc.

LATE PICKS – match any bids for Cody Brand and Josh Eyre. Most likely seems maybe Brand gets a late bid. Eyre seems unlikely.

SQUAD FOR 2021

V - Veteran (Ready-made players at their peak or over it. Will play senior games)
Y - Younger (Good young players who are not yet at full potential but will play senior games in 2021)
D - Developmental (Most likely not ready for AFL in 2021)

Tall Defenders:

• M.Hurley (V) – I’d play one of hurley or Ambrose down back all year but only one. Need to develop the younger players.
• P.Ambrose (V) – see above.
• Brandon Zerk-Thatcher (Y) – I don’t rate him. Incredibly slow and I don’t see a significant standout skill he brings to the team. Needs a big 2021.
• A.Francis (Y) – needs to step up in 2021.
• J.Ridley (Y) – star.
• C.Brand (D) – will need a couple years.
• Pick 18 (Denver, Cox, Reid) (D-Y) – whoever is picked will need a couple years (if Cox or Reid might need to consider as a developing as a forward)
• C.McBride (D) – Would be one who really missed the VFL experience this year. probably needs a full season of VFL

Small / Medium Defenders:

• B.Paton (Y) – becomes the lockdown small defender that we need
• A.Witherden (Y) – lovely ball user out of the defence
• M.Redman (Y) – needs a big 2021 after going backwards this year. I still have faith
• L.Johnson (D) – not all that keen on him but who know’s
• R.McQuillan (Y) – Always seemed to receive positive reviews in scratch matches. Hopefully can get games in 2021.
• Devon Smith (V) – Worrying 2020. Legs look shot but I didn’t mind him in defence and think it’s the logical position for him considering I don’t think he can play midfield. Could spend some time forward as well

Midfielders:

• Dylan Shiel (V) – Peak years coming up. Please fix your disposal.
• Zach Merrett (V/Y) – Still think he can improve a little considering he’s 25. Our best player and hope he isn’t leaving next season.
• Dylan Heppell (V) – Worrying signs that he cant get on the field. Should give up the captaincy and focus on playing
• Dylan Clarke (Y) – Ok depth player who is a great tagger if he ever plays that role. Sadly, I don’t think he will and will have to provide value as a pressure player.
• Brayden Ham (Y) – Big year for him.
• Tom Cutler (V) – I hope he doesn’t play at all next year
• Kyle Langford (V/Y) – Great 2020, hopefully can continue the form
• Andrew McGrath (Y) – Great 2020, hopefully can go to another level in 2021.
• Darcy Parish (V/Y) – Good 2020, needs to go to another level again
• Inside mid traded in – eg - Charlie Constable (Y) – Hopefully comes in and cements spot in best 22
• Tanner Bruhn (or other pick 6) (Y/D) – Hopefully can play games early as an HFF.
• Caleb Poulter (D) – Probably needs a season in VFL with a couple of games hopefully in the big smoke
• T.Hird (D) – won’t play 2021. Needs big year in VFL to be any chance of making it.

Ruck:

• S.Draper (Y) – Please stay healthy, looks a weapon in the making
• A.Phillips (V) – meh he’s ok
• N.Bryan (D) – hopefully goes past Phillips this year and has nice year in VFL in ruck and forward.

Tall Forwards:

• Cale hooker (V) – last year. Stick in the forward line and keep him their if he’s going to play.
• P.Wright (Y/V) – Hopefully can come in and be a solid forward and provide ruck depth
• J.Stewart (V) – needs to continue momentum from this year and be a good 2nd tall
• H.Jones (D) – needs to put on size and probably spends whole year in VFL, maybe debuting at some point
• Josh Eyre (D) – develop in 2’s all year

Medium/Small forwards:

• Jake Stringer (V) – hope he can have a full year like how he started this year
• David Zaharakis (V) – please don’t play him. Will probably play every game he’s available for.
• Jayden Laverde (Y/V) – last chance year. Depth player. Maybe he should try to reinvent himself as a backman.
• Will Snelling (Y) – nice 2020, he’s alright
• Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti (V) – gun
• Pick 19 (D) – Probably plays majority VFL.
• Ned Cahill (Y) – I like him, hope he can play more in 2021.
• I.Mosquito (Y) – injured for entire of 2021

Yes, very nice post.

Agree with all the above except that with pick 10-15 you really can't hope to do any better than Saad - plus you have to wait for 3 years for the guy you pick to get to a level where they are not quite as good as Saad - or to turn out to be a bust.

Would rather just keep him.

Agree with you that Zerk isn't super promising - and FWIW I too would be keeping Laverde.

 

[eDPS]

First poster here. Thought I'd give my thoughts on what we should do this offseason. I think a miny rebuild needs to happen over the next couple of years to rebuild the holes in the list and build depth.

Out of contract players:

• B.Ham (1 year) don’t really rate him but deserves one more year.
• M.Gleeson (delist or trade) rather play youngest, there won’t be any difference in their bodies strength wise.
• J.Townsend (delist) thanks for clogging the list and a few good tackles
• Henry Crauford (1 year) looked promising in scratch match vision but is 23 already, needs to play next year if he’s any chance.
• James Stewart (2 years) played well I thought this year
• Kyle Langford (3 years) turned into a really solid player this year. Happy to see it
• Jayden Laverde (1 year) one last chance.
• Irving Mosquito (1 year) showed something, sad about the injury only one year to see his professionalism with the injury.
• Jordan Ridley (3-4 years) give him whatever he wants
• Andrew McGrath (3-4 years) see above (Ridley)
• Will Snelling (2 years) nice year, ok player.

Trade Outs:

• Joe Daniher (restricted agent)– Needs to go, should’ve gone last year but now even more so.
  • Brisbane Receive: Joe Daniher
  • Essendon Receive: Pick 7 compensation (if don’t get 7 then trade for pick 18,19 + 3rd rounder or 4th rounder)
• Adam Saad (out-of-contract, looks like might stay now but I’d still trade)– He’s a great player but value wise he won’t ever be higher. If we can get an early first round pick for him, I’m all for it.
  • Carlton, NM or whoever receives: Adam Saad
  • Essendon receives: Pick 8-15
• Orazio Fantasia (looking for trade)– Get him out of here. Wish he was gone last year as well.
  • Adelaide receives: Orazio Fantasia
  • Essendon receives: Pick 31
• Matt Guelfi (possibly looking for trade?)– if he wants to go back to WA then sure. He gives good effort but he will never be anything more than a fringe player
  • Fremantle receives: Matt Guelfi
  • Essendon receives: 3rd or 4th round pick 2021

Trade In’s:

• Alex Witherden + pick swaps– if Brisbane wanna get us to that pick 7 compensation then I like this trade to get more draft capital and a really nice young ball user off the HBF. Allows Brisbane to get a really nice player at 7 as well.
  • Brisbane receive: Pick 7 and 2021 2nd round pick
  • Essendon receive: Alex Witherden, Pick 18 and Pick 19
• Ben Paton – back pocket lockdown type who fits our age and fills a need. Has been linked to us.
  • St Kilda receives: Pick 42 + 61
  • Essendon receives: Ben Paton
• Peter Wright– honestly not sure about this one but is available and can come in and be a target plus can be ruck depth
  • GC receive: 2021 3rd round pick (Freo)
  • Essendon receive: Peter Wright
• Developing taller inside midfielder (Charlie Constable, Will Brodie or Xavier O’Halloran)– a younger tall inside midfielder who can come in and play immediately would be a good get. Charlie Constable is most interesting to me.
  • Geelong (GWS or GC) receives: Pick 31
  • Essendon receives: Inside Mid (Charlie Constable hopefully)

Draft:

Go to the draft with: Pick 6, Saad pick (10-15), 18, 19, 69, 70, (potentially late draft pick from inside mid deal)

I think that although this is a weird draft with COVID affecting a lot of prospects, it provides a unique opportunity. We could have the chance to draft players that may have performed outstandingly this year and would’ve been out of reach at our picks.


10 player’s that Essendon should go for with top 20 picks:

1 – Logan McDonald – would be the best replacement for Daniher we could get. No chance he’s there at 6 but I would look to package 6 + 18 or possibly the Saad pick to get him.

2 – Will Phillips – think he’s the best midfielder although his size doesn’t complement our midfielder. If he’s there at 6 I think you have to pick best player available. I get the feeling he won’t be available at 6, given I’d think GC will strongly look at him to complete their Oakleigh midfield.

3 – Tanner Bruhn – I think this bloke would be one of the one’s out of reach if we had a normal season. Incredibly talented midfielder and despite being on the smaller side (182 cm) Id be very happy to take him at 6.

4 – Caleb Poulter – I see this him as the ideal midfielder for Essendon. 191 cm who wins a heap of the ball, aggressive, good mark around the ground, booming kick and can hit the scoreboard . I think he will rise in draft calculations from now till draft time and potentially as a top 10 draft pick. I’d select him at 6, saad pick or if we got lucky 18,19 (currently consensus seems to be around that 13-20).

5 – Riley Thilthorpe – 200 cm forward/ruck would be handy Daniher replacement. Likely gone by pick 6.

6 – Nathan O’Driscoll – 187 cm midfielder. Looks a really nice player but can see him dropping to mid to late first round

7 – Denver Grainger-Barras – Best defender in draft and looks very good but I’d be disappointed if we selected him with pick 6. Interest at Saad pick or 18 if he were to slide down the draft.

7 – Archie Perkins – High upside mid/forward. Nice size.

8 – Nik Cox – 199 cm defender/ utlity. I wouldn’t be interested with pick 6 but any of saad pick, 18,19 he could be interesting.

9 – Zach Reid – 202 cm defender. Similar story to Cox. More interested in Saad pick, 18, 19

10 – Jackson Callow – Strong close to ready tall forward. Interested for pick 19 or further back in the draft if he falls

Most likely draft result:

6 – Tanner Bruhn

10 -15 (saad) – Caleb Poulter

18 – a tall who is available at pick (either Denver, Cox or Reid)

19 – Mid-sized player who can play multiple positions like Perkins, Ford, O’Driscoll etc.

LATE PICKS – match any bids for Cody Brand and Josh Eyre. Most likely seems maybe Brand gets a late bid. Eyre seems unlikely.

SQUAD FOR 2021

V - Veteran (Ready-made players at their peak or over it. Will play senior games)
Y - Younger (Good young players who are not yet at full potential but will play senior games in 2021)
D - Developmental (Most likely not ready for AFL in 2021)

Tall Defenders:

• M.Hurley (V) – I’d play one of hurley or Ambrose down back all year but only one. Need to develop the younger players.
• P.Ambrose (V) – see above.
• Brandon Zerk-Thatcher (Y) – I don’t rate him. Incredibly slow and I don’t see a significant standout skill he brings to the team. Needs a big 2021.
• A.Francis (Y) – needs to step up in 2021.
• J.Ridley (Y) – star.
• C.Brand (D) – will need a couple years.
• Pick 18 (Denver, Cox, Reid) (D-Y) – whoever is picked will need a couple years (if Cox or Reid might need to consider as a developing as a forward)
• C.McBride (D) – Would be one who really missed the VFL experience this year. probably needs a full season of VFL

Small / Medium Defenders:

• B.Paton (Y) – becomes the lockdown small defender that we need
• A.Witherden (Y) – lovely ball user out of the defence
• M.Redman (Y) – needs a big 2021 after going backwards this year. I still have faith
• L.Johnson (D) – not all that keen on him but who know’s
• R.McQuillan (Y) – Always seemed to receive positive reviews in scratch matches. Hopefully can get games in 2021.
• Devon Smith (V) – Worrying 2020. Legs look shot but I didn’t mind him in defence and think it’s the logical position for him considering I don’t think he can play midfield. Could spend some time forward as well

Midfielders:

• Dylan Shiel (V) – Peak years coming up. Please fix your disposal.
• Zach Merrett (V/Y) – Still think he can improve a little considering he’s 25. Our best player and hope he isn’t leaving next season.
• Dylan Heppell (V) – Worrying signs that he cant get on the field. Should give up the captaincy and focus on playing
• Dylan Clarke (Y) – Ok depth player who is a great tagger if he ever plays that role. Sadly, I don’t think he will and will have to provide value as a pressure player.
• Brayden Ham (Y) – Big year for him.
• Tom Cutler (V) – I hope he doesn’t play at all next year
• Kyle Langford (V/Y) – Great 2020, hopefully can continue the form
• Andrew McGrath (Y) – Great 2020, hopefully can go to another level in 2021.
• Darcy Parish (V/Y) – Good 2020, needs to go to another level again
• Inside mid traded in – eg - Charlie Constable (Y) – Hopefully comes in and cements spot in best 22
• Tanner Bruhn (or other pick 6) (Y/D) – Hopefully can play games early as an HFF.
• Caleb Poulter (D) – Probably needs a season in VFL with a couple of games hopefully in the big smoke
• T.Hird (D) – won’t play 2021. Needs big year in VFL to be any chance of making it.

Ruck:

• S.Draper (Y) – Please stay healthy, looks a weapon in the making
• A.Phillips (V) – meh he’s ok
• N.Bryan (D) – hopefully goes past Phillips this year and has nice year in VFL in ruck and forward.

Tall Forwards:

• Cale hooker (V) – last year. Stick in the forward line and keep him their if he’s going to play.
• P.Wright (Y/V) – Hopefully can come in and be a solid forward and provide ruck depth
• J.Stewart (V) – needs to continue momentum from this year and be a good 2nd tall
• H.Jones (D) – needs to put on size and probably spends whole year in VFL, maybe debuting at some point
• Josh Eyre (D) – develop in 2’s all year

Medium/Small forwards:

• Jake Stringer (V) – hope he can have a full year like how he started this year
• David Zaharakis (V) – please don’t play him. Will probably play every game he’s available for.
• Jayden Laverde (Y/V) – last chance year. Depth player. Maybe he should try to reinvent himself as a backman.
• Will Snelling (Y) – nice 2020, he’s alright
• Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti (V) – gun
• Pick 19 (D) – Probably plays majority VFL.
• Ned Cahill (Y) – I like him, hope he can play more in 2021.
• I.Mosquito (Y) – injured for entire of 2021

Just a correction to this, Lachlan Johnson is a small forward/mid not a defender.

 

[Nicholas61]

A combative mid, a small defender and a reliable forward might just do

I agree wish some caveats - that is if we can get buy in from the rest of the players with our strategy going forward. Sometimes it doesn’t take much to turn a club around. My only other concern is what Ant mentions that it isn’t necessarily easy to turn guys into more defensive players. We really need to tighten up on teams just waltzing from one end of the ground to the other. We need to be hard to play against. I thought the Collingwood game was the first one I had seen in a long time where the opposition were given no space to work in.

 

[Thom18]

Yes, very nice post.

Agree with all the above except that with pick 10-15 you really can't hope to do any better than Saad - plus you have to wait for 3 years for the guy you pick to get to a level where they are not quite as good as Saad - or to turn out to be a bust.

Would rather just keep him.

Agree with you that Zerk isn't super promising - and FWIW I too would be keeping Laverde.

Agree with you and everybody else about the Saad pick won't likely get us anything better than Saad. If he wants to be at Essendon then I hope he stays, he's been one of the very few players you know what we will get from him every week.

 

[Zach Package]

Reckon Harry Jones has 15+ games in him next season? Would be a real positive

Provided he’s fit and gets a good pre season in I think you just empower him, let him know that it is his spot and let him loose.

The thing he will have going for him is that he’s hyper mobile and from everything I’ve seen can stay involved by linking up and finding ball on the deck, he’s not like a Mason Cox type that is useless if he doesn’t mark it.

It’s something we’re really shit at in general with younger talls but Draper and Zerk have had pretty good success so hopefully that influences the match committee to actually take a chance. I’d play Daniher, Stewart, Stringer and Jones together no issue.

 

[citizen-erased]

First poster here. Thought I'd give my thoughts on what we should do this offseason. I think a miny rebuild needs to happen over the next couple of years to rebuild the holes in the list and build depth.

Out of contract players:

• B.Ham (1 year) don’t really rate him but deserves one more year.
• M.Gleeson (delist or trade) rather play youngest, there won’t be any difference in their bodies strength wise.
• J.Townsend (delist) thanks for clogging the list and a few good tackles
• Henry Crauford (1 year) looked promising in scratch match vision but is 23 already, needs to play next year if he’s any chance.
• James Stewart (2 years) played well I thought this year
• Kyle Langford (3 years) turned into a really solid player this year. Happy to see it
• Jayden Laverde (1 year) one last chance.
• Irving Mosquito (1 year) showed something, sad about the injury only one year to see his professionalism with the injury.
• Jordan Ridley (3-4 years) give him whatever he wants
• Andrew McGrath (3-4 years) see above (Ridley)
• Will Snelling (2 years) nice year, ok player.

Trade Outs:

• Joe Daniher (restricted agent)– Needs to go, should’ve gone last year but now even more so.
  • Brisbane Receive: Joe Daniher
  • Essendon Receive: Pick 7 compensation (if don’t get 7 then trade for pick 18,19 + 3rd rounder or 4th rounder)
• Adam Saad (out-of-contract, looks like might stay now but I’d still trade)– He’s a great player but value wise he won’t ever be higher. If we can get an early first round pick for him, I’m all for it.
  • Carlton, NM or whoever receives: Adam Saad
  • Essendon receives: Pick 8-15
• Orazio Fantasia (looking for trade)– Get him out of here. Wish he was gone last year as well.
  • Adelaide receives: Orazio Fantasia
  • Essendon receives: Pick 31
• Matt Guelfi (possibly looking for trade?)– if he wants to go back to WA then sure. He gives good effort but he will never be anything more than a fringe player
  • Fremantle receives: Matt Guelfi
  • Essendon receives: 3rd or 4th round pick 2021

Trade In’s:

• Alex Witherden + pick swaps– if Brisbane wanna get us to that pick 7 compensation then I like this trade to get more draft capital and a really nice young ball user off the HBF. Allows Brisbane to get a really nice player at 7 as well.
  • Brisbane receive: Pick 7 and 2021 2nd round pick
  • Essendon receive: Alex Witherden, Pick 18 and Pick 19
• Ben Paton – back pocket lockdown type who fits our age and fills a need. Has been linked to us.
  • St Kilda receives: Pick 42 + 61
  • Essendon receives: Ben Paton
• Peter Wright– honestly not sure about this one but is available and can come in and be a target plus can be ruck depth
  • GC receive: 2021 3rd round pick (Freo)
  • Essendon receive: Peter Wright
• Developing taller inside midfielder (Charlie Constable, Will Brodie or Xavier O’Halloran)– a younger tall inside midfielder who can come in and play immediately would be a good get. Charlie Constable is most interesting to me.
  • Geelong (GWS or GC) receives: Pick 31
  • Essendon receives: Inside Mid (Charlie Constable hopefully)

Draft:

Go to the draft with: Pick 6, Saad pick (10-15), 18, 19, 69, 70, (potentially late draft pick from inside mid deal)

I think that although this is a weird draft with COVID affecting a lot of prospects, it provides a unique opportunity. We could have the chance to draft players that may have performed outstandingly this year and would’ve been out of reach at our picks.


10 player’s that Essendon should go for with top 20 picks:

1 – Logan McDonald – would be the best replacement for Daniher we could get. No chance he’s there at 6 but I would look to package 6 + 18 or possibly the Saad pick to get him.

2 – Will Phillips – think he’s the best midfielder although his size doesn’t complement our midfielder. If he’s there at 6 I think you have to pick best player available. I get the feeling he won’t be available at 6, given I’d think GC will strongly look at him to complete their Oakleigh midfield.

3 – Tanner Bruhn – I think this bloke would be one of the one’s out of reach if we had a normal season. Incredibly talented midfielder and despite being on the smaller side (182 cm) Id be very happy to take him at 6.

4 – Caleb Poulter – I see this him as the ideal midfielder for Essendon. 191 cm who wins a heap of the ball, aggressive, good mark around the ground, booming kick and can hit the scoreboard . I think he will rise in draft calculations from now till draft time and potentially as a top 10 draft pick. I’d select him at 6, saad pick or if we got lucky 18,19 (currently consensus seems to be around that 13-20).

5 – Riley Thilthorpe – 200 cm forward/ruck would be handy Daniher replacement. Likely gone by pick 6.

6 – Nathan O’Driscoll – 187 cm midfielder. Looks a really nice player but can see him dropping to mid to late first round

7 – Denver Grainger-Barras – Best defender in draft and looks very good but I’d be disappointed if we selected him with pick 6. Interest at Saad pick or 18 if he were to slide down the draft.

7 – Archie Perkins – High upside mid/forward. Nice size.

8 – Nik Cox – 199 cm defender/ utlity. I wouldn’t be interested with pick 6 but any of saad pick, 18,19 he could be interesting.

9 – Zach Reid – 202 cm defender. Similar story to Cox. More interested in Saad pick, 18, 19

10 – Jackson Callow – Strong close to ready tall forward. Interested for pick 19 or further back in the draft if he falls

Most likely draft result:

6 – Tanner Bruhn

10 -15 (saad) – Caleb Poulter

18 – a tall who is available at pick (either Denver, Cox or Reid)

19 – Mid-sized player who can play multiple positions like Perkins, Ford, O’Driscoll etc.

LATE PICKS – match any bids for Cody Brand and Josh Eyre. Most likely seems maybe Brand gets a late bid. Eyre seems unlikely.

SQUAD FOR 2021

V - Veteran (Ready-made players at their peak or over it. Will play senior games)
Y - Younger (Good young players who are not yet at full potential but will play senior games in 2021)
D - Developmental (Most likely not ready for AFL in 2021)

Tall Defenders:

• M.Hurley (V) – I’d play one of hurley or Ambrose down back all year but only one. Need to develop the younger players.
• P.Ambrose (V) – see above.
• Brandon Zerk-Thatcher (Y) – I don’t rate him. Incredibly slow and I don’t see a significant standout skill he brings to the team. Needs a big 2021.
• A.Francis (Y) – needs to step up in 2021.
• J.Ridley (Y) – star.
• C.Brand (D) – will need a couple years.
• Pick 18 (Denver, Cox, Reid) (D-Y) – whoever is picked will need a couple years (if Cox or Reid might need to consider as a developing as a forward)
• C.McBride (D) – Would be one who really missed the VFL experience this year. probably needs a full season of VFL

Small / Medium Defenders:

• B.Paton (Y) – becomes the lockdown small defender that we need
• A.Witherden (Y) – lovely ball user out of the defence
• M.Redman (Y) – needs a big 2021 after going backwards this year. I still have faith
• L.Johnson (D) – not all that keen on him but who know’s
• R.McQuillan (Y) – Always seemed to receive positive reviews in scratch matches. Hopefully can get games in 2021.
• Devon Smith (V) – Worrying 2020. Legs look shot but I didn’t mind him in defence and think it’s the logical position for him considering I don’t think he can play midfield. Could spend some time forward as well

Midfielders:

• Dylan Shiel (V) – Peak years coming up. Please fix your disposal.
• Zach Merrett (V/Y) – Still think he can improve a little considering he’s 25. Our best player and hope he isn’t leaving next season.
• Dylan Heppell (V) – Worrying signs that he cant get on the field. Should give up the captaincy and focus on playing
• Dylan Clarke (Y) – Ok depth player who is a great tagger if he ever plays that role. Sadly, I don’t think he will and will have to provide value as a pressure player.
• Brayden Ham (Y) – Big year for him.
• Tom Cutler (V) – I hope he doesn’t play at all next year
• Kyle Langford (V/Y) – Great 2020, hopefully can continue the form
• Andrew McGrath (Y) – Great 2020, hopefully can go to another level in 2021.
• Darcy Parish (V/Y) – Good 2020, needs to go to another level again
• Inside mid traded in – eg - Charlie Constable (Y) – Hopefully comes in and cements spot in best 22
• Tanner Bruhn (or other pick 6) (Y/D) – Hopefully can play games early as an HFF.
• Caleb Poulter (D) – Probably needs a season in VFL with a couple of games hopefully in the big smoke
• T.Hird (D) – won’t play 2021. Needs big year in VFL to be any chance of making it.

Ruck:

• S.Draper (Y) – Please stay healthy, looks a weapon in the making
• A.Phillips (V) – meh he’s ok
• N.Bryan (D) – hopefully goes past Phillips this year and has nice year in VFL in ruck and forward.

Tall Forwards:

• Cale hooker (V) – last year. Stick in the forward line and keep him their if he’s going to play.
• P.Wright (Y/V) – Hopefully can come in and be a solid forward and provide ruck depth
• J.Stewart (V) – needs to continue momentum from this year and be a good 2nd tall
• H.Jones (D) – needs to put on size and probably spends whole year in VFL, maybe debuting at some point
• Josh Eyre (D) – develop in 2’s all year

Medium/Small forwards:

• Jake Stringer (V) – hope he can have a full year like how he started this year
• David Zaharakis (V) – please don’t play him. Will probably play every game he’s available for.
• Jayden Laverde (Y/V) – last chance year. Depth player. Maybe he should try to reinvent himself as a backman.
• Will Snelling (Y) – nice 2020, he’s alright
• Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti (V) – gun
• Pick 19 (D) – Probably plays majority VFL.
• Ned Cahill (Y) – I like him, hope he can play more in 2021.
• I.Mosquito (Y) – injured for entire of 2021

That's quite good

Only thing i'd change, as others have mentioned, keep Saad and can do without the pick.
6, 18 & 19 is a good hand to start with.

Those are bargain deals for Paton and to an extent Wright, but would take them if feasible.

 

[Keystone agony]

I’d give him 5 years.

I haven’t heard anyone else offering 1 mil a year, so I highly doubt it comes to that.

But you said you'd give him that?

 

[Keystone agony]

Daniher
Fantasia
J.Stewart
Laverde
Stringer
D.Smith
Tippa
Snelling

Shiel
Z.Merrett
Langford
Heppell
McGrath
Parish
Draper

Ridley
Gleeson
Redman
Saad
Ambrose
Francis
BZT
Guelfi

That entire group if I'm not wrong is 22.5 - 29.5 years of age round 1 next year?