After rounds 3, 6, 9 & 12 the drafting format of Ultimate Footy awards additional player positions to players that have had a role change in the season. As always players are required to have played a minimum of 3 games to be eligible and to be playing the new position as their primary role in the side. Let’s look at who they are and their relevance to your draft sides and leagues.
An exciting gain for those who play a keeper or dynasty format. Finn Callaghan was one of the hottest prospects from the most recent draft class. As a centre, only his average in the mid-’50s isn’t of many benefits. But it could be helpful in the deeper keeper/dynasty style leagues.
Adam Kennedy | ADD BACK
By name, the addition of Adam Kennedy is not exciting at all. But on the current scoring trend, it’s a significant gain. Currently, he’s owned in just 37% of leagues. But in the past month, he’s scored 94, 74, 49 & 89. So if your backline depth is weak, he might be worth placing a waiver claim on. However, just show some caution. A player’s role and scoring like Adam’s could become hostile with the new coach at the helm.
With the West Coast Eagles injury list being so extensive over the last few months, the club has been forced to trial players in various positions. As a result, Connor West gained plenty of midfield minutes, and by osmosis, he’s been awarded centre status by the gang at UF.
Jamaine Jones | ADD CENTRE
In two games so far in 2022, Jones has scored 95+! That’s a positive ceiling. Concerningly he’s scored under 40 in just as many games. With the cavalry starting to return for the Eagles, he’s not someone I’d be joining out of my way to get.
Since forcing his way back into the Crows AFL side, Sam Berry has been a regular at centre bounces for Adelaide. He’s averaging well over 50% of CBA’s, including a season-high of 70% in round five. Any player that gains centre status becomes a significant boost to the owner as it further enhances squad flexibility.
The injury to Brodie Grundy has created an opportunity for Darcy Cameron, and he has taken it with both hands. In the last three weeks since becoming the #1 ruck, he is averaging 103. Nobody should be surprised, but Darcy is a walkup RUC/FWD gain. Depending on the current owner’s state of ruckmen or forwards, this DPP flexibility could be a massive help.
Zaine Cordy is averaging 33. That alone should be a reason to not read any further and look to the next player. Massive Pass.
Robbie McComb | ADD FWD
With an average of 56 as a centre, only Robbie McComb is someone that’s not rosterable in most leagues. And in most leagues, even with the probably FWD status addition, he’s not on most coaches radars. But in deeper leagues with large squads, he might just be the reason you dodge a donut for a match or two.
Connor Macdonald | ADD FWD
The Hawks are in rebuild mode, and as a result, some of the future midfielders are getting the education of playing multiple roles beyond just centre bounces. The junior ball magnet plays his role through the midfield and as a small-medium forward. It might not help single-season draft leagues, but a good pick up for keeper and dynasty leagues.
Aaron Francis | ADD FWD
You can’t go near Aaron Francis as a pickup. He’s played just three games and scored over 45 in just one of these. Even if he had TPP I wouldn’t pick him. Pass!
After rounds 3, 6, 9, 12 & 15, the drafting format of Ultimate Footy awards additional player positions to players that have had a role change in the season. On Wednesday, we’ll confirm with you exclusively which players WILL gain a new position, but before then, here are some players we believe would be in consideration for obtaining a new positional status.
I’m borderline on whether UltimateFooty allocates this for David Swallow. For the better part of the first six weeks, he’s spent the primary function across the halfback for the Suns. However, he’s attended 72%, 68%, and 53% of centre bounces in his last three games. So if he hasn’t got it to this point, I doubt he’ll get it now. Nevertheless, who knows, maybe we get the legacy addition.
Since forcing his way back into the Crows AFL side, Sam Berry has been a regular at centre bounces for Adelaide. He’s averaging well over 50% of CBA’s, including a season-high of 70% in round five. Any player that gains centre status becomes a significant boost to the owner as it further enhances squad flexibility. Pencil this DPP in to happen on Wednesday.
The injury to Brodie Grundy has created an opportunity for Darcy Cameron, and he has taken it with both hands. In the last three weeks since becoming the #1 ruck, he is averaging 103. Nobody should be surprised, but Darcy is a walkup RUC/FWD gain. Depending on the current owner’s state of ruckmen or forwards, this DPP flexibility could be a massive help.
With an average of 56 as a centre, only Robbie McComb is someone that’s not rosterable in most leagues. And in most leagues, even with the probably FWD status addition, he’s not on most coaches radars. But in deeper leagues with large squads, he might just be the reason you dodge a donut for a match or two.
Connor Macdonald | ADD FWD
The Hawks are in rebuild mode, and as a result, some of the future midfielders are getting the education of playing multiple roles beyond just centre bounces. The junior ball magnet plays his role through the midfield and as a small-medium forward. It might not help single-season draft leagues, but a good pick up for keeper and dynasty leagues.
Ben Hobbs | ADD FWD
Like Connor above, the potential MID/FWD gain for Ben Hobbs might not be a relevant inclusion in a single-season league. However, it is a promising trajectory in keeper and dynasty leagues. Ben Hobbs is learning his craft with small opportunities in the midfield for the bombers. The contested bull is spending most time inside the Essendon forward 50. It should be an easy add for the gang at UltimateFooty.
Marcus Bontempelli | ADD FWD
Please do not get your hopes up, but this is a small chance. UltimateFooty generally looks for a primary role change which can be upwards of a 70% position change before awarding a new DPP. For example, Marcus Bontempelli is splitting his time between MID-FWD, but is the split heavy enough forward to gain the status? Unlikely, but in the words of Lloyd Christmas in the movie dumb and dumber, ‘so you’re telling me there’s a chance.’
Bailey Smith| ADD FWD
Bailey Smith is in a very similar position to his skipper Bont. The difference is Bailey is starting across half-froward and then pushing up and down the ground with his high endurance. Is a position change certain? No! Possible? Yes! Likely? We’ll know the answer within 48 hours.
Jarrod Berry | ADD FWD
Jarrod Berry was a feature in the Lions centre bounces at the start of the season. Over the first five rounds of the year, he had multiple games that he attended over 60% centre bounces. However, more recently, he’s been squeezed onto the wing and playing some defensive focussed forward roles. The gang at UltimateFooty may look for some more data before pulling the positional trigger. But if they do award the status, it could be a season-saving move for him. Currently, Berry is averaging in the high 60s, which is poor for a centre-listed option even in deep leagues. As a MID/FWD, he’d move from the depth of coaches benches to a potentially playable forward.
Patrick Lipinski | ADD FWD
After a dazzling ton in round one, Patrick Lipinski is yet to hit the heights of his debut game as a Pie. Part of the reason is the former Bulldog is playing across the half-forward flank when not at centre bounces. He’s a strong chance to pick up forward status and will provide an instant boost to his owners forward stocks.
After rounds 3, 6, 9 & 12 the drafting format of Ultimate Footy awards additional player positions to players that have had a role change in the season. As always players are required to have played a minimum of 3 games to be eligible and to be playing the new position as their primary role in the side. Let’s look at who they are and their relevance to your draft sides and leagues.
FINALLY!That’s probably the first PG-rated word owners uttered upon seeing Dayne Zokro confirmed to pick up back status. His scoring has been a little bit hot and cold, but with a season-high score of 145, he’s still got the scoring capacity to be incredibly damaging. By average, he might not be D1, but he certainly could be on historical data. Massive win for his owners, especially if they are light on backs and heavy for midfielders. Being able to flip him into the backline could be a premiership-winning allocation.
Angus Brayshaw | ADD BACK
Like with Zorko, UltimateFooty waited for some more data to confirm the defensive role for Angus Brayshaw. However, the role change is clear, and the DPP allocation was essential. With an average of 93 and his ADP of 221 combined, this new DPP has enhanced that Gus is one draft day steals for coaches.
Brandon Ellis | ADD BACK
Brandon Ellis is probably the third biggest name to pick up an additional position by name and scoring legacy. The wingman has drifted deeper into the backline and is filling the void left by Jack Bowes. A mid 70’s average isn’t list changing, but a mid 70’s back is always ten times better than a centre only.
A seasonal average of 82 and multiple scores of 90+ have seen Errol Gulden become a highly valuable forward and currently inside the top 15 eligible forwards based on total points. Gulden is still spending some time inside forward 50, but his current role has seen him play heavily higher up the ground on the Sydney wings. Therefore, the addition of centre status is a fair and reasonable one.
Darcy Tucker | ADD CENTRE
Like every centre gain, it’s not a relevance bump but a versatility increase. With this extra position, Darcy Tucker is now more flexible in squads for his owners.
For the vast majority of his career, Brad Hill has roamed the wings for his teams. Despite having a game earlier in the year playing across half-forward, he’s been spending a lot of his game time between the arcs. Like any centre gain, it’s not a scoring relevance bump, just one that adds squad flexibility.
Nic Martin| ADD CENTRE
Don’t just look at the CBA data for projecting DPPs; that’s not the whole story. Especially in the case of Nic Martin. His midfield time isn’t at centre bounces but rather on the wing. His relevance in drafts won’t increase, but his value to his owners through flexibility will.
Mason Wood | ADD CENTRE
It’s been interesting to watch the Saints use Mason Wood more as a versatile tall up the ground than as the third-string tall inside forward 50. Of course, an average in the mid-’50s isn’t a huge help either as a forward or centre, but in deeper leagues, it might just save you copping a donut at one stage in the season.
Tanner Bruhn | ADD CENTRE
Over the past four weeks, Tanner Bruhn has averaged about 40% centre bounces plus spending some time playing on the wings. The increase in midfield minutes hasn’t seen his scoring explode yet. But if it does, expect his ownership to jump from the current 59% of leagues that own him.
Historically speaking, the addition of forward status for Shane Edwards would be significant. However, with just one score over 50 from his six games this year, I can’t see many coaches scampering to own him. So it might be worth grabbing out of the player pool if you think he can recapture some of his best form again.
Three scores of 60+ in his last four games isn’t amazing, but it;’s not horrific. Currently, we have 50 forwards averaging 70 or more, so depending on the league’s depth, Will Hoskin-Elliott might be someone worth grabbing as a forward bench option.
Jack Ziebell | ADD FORWARD
Another straightforward add for UltimateFooty. Over the past month, the Kangaroos have deployed Jack Ziebell as forward, and it’s no surprise that the DPP has followed suit.
Alex Davies | ADD FORWARD
This gain might be more helpful for a deeper keeper or dynasty leagues. In a seasonal league of any size, you shouldn’t be looking at players who currently average under 40.
Matt Guelfi | ADD FORWARD
In Matt Guelfi’s last three weeks, he’s scored 66, 73 & 65. It’s not pretty, but given the depth of our forward this year, it’s something to consider. Players that can score 60+ with frequency might end up on our benches. It’s scary, but that’s what 2022 is delivering so far!
Darcy Fort | ADD FORWARD
The former Cat is plugging along ok with a couple of scores of 70+ and a reasonable RUC/FWD split at Brisbane. His scoring isn’t amazing, but many struggles to get decent depth in our forward lines. With Darcy Fort, they could be soon getting some versatility and the potential of looping the odd good score. A potentially more helpful DPP gain than we realise.
After rounds 3, 6, 9, 12 & 15, the drafting format of Ultimate Footy awards additional player positions to players that have had a role change in the season. On Wednesday, we’ll confirm with you exclusively which players WILL gain a new position, but before then, here are some players we believe would be in consideration for obtaining a new positional status.
The moment Christian Salem went down with an early injury in round one, the Demons deployed Angus Brayshaw as the primary ball mover across halfback. It’s important to note he was already playing in the backline in that game as the Demons had several regular defenders missing. In this role, he’s getting plenty of uncontested marks and possessions. So it’s no surprise that the fantasy points are flowing for him in this role; he’s got history (all be it distant now) of being a genuine proven performer. Surely the gang have seen enough; it must be a formality he gets BACK status.
Dayne Zorko | ADD BACK
Historically, with DPP additions, UltimateFooty is more conservative when handing them out to big-name players like Dayne Zorko. However, there’s no mistake Zorko is playing outside of the midfield and through the Lions backline. After a sample size of three matches, UF opted for more data. But like Brayshaw above, the data is overwhelming now, a must add!
David Swallow | ADD BACK
I’m borderline on whether UltimateFooty allocates this for David Swallow. For the better part of the last six weeks, he’s spent the primary function across the halfback for the Suns. However, he tagged Lachie Neale this round and was a heavy presence for the Suns at centre bounce. I think he’s done enough, but it wouldn’t shock me if last weekend was enough for UF to pump the breaks on a position add.
The Swans star continues to showcase why he’s one of the best fantasy buys of the year. While Isaac Heeney is still spending a ton of time inside forward 50, he’s getting plenty of time up the ground. At first glance, it might not seem relevant, but as the season goes on, squad versatility is everything and can even be a season winning factor. It’s not an exciting ‘gain’ by name, but my functionality it’s huge!
Zak Butters | ADD MID
Cntrl C & Cntrl V! The exact same sentiment for Zak Butters as it is for Heeney.
Nick Martin | ADD MID
Don’t just look at the CBA data for projecting DPPs; that’s not the whole story. Especially in the case of Nic Martin. His midfield time isn’t at centre bounces but rather on the wing. His relevance in drafts won’t increase, but his value to his owners through flexibility will.
The former Cat is plugging along ok with a couple of scores of 70+ and a reasonable RUC/FWD split at Brisbane. His scoring isn’t amazing, but many struggles to get decent depth in our forward lines. With Darcy Fort, they could be soon getting some versatility and the potential of looping the odd good score. A potentially more helpful DPP gain than we realise.
Connor Macdonald | ADD FWD
The Hawks are in rebuild mode, and as a result, some of the future midfield brigades are getting the education of playing multiple roles beyond just centre bounces. The junior ball magnet plays his role both through the midfield and as a small-medium forward.
After rounds 3, 6, 9 & 12 the drafting format of Ultimate Footy awards additional player positions to players that have had a role change in the season. As always players are required to have played a minimum of 3 games to be eligible and to be playing the new position as their primary role in the side. Let’s look at who they are and their relevance to your draft sides and leagues.
I’m not surprised that Scott Pendlebury has back status. But I didn’t think we’d get it just yet. Histrocially, UF have been on the more conservative side in allocating DPP, especially in forwards or backs. So while I thought he’d get it in round six, his owners will be thrilled with this allocation now. His average of 88 places him now inside the top 20 backs by averages and should be coaches D1 or D2 on field.
Jordan Clark | ADD BACK
Another good addition for coaches. As a centre, only Jordan Clark, an average of 72.7, is only just rosterable for most leagues. However, he becomes a genuine on-field option or an emergency in deeper leagues as a back. He’s already owned by 83% of leagues, but that number will push into the ’90s now that he’s gained DPP.
The most significant value that Bailey Scott currently offers in draft leagues is his forward status. And presently, he’s in just 15% of teams. So the DPP is a good addition, but the value he offers to coaches is minimal.
Nick Daicos | ADD BACK
The Magpie rookie has been superb across halfback so far for Collingwood and will be a certainty to gain back status on Wednesday. He moves from a bench/emergency coverage in the midfield line to being a player you can place on the ground with confidence. Who knows, he might even be some teams D1.
Sam Petrevski-Seton | ADD CENTRE Dan Houston | ADD CENTRE Jordan Dawson | ADD CENTRE
I’ve chosen to do just one summary for all three of these players, as the key point is the same. Gaining centre staus adds squad flexibility, not so much a player’s relevance.
The Tigers have started to have an eye to the future, and it’s clear that Noah Balta as a forward is something the club like the look of. An average of 60 isn’t horrible, but it won’t be something to celebrate even in a weakened forward line in many leagues. However, it could add some handy squad flexibility in the category scoring leagues or deeper dynasty leagues.
Tom De Koning | ADD FWD
Category scoring leagues will be thrilled with this addition. Hitouts from a forward are a premium win. Tom De Koning is the future ruck of the Blues, but right now, he’s split with Marc Piitonet. The benefit of him getting forward is that IF the split starts to become more favourable with him in the ruck than forward, this could be a considerable gain.
Todd Goldstein | ADD FWD
The rebuild of the Kangaroos is well underway. As a result, some of the club elders are stepping back into the shadows. In the ruck division, the emergence of Tristan Xerri has allowed them to use Todd Goldstein as the relief ruck and more predominantly inside forward 50. With an ADP of 91.5, he’s in the gun for many coaches as a ‘bust.’ But the season is still young.
Awaiting More Data
The biggest names coaches were angling for were Angus Brayshaw and Dayne Zoko to get back status. However, UltimateFooty has opted to get more game data before adding the staus. And given both are averaging strongly enough to be on the field in our centre line. So keep an eye out for the round 6 allocations.
Podcast
Tune in as MJ & Jimmy discuss all the players that have picked up DPP!
After rounds 3, 6, 9, 12 & 15 the drafting format of Ultimate Footy awards additional player positions to players that have had a role change in the season. On Wednesday, we’ll confirm with you exclusively which players WILL gain a new position, but before then, here are some players we believe would be in consideration for obtaining a new positional status.
The moment Christian Salem went down with an early injury in round one, the Demons deployed Angus Brayshaw as the primary ball mover across halfback. It’s important to note he was already playing in the backline in that game as the Demons had several regular defenders missing. In this role, he’s getting plenty of uncontested marks and possessions. So it’s no surprise that the fantasy points are flowing for him in this role; he’s got history (all be it distant now) of being a genuine proven performer.
His DPP addition should be a formality and will add a massive boost to coaches that own him and have enjoyed his scores of 86, 83 & 156. Additionally, given that he was drafted in just 71% of teams, it could be an early reward for many coaches who picked him up from the waivers.
Nick Daicos | ADD BACK
This will be one of the most straightforward and most anticipated gains from UltimateFooty in 2022. The Magpie rookie has been superb across halfback so far for Collingwood and will be a certainty to gain back status on Wednesday. He moves from a bench/emergency coverage in the midfield line to being a player you can place on the ground with confidence. Who knows, he might even be some teams D1.
Another good addition for coaches. As a centre, only Jordan Clark, an average of 72.7, is only just rosterable for most leagues. However, he becomes a genuine on-field option or an emergency in deeper leagues as a back. He’s already owned by 83% of leagues, but that number will push into the ’90s if this DPP lands.
Dayne Zorko | ADD BACK
Historically, with DPP additions, UltimateFooty is more conservative when handing them out to big-name players like Dayne Zorko. There’s no mistake Zorko is playing outside of the midfield and through the Lions backline. But it is only a sample size of three matches. I think he’s in consideration, but ultimately they’ll wait for more games before adding back status.
Scott Pendlebury | ADD BACK
I could almost copy and paste the sentiment of Zorko here for Scott Pendlebury. In short, I think the gang at UF will wait for more of a data timeline before pulling the trigger, especially after he attended 50% CBA’s last week.
David Swallow | ADD BACK
I’m borderline on whether UltimateFooty allocates this for David Swallow now, or like Zorko and Pendls, they wait a few more weeks. The thing going in David’s favour might be that he’s currently averaging a poor 56. So even if he does gain DPP, it won’t shake up the league drastically.
The rebuild of the Kangaroos is well underway. As a result, some of the club elders are stepping back into the shadows. In the ruck division, the emergence of Tristan Xerri has allowed them to use Todd Goldstein as the relief ruck and more predominantly inside forward 50. With an ADP of 91.5, he’s in the gun for many coaches as a ‘bust.’ But the season is still young. The likely DPP gain could become handy later in the year; we never can fully know what’s ahead.
Noah Balta | ADD FWD
The Tigers have started to have an eye to the future, and it’s clear that Noah Balta as a forward is something the club like the look of. An average of 60 isn’t horrible, but it won’t be something to celebrate even in a weakened forward line in many leagues. However, it could add some handy squad flexibility in the category scoring leagues or deeper dynasty leagues.
Darcy Fort | ADD FWD
The former Cat is plugging along ok with two scores of 70+, and a reasonable RUC/FWD split at Brisbane. His scoring isn’t amazing, but many are struggling to get decent depth in our forward lines. With Darcy Fort, they could be soon getting some versatility and the potential of looping the odd good score. A potentially more helpful DPP gain than we realize.
Every year, UltimateFooty reveals an additional group of Dual Position players, which extends the changes handed down by champion data. Let’s take a look through the seventeen additional players and their relevance to your UltimateFooty Drafts.
In 2021 Luke McDonald lost the monopoly share as the distributor out of the Kangaroos defence. Injuries disrupted his season to play just eleven matches and have his role float between the wing and the backline. With an average draft position of 76 last year, it was a disaster of a return from games played and an average of 68.
Many were hopeful of returning to the final eight games of the 2020 season in UltimateFooty. In the quarterback role, Luke was sensational. He averaged 88.2, including 123, 121, 118 and three 80+ scores. Remembering in 2020 ’80s were the new 100′ That’s a more than good performance.
Did Aaron Hall get the quarterback role by design? I’d propose it might not have been the original plan from North, but he indeed forced them into it with his success. Does an entire offseason of training see McDonald get back his share of the ball? If so, this could be a big watchlist moment for coaches. The addition of BACK status makes him relevant again on draft day and lowers the scoring bar to make him a rosterable play in 2022.
Nathan Murphy
One that might have more dynasty or keeper league coaches is the DPP addition to Nathan Murphy. He’s shown some promise in his limited games, but as the Magpies have committed to a full rebuild, he should be right in contention for a regular role. Unfortunately, right now, the UltimateFooty scoring hasn’t shown itself. An average of 45.9 and a personal best score of 70 doesn’t exactly set the world alight.
Josh Battle
He’s forward; then he’s back. He’s forward again and now back… again. St Kilda had thrown Josh Battle positionally around multiple times of the year. I think he looks more at home inside defensive 50. His average of 61. 6 isn’t great, but he does have some scoring capacity. Last season he had two scores of 90+ and an extra two games of 80+. Depending on the depth of squads or the number of coaches, his back/forward status might be a useful bench option.
Billy Frampton
Based on his seasonal average of 47, Billy Frampton won’t be someone that anyone will be looking for to draft in many leagues. The Crows tried to reinvent him as an intercepting defender, and his best scoring game in that role was a 77 against Essendon. At best, it’s a waiver-wire option; don’t use a pick on him. The only impact of getting back status is that he’ll be ineligible to gain ruck status. He’s third in line ruck behind Reilly O’Brien and Kieran Strauchan, so it’ll take some injuries for that to eventuate anyway.
This is a prime example of when gaining centre status is justified but irrelevant for UltimateFooty players. His average of 72.8 will make him someone’s D3 or D4 on draft day, but he’ll rarely be needed to play in your centre line. Of course, if the Tigers suffer another poor year of injury luck, he might get some additional midfield time, but if that eventuates, it’ll only benefit the coach that’s already playing him down back.
Trent Bianco
I rate Trent Bianco as a great talent to pursue in keeper or dynasty leagues. Despite averaging just 61 last season, it was the way he went about building his scoring that’s got coaches excited. He’s relevant in drafts as a late-round forward flyer. There’s been some discussion that Bianco is flagged as a potential option to run through the Magpies backline. If that eventuates, Bianco won’t be illegible for gaining that status.
Zak Butters
The addition of centre status is warranted to Zak Butters. It also feels like it’s the gain we knew we’d get during the season if it wasn’t allocated. He was a regular option in the midfield attending 30% of the power centre bounces in his games. His greatest value is a forward, where many forecast him to become an F1 option. However, this DPP is a valuable flexibility moment in your squad.
Jaidyn Stephenson
I could almost copy and paste the sentiments above for Butters for Jaidyen Stephenson. The classy and crafty player centre/forward split his season across the Kangaroo wings and inside 50. I love his scoring ceiling, and while he won’t be selected at last seasons average draft position of 138, he should still be a solid forward. The position gain will be a handy squad versatility move.
ADD RUCK
Mark Blicavs
I like the addition of Mark Blicavs into this line. His RUC/BACK status DPP will give coaches some flexibility through the ruck division and be another viable late option for those looming to ‘punt’ late on rucks in the draft. Furthermore, if you play in a category league or some other custom scoring elements, he could be a blinder selection given his ability to win intercept marks, spoils and hitouts.
Tristan Xerri
I have no desire to own Tristan Xerri in any draft league. He’s the fourth ruck in line at North behind Todd Goldstein, recruit Callum Coleman-Jones and midseason draftee Jacob Edwards. Things will be going bad at Arden Street if he’s the #1 ruck, and they’ll be going worse for your draft team if he’s someone you ever need to bring on your roster, let alone play.
Joel Amartey
In his first four games, Joel Amartey scores included a 70, 74 & 92. He certainly has scoring potential, but it’ll take some injuries to the Swans talls stocks for him to get games. Even more so with Peter Ladhams into the ruck/forward stocks. A waiver wire option if the Swans get some poor injury luck.
Mabior Chol does have an insane highlight reel, but he’s not the most prominent scoring option that’s been awarded a new position. The new DPP adds greater value for the coach that does draft Jarrod Witts as their ruckmen. As a handcuff selection, Chol was always the prime target late on drafts day, but now as an R/F, he can also provide on-field cover as a forward if you require it. Last year he averaged 60, and I think at best he can add another five to eight points per game of scoring upside.
Jack Billings
One of arguably the two prominent inclusions from UltimateFooty in this preseason position updated. Jack Billings has long been a high half-forward who has also pushed up across St Kilda’s wings. Based on his average of 83.2, he cracks into the top dozen forwards based on 2021 averages. The addition of forward status makes him relevant as he moves from being an M7 to bench option in most leagues to a legitimate possibility of being an F1.
In 2021Billings started last year with a 100, 122, 80 & 97. Getting scoring trends like that in a weak forward division is a huge gain. Additionally, he has multiple years over his career where he’s a proven 85-95 average range performer. This is a significant inclusion from UltimateFooty! And I’m a big fan of it.
Brandan Parfitt
Brandan Parfitt isn’t one of the most recognizable ins as a new centre/forward based on name value. But based on his scoring power and the relatively low top end of forwards, he is a significant inclusion to the game. His seasonal average last year of 76.6 puts him ranked inside the top 25 forwards. Last season he scored three tons, plus four additional games of 90+.
Parfitt is the only Geelong midfielder not holding a pensions card, so his youthfulness and defensive workrate will be vital for the club’s hopes at another deep final push. This positional allocation moves him from a likely super late draft day pick to a viable F3. Indeed, one that’s cause for adjusting your forward rankings. It won’t shock me to see him head off draft boards as early as the second round.
Rowan Marshall
This is the big one from UltimateFooty! Adjust your draft rankings, ladies and gentlemen. The DPP of RUC/FWD is arguably one of the most valuable in the game. Rowan Marshall‘s average of 89.6 instantly makes him the #4 ranked forwards based on 2021 averages. He slides in just after the big three of Mitch Duncan, Josh Dunkley and Tim Taranto, who are possible top 20 selections on draft day. That in isolation is a solid number, but in the six games he played without Paddy Ryder, he averaged an increase to go at 103.7.
If by design or by necessity he gets more than a level share of the time in the ruck, Marshall could be one of the best decisions you make on draft day. Not just as a topline forward, but also with the flexibility of coverage in your ruck line. The ultimate WIN/WIN for any coach who owns him this year. It won’t shock me to see him head off draft boards as early as the second round. Monster positional gain added from UltimateFooty.
Deven Robertson
In keeper or dynasty leagues, coaches should have still been looking to hold onto Deven Robertson, but in single-season leagues as a centre only, he was a late pick up arguably at best. An average of 61 wasn’t exciting for many, but it’s layered with a few nice scores, including a career-high 93. it was injuries in 2021 that got him the opportunity in the best 22, and it’ll likely be injuries again that give him significant midfield minutes.
Still, he’s worth a later round selection as a forward, and an increase of 10-15 points per game would make him a viable F5.
Callum Ah Chee
Callum Ah Chee is an immensely talented player, but that hasn’t translated to UltimateFooty scoring. After a failed trial across halfback, the club moved him forward late in the year. However, with the return of Cam Rayner, he might struggle to get games. Regardless, a seasonal average of 41 and just one score over 60 means now position gain would add to his relevance.
I WANT MORE DPP’s
For 2021 yet again league commissioners will choose to allow (or not) for future DPP’s to be added into your league. After rounds 3, 6, 9, 12 & 15 we’ll bring to you exclusively the new DPP’s added to the game by UltimateFooty.
2022 LAUNCH DATE
No official launch date has been announced from UltimateFooty. Historically, the format has opened during the first week of February. After that, commissioners have an additional few days to get leagues set up and finalised before drafting can commence.
It’s here, MJ and Kane reveal who they believe are the marquee players to own in a keeper league. Here’s why they are the best of the best!
Sam Walsh
KANE
What a player Sam Walsh has been just three years into his career. He’s yet to miss a game and already posted averages of 92, 97 and a brilliant 109. Amazingly Walsh is 13th for total points across the last three years which is mental when you consider he’s just 21 years of age. Clearly, Walsh’s advantage over Steele and Macrae is his age. He’s five and six years younger than them respectively. To get what is likely a 110 average across the next 10 years is just insane and something I couldn’t turn down. His score build is phenomenally well-rounded. He averaged 30 disposals, six marks, 4.5 tackles and 0.5 goals. There’s nothing glaring missing from his game so it’s just going to be a slight increase across the board that takes him to new levels. Don’t overthink it, just pick Walsh and enjoy the spoils for the next decade.
MJ
In the next two seasons will Sam Walsh score the most points? Possibly. But in a keeper league, your not just thinking about the next two seasons. Rather, you should be thinking about the decade ahead. During this edition of the top 50 keepers, you’ve heard Kane & I discuss that it’s often between seasons six to eight for when a player hits their scoring peak. The phenomenal thing about Walsh is over his first three seasons he’s already a top 15 player for most points. The upside for the next 10 seasons is potentially immeasurable. At 21 years of age, he has the most upside in terms of years available, through in his perfect durability over his career and it’s hard to overlook him here. Sam Walsh is one of the best runners in the competition already. He wins the contested and uncontested footy, he applies defensive pressure through tackles and is supreme in his game day preparation. I believe Walsh at one is a clear no brainer, and a case could be made that he deserves to be in a tier all on his own.
Jack Steele
KANE
It was a phenomenal season from Jack Steele that has me convinced that this guy will be the highest scoring player across the next three years and could even reset the record books. In 2021 Steele averaged 121 points across all 22 games but it’s the second half of his season that has me excited. In his final 11 games Steele averaged a monster 134 points thanks to 32 touches, 5.5 marks, 9.4 tackles and 0.5 goals a game. Let’s revisit the record books for a moment. In 2014 Tom Rockliff averaged 134.7 points across 18 games with Brisbane, the highest by any player in fantasy history. In 2018 Tom Mitchell scored the most points in a season by averaging 129.1 across all 22 games. If there’s a player in the league that could challenge these two records it’s Jack Steele. His ball winning exploded in the back half of the year, with six of his 10 best ball winning performances coming in the last 10 games of the season. Looking even deeper, his three best ball winning games came in the last five games of the year, which were 37, 36 and 36 disposals respectively. I can definitely see Steele taking his career-high for disposals into the 40s so if he can do that a couple times in a season he’s a genuine shot at both records. If you’re only worried about the short to medium term Jack Steele is your man and should be your first pick. The long term looks great too for a guy that is about to turn 26 and is the clear star midfielder in his side.
MJ
I’ve long been a fan of Jack Steele. Even before his breakout 2020 season, Steele was a consistent 90’s averaging player. His score build was always heavily reliant on his tackle count, but if he became more of a ball winner he’d elevate himself to a top performing fantasy prospect. We saw this happen in 2020 when he returned 5 tons, 6 additional scores over 90 and just one score below 70. Remembering that ’80 was the new 100′ that’s an incredibly prolific scoring season factoring in the shorter quarters. He ended the season ranked fifth for total scoring and 10th by averages. His 2020 seasonal average of 90.9 is an adjusted average equivalent of 113. The question entering into 2021 was whether or not Steele had fully established himself as a fantasy performer, or if the shortened games suited his playing style. Jack answered these questions emphatically with an average of 121. It consisted of 19 tons, 11 of these were over 120, and nine were over 130 including 162 V Blues. As we discussed on the podcast he got better as the year went on including posting 12 consecutive tons to end the year. Arguably if he can maintain his back half scoring of 2021 for the entirety of a season he could rival the fantasy elite scoring of Tom Mitchell and Tom Rockliff. Along with this strong scoring capacity is his durability. Steele has missed just five games in five seasons as a Saint, but hasn’t missed in past two. When the 2022 season commences, he’ll be 26 years of age. That still leaves plenty more prime scoring seasons from this St Kilda star. Just between us, I think he’ll be the top scoring player next year and probably the year after too.
Jack Macrae
KANE
I’ve spoken at length on the podcast about the three year rolling window I use to evaluate players and Jack Macrae sits well clear on top of all three major metrics – durability, average and total points. The durability is perfect for Macrae. He’s played all 61 home and away games. Only 20 players have done that across the past three year stretch. His average of 115 across the past three years is No.1, and that’s on the back of three incredibly consistent seasons of 116, 113 and 116 seasonal averages. It’s no surprise then that Macrae is No.1 for total points. He’s scored 250 more points than Brodie Grundy (2nd), 1000 more points than Jack Crisp (16th) and 2000 more points than Jy Simpkin (50th). Those numbers are just insane. You can’t be more glowing of what Macrae has already achieved and I think we’ll see those 115 output continue for at least the next two seasons. With his neat kicking skills it’s easy to see him transition into a damaging half-forward in the later years of his career and continue to be a premium scorer going forward.
MJ
Over the past eight seasons, Jackson Macrae has barely put a foot wrong. Since 2014 he’s had seven seasonal averages over 104 including 122 and multiple over 115.
In addition to his scoring consistency, Macrae has missed just two games in the past five years. he hasn’t missed a match since July 22nd 2018. Jackson has just turned 27, and during the past 4 years, he’s averaged 115 or higher. I see nothing in the way he plays or Dogs use him to suggest his scoring dries up anytime soon. For the 2021 AFL season, he ranked first in the league for disposals, 4th for score involvements, 5th inside ’50s, 3rd for Frees for, 10th for meters gained and 12th tackles. This further highlights the scoring splits of Macrae and how near imp[ossible he is to stop. Despite having three scores of 145 or higher this year, the knock-on Macrae is a gradual dip in the conversion of his 100’s into big tons. But with the frequency he has hit and should keep hitting the triple figure mark, it’s a very small ‘knock’ at best.
They are among some of the best fantasy players in the game. You should have no shocks from this point on in MJ and Kane’s keeper league rankings. The time is now for you to jump into reading who makes tier #2.
Clayton Oliver
KANE
Elite is the name of the tier and it’s fitting for Clayton Oliver. Durability: he hasn’t missed a game in the past five seasons. Scoring: averaged 100+ in his past five seasons. Including an adjusted 115 in 2020 and 109 in 2018 and 2021. Total points: Only Jack Macrae and Brodie Grundy have scored more total points across the last three years. Role: as pure a centre bounce midfielder you can get and now he’s able to roll forward too. His time on ground is up to 88% now as a result, which is extremely impressive for a midfielder and five percent higher than any of his previous seasons. Age: 24 years of age so has at least five years of prime ahead. Summary: bulletproof player who only missed out on tier 1 because he doesn’t seem to have 120+ heights on his horizon.
MJ
True story, I found it hard to not put Clayton Oliver in the top tier. He’s had five straight seasons of playing every game and averaged over 100 in all of these. Throw in the fact that he’s still just 24 years of age and we’ve got ourselves a potential hall of fame fantasy player. While he does lack the frequency of ceiling of others inside the top 10 ranks, he boasts a scoring basement that many would be jealous of. Oliver has had just four sub 80 scores in his past 61 games. Not a bad effort!
Last year he ranked 11th for total points, while he was second in 2020 and 10th in 2019. So for all the ‘lack of ceiling’ talk, he still has been one of the best keeper prospects lately. Has he reached the peak of his powers? Unlikely given his age. This means the already bulletproof Mr 105 could easily elevate himself further in the game again.
Zach Merrett
KANE
Yet again Zach Merrett showed why he’s one of the best fantasy players in the game in 2021. The Essendon midfielder played all 22 games and averaged 110 points, with 17 of his scores 100+. Despite only being 26 years old Merrett has already produced seven 90+ seasons, six 100+ seasons and four 110+ seasons, that’s just ridiculous for a player with another five premium years ahead of him. Across the past three seasons he ranks fourth for total points and in the past six seasons he’s missed just the two games, both of which were due to suspension. Outside of a Caleb Serong tag in Round 9 that kept him to 67 points, Merrett was able to work through the attention. With Darcy Parish’s rapid rise the tag didn’t seem to come Merrett’s way at all in the second half of the year, which is massive for his fantasy numbers going forward. Merrett is right in the prime of his career and with the Bombers seemingly on the verge of becoming a regular finals side and building towards a premiership there’s a lot going for Merrett.
MJ
Over the better part of six years, Zach Merrett has been among the best players to own in a keeper league. In this time his lowest seasonal average is 101, while he’s averaged over 110 in more than half of them. Just last season alone he scored 17 tons, 7 of them over 120 including 3 x 140+. When you add into the mix he’s missed only two games (both suspension) since the start of 2016 season and it paints a fairly strong picture. Having just turned 26 years of age Merrett, owners will have plenty of great scoring seasons especially with teammate Darcy Parish now seemingly more impacted by the tag. For the next four seasons I can see a world where he’s a top 10 scoring player each year. Additionally, as he ages into his 30’s I believe he’ll still be a strong scoring option and pick up DPP. His footy IQ and elite foot skills will make him a brilliant half back or half forward in the later career seasons.
Brodie Grundy
KANE
After spending the past three years as the consensus number one pick in a keeper league, Brodie Grundy finds himself outside of tier 1. But it’s far from doom and gloom for the Collingwood ruckman. Based on his lofty heights of 2018-2020 where he played every game and produced seasonal averages of 120, 122 and 114 respectively, 2021 was underwhelming. Grundy averaged 106 points and missed two games due to a neck injury. Let that settle in for a second, an underwhelming season was 106 across 20 games, most other players could only dream of numbers like that. Prior to his injury in Round 11 against Geelong, Grundy was averaging 115 points and had scores of 152 and 142 to his name. He returned from injury in Round 15 and averaged 101 points in his remaining 10 games, with his scoring frankly all over the shop. Three of his scores were sub 80, while his two best were a respectable 129 and 139. Grundy will turn 28 during next season and there’s still plenty in the tank. You’re already getting a discount with his injury impacted scores and the Pies having an extremely poor season as a side. I think the 120 days are gone but there’s a couple 110-115 seasons left. We all know the pain of consistently looking for a reliable ruckman so many will still be happy to take Grundy at the top of the draft and alleviate that concern.
MJ
Twelve months ago you could make a case that Brodie Grundy wasn’t just a top tier selection, but the obvious first selection. But has his slide down a tier had more to do with the rise of others? Arguably not. As good as the tier one guys are, I believe his scoring capacity still reigns in the same scoring realms we’ve seen previously. As discussed on the podcast, he was averaging 115 up til his freak injury mid-season. By mid-2022 Grundy will have turned 28, and while he might be among the elders of this tier he’s still got a lot to offer. I’m of the opinion his 120+ days might be gone, but the 110+ scores still look likely for the next few seasons. Don’t forget ruckmen often only hit their prime in the late ’20s. One of the hardest and most frustrating positions to secure in a keeper league is a long term ruckman. Ideally, you don’t want to spend multiple seasons and multiple draft picks on hoping to lock down this one positional line. The advantage of Grundy is he secures you not only the likely top scoring ruck for the coming few seasons, but additionally, he allows your drafting and list strategy to be freed up.
Tom Mitchell
KANE
Two and half years after his record breaking 2018 campaign that saw him record more fantasy points in a season than any other player (129 average across all 22 games), Tom Mitchell was back to his best in 2021. In his 11 games post bye Mitchell averaged 126 points, scored a ton in every game and went at a ridiculous 35 disposals, five marks, six tackles and also kicked seven goals in that time. Clearly the concern with Mitchell is his age. At 29 years of age you need to be thinking about how to win premiership in 2022 and 2023. That means taking guys that are ready made scorers right now. The positive with Mitchell if you’re not in contention by the trade deadline is that you can sell him to a contender and try and reset your list with some younger players. If you want instant success taking Mitchell early in the first round makes a lot of sense.
MJ
Let’s be honest, if you have a mid range first round draft pick, you’re eyeing off Tom Mitchell and with good reason too. Last year he ranked fifth for total points across the 2021 season and scored 19 tons. The additionally encouraging element is how ‘Titch’ ended the season as it started to emulate his career best seasons. Tom had a post-bye stretch of 11 games, with an average of 126 and the lowest score of 105. He starts the season at 28, meaning that coaches who draft him will be needed to capitalise on his peak scoring and be in keeper league premiership contention immediately. If not, then he’ll provide a high value trade asset if your side is falling beyond the finals. I can see two, maybe three more peak scoring seasons of Tom before the scoring decline hits.
Touk Miller
KANE
I don’t know what odds you would have got for Touk Miller to be the highest averaging player in fantasy in 2021 but you probably could have retired off the back of it. Not only did Miller average 122 points, but from Round 4-21 he averaged 129 and from Round 11-21 he went at 133. Those numbers stack up with some of the best players to ever grace a fantasy format. The question remains though, what can we expect going forward. For mine everything fell Miller’s way this year. Matt Rowell was severely limited due to injury, while Lachie Weller and Hugh Greenwood also missed time. With players returning from injury and more high-quality draftees emerging I think that eats away at Miller a bit. However, you can’t deny that Miller is one of the hardest working players in the AFL, both in the contest and on the outside, which makes him near impossible to stop. I see a regression but I still have him in the 105-115 range, which at 25 years of age is a fantastic return.
MJ
Whenever a player has a season like his 2021, keeper coaches have to ask themselves this question. Is this his new reality or a unicorn season? If you forecast correctly you pay for him at his correct point of value in a draft. If you get it wrong you risk either missing one of the next uber players or overpaying on someone. His 2021 season consisted of 17 scores of 100 or more including a massive 11 of them over 130. On his way to averaging 122 he had just one score beneath 80 all year. So what was the real cause of his growth? It came off the back of his elite endurance and high work rate. As a result, his scoring boost came in uncontested possessions and tackles. You can’t deny his season, but backing up 120 seasons, let alone 115 is rare. Thankfully at 25 times is on his side.
Lachie Whitfield’s upside is as good as it gets. Having a defender who can average 120 is unheard of, but that’s the ceiling Whitfield possesses. In 2019 he averaged 114 points, but when you remove his two injury impacted scores, that average rises to 122. In 2020 he averaged 107 adjusted points, but when you remove his concussion impacted game, that average jumps to 113. In 2021 he averaged 95 points, but when you remove his concussion impacted game that average goes to 100. I think you catch my drift now. When Whitfield is on the field and healthy, he’s one of the best scorers in the game, let alone as a back or forward. It’s worth noting too that in draft you have a time on ground injury threshold that allows you to avoid a lot of these types of scores and field your emergency. Clearly, the other factor you have to acknowledge is that for whatever reason Whitfield does miss games. This year it was a nasty liver injury in the preseason that saw him miss the opening six games of the season. There also is some concern about what role he has in the Giants team. Whitfield has been deployed as deep as the Giants kick in taker who attacks from D50 or as high as a half-forward who pushes into the midfield and roams the ground. I don’t see these different roles yielding massively different outputs but it’s not as clear cut as other players like Jake Lloyd. I’m always drawn to the upside and Whitfield is the type of guy that any season could be the most valuable player in the game and if you’re chasing premierships that’s exactly what you want.
MJ
12 months ago I would have argued like Taranto Lachie Whitfield is a top tier guy. In fact, a case could’ve been made that he’s the player you should pick with the first pick in a new keeper league. However, in the eyes of some, the concerns are starting to build. For me, they aren’t significant enough to scare me from picking him. However, it’s probably enough to fade him a tier or two. When fit he’s a jet, but the games missed and in game injuries are slowly building. From a ‘glass half full’ perspective, none of these injuries really are related and are more on the ‘unlucky’ scale than anything else. Over the past three season we’ve seen him as one of the most valuable commodities in the draft as both a defender and forward. In 2019 he averaged 113 from 16 games, which featured 13 tons and a likely career high 190. 11 of his 15 games in 2020 where a BCV adjusted 100+ score, while Kane has already touched on his 2021 season. Whitfield is a kick first player, and even when tagged still uses his elite endurance to get into damaging spaces. With the departures of Callum Mills and Rory Laird from the fantasy backline it opens up the possibility of Lachie being the top defender for 2022. I for one believe he will be. There is a risk that he becomes a midfielder only in the future, but given his positional versatility he should have multiple seasons where he’s a top tier defender or forward should that eventuate.
Christian Petracca
KANE
It’s been an incredible past two seasons for Christian Petracca. He’s played all 39 home and away games and averaged 110 points, which puts him top 10 for total points across that time. The incredible part of Petracca’s game at the moment is his consistency. Only once this year did he dip below 80 and 14 times he delivered a ton. One of the main reasons for his consistency to me is his score build. In 2021 he averaged 29 disposals, 14 contested possessions, five marks, four tackles and a goal a game. There’s literally no category he’s deficit in. Additionally, he doesn’t get the tag because there’s no one who can match his power in the contest, movement around the ground and forward craft inside 50. The thing I think a lot of people are missing is his scoring power. In the last 12 games of the season, which stretches from Round 15 post bye all the way to the Grand Final, he averaged 117 points. In that span he reeled off 10 tons, five of which were 125+. This indicates to me there’s room for Petracca to improve on that career best average of 111 in the upcoming seasons. Throw in the likelihood that he’ll finish his career as a mid-forward and there’s not a lot not to like about Trac!
MJ
Christian Petracca is one of my favourites to own in a keeper league. The breakout took longer than keeper coaches wanted, but now that it’s happened it’s a thing of beauty. With the adjusted game time and scores of 2020, it’s always challenging to put too much weight into the breakout. While he delivered an adjusted 108 keeper coaches will feel validated in his scoring potential after his 2021 season. In 2021 he averaged 110.8, scored 14 tons including 7 over 120. Oddly, he had a seven games stretch midseason where he had only 2 tons. But the front and back end of the season was fire! CP5 averaged 115 over the first 6 and again 115 in the last 10. So arguably, he’s still got some more upside in him. Equally as valuable as his scoring ability is his durability. Petracca has missed only one game in five years. I believe he’s the best player in the game right now, and opposition coaches can attest that night now he’s near impossible to stop. As we discussed in the podcast, don’t be shocked to see him regaining MID/FWD DPP in various parts of his career not just in his final few seasons.
Callum Mills
KANE
We finally saw the role change we’d all been waiting for in 2021 from Callum Mills and he didn’t disappoint. Mills averaged 110 from his 18 games, but it jumps to 112 points if you remove Round 23 where he was subbed out with Achilles soreness in the third term. Consistency was the key to Mills’ fantasy game. In all 17 of his healthy games he scored 85 or more points and in 13 games he scored triple figures, including a 152 and 142. And again it’s no surprise that Mills has an extremely well-rounded scoring profile (28 disposals, 10 contested possessions, six marks and five tackles.) The key for Mills going forward is can he start producing more ceiling games. Outside of his aforementioned 152 and 142, his only other 120+ scores were 133 and 121. We can’t expect a better floor but if he can start converting his 110s into 120-130s then a 115 average is within reach. Even if Mills is unable to up those ceiling games at 24 years of age he shapes as a top 10 midfielder for the next 5 years and there’s always the possibility for him to regain back status at the end of his career.
MJ
The role and scoring breakout finally happened! Keeper league owners for multiple seasons have been awaiting what we saw in 2021. Callum Mills is an unassuming fantasy scorer. Those who watch the game (not the fantasty scoring during it) can be fooled into thinking he’s not scoring well. However, as Matt Boyd did for the better part of a decade, Mills just finds a way to get involved in everything and without copping much attention. His scoring breakdown is well rounded. Consisting of 39% kicks, 24% handballs, 16% marks and 19% tackles. To average 110 and to only deliver 3 games over 130 highlights his low scoring deviation and consistency. Mills will enter the 2022 season as a midfielder and farewell his defensive eligibility. The only thing we haven’t seen Callum encounter or overcome is how he handles a tag. But at 187cm and spending the majority of his AFL career as a defender, I think he’s had a solid apprenticeship to handle whatever comes his way. He may never become a player that delivers you a 120+ season, but he should be a highly valuable keeper commodity for the next 8+ seasons.
Tim Taranto
KANE
Tim Taranto bounced back from an injury-interrupted 2020 in a major way averaging 108 points. While his average wasn’t quite the same as his career best of 113 in 2019, for the majority of the season he was on pace for a career-best year. From Round 1 to 18 he averaged 114 points, which included 13 tons and a lowest score of 86. However, in Round 19 there was a clear role change from centre bounce midfielder to forward. In the four games he played as a predominant forward he averaged 77 points and had a highest score of 98. This is clearly a massive concern for a player you’re drafting in the first two rounds of a keeper and while there’s some risk this role shift could continue I don’t think it’s that likely. I tend to think Taranto might have been carrying an injury and thus moved out of the midfield to protect him. Across his first 91 AFL games only once did he fail to lay a tackle and that was a 61% time on ground performance in his first season. In Round 19 and 20 this year he failed to lay a tackle and those were the two games he spent bulk time forward. To have a 23-year-old that has already produced averages of 113, 108, 94 and 91 inside his first five seasons at AFL level is insane. At worst you’re getting a top 30 midfielder for the next five years at best you could be getting a top five midfielder for the next 10 with the possibility of picking up dpp along the way.
MJ
Tim Taranto is the perfect reminder of how a player can move up and down the tiers within a season for keeper leagues. If this were being created mid-season you’d be hard pressed to not put him into one of the top 2 tiers. So why the slide to tier three? It’s relatively simple. Role! I never in a million years thought that Leon Cameron would use ‘TT’ in a primary role other than as an inside midfielder. However, in the final 5 weeks is when the role shifting started and he started playing more as a half-forward. During the first 17 games of the season, he averaged 113, posted 13 tons and had just one score under 90. In the final five games, he averaged 88. But that’s inflated as his big sole ton (132), was where he played back as a midfielder when Josh Kelly was a late out. His scoring ceiling is certainly limited if he plays significant midfield minutes. The potential upside is that if that role holds long enough he’d be a candidate to gain MID/FWD DPP. I don’t see any risk of selecting ‘TT’ in this tier, and at this point of a keeper draft, you cannot afford the risk. At best the 23 year old delivers on his proven history as a 110+ midfielder. Worst case scenario is he splits his time between midfield and forward but not enough to gain DPP. Therefore he probably becomes a 95 mid. Taranto will give his owner another 7-8 seasons of top tier scoring potential. I for one, see him delivering a ton in every single season during that stretch of time.
Josh Dunkley
KANE
I have to preface this article by saying I may be Josh Dunkley’s biggest fantasy believer. If you’ve listened to me talk about him on any podcast you’d know how highly I regard him and I think it’s warranted. So far his fantasy journey has had everything. In his first season he averaged 80 points and was part of the Bulldogs historic premiership. Year two a shoulder injury restricted him to just six games. Year three and four is where the fantasy potential started to become obvious to everyone. In 2018 he averaged 96 points, but in his 10 games post bye he went at 109. In 2019 he averaged a career-high 111 points but his season average again doesn’t tell the full story. In the first six games of the season he played forward for an average of 78 points. In Round 7 and for the remaining 16 games of the season he became a pure centre bounce midfielder and exploded, averaging 124 across the stretch. Included in that run were scores of 189, 158, 150 and 145, to showcase his elite ceiling. Unfortunately for Dunkley, year five and six have mirrored each other. An injury to his ankle in 2020 limited him to 11 home and away games, while a shoulder injury in 2021 kept him to 11 home and away games also. Despite missing large chunks of both seasons he’s still averaged 90+, which far from kills you. A lot of coaches will be scared off by his recent run of injury and inconsistent scoring (I think the two are closely linked) and overlook him inside the first two rounds but I think the upside is so high that he could be the best scorer in fantasy across the next five seasons.
MJ
Some might be too turned away to grab Josh Dunkley this high in a keeper league, but his upside has his scoring potential up there with the best. Unlike others on the list, his scoring forecast isn’t based on an unproven potential. Rather on what he has done. Over the final sixteen matches of his 2019 season, he scored 14 tons, 9 of them were above 120, and 4 over 140 and an average of 123 after the move. This is a perfect foreshadowing of what he delivered at the stuff of 2021. Before succumbing to a shoulder injury that required a reconstruction he was averaging 115 in the first six weeks of the year. In all of these games, he scored a ton, with a seasonal high including a 151. Coming back from such a serious injury in season is an incredible effort. Throw in the fact he had to quarantine for 2 weeks after visiting a covid exposure site and it was a slower return to scoring than what he and his owners would’ve liked. Yet, over the last three finals, his tackle count started to return along with his contested possessions. In these games, he scored 95, 101 & 83. Josh is still just 24, so time is on his side for his owners to continue to reap the benefits of his scoring. Personally, I believe he’ll retain MID/FWD status and be the top scoring forward of 2022.
Rory Laird
KANE
What a fantasy player Rory Laird is. Recruited off the rookie list he’s already produced seven premium seasons and none better than 2021. Playing as a centre bounce midfielder Laird averaged a career-high 112 points and reeled off 18 tons. Only once did he score sub 90 and that was a 75. The standout number for Laird though is clearly how he finished the season. From Round 12 to Round 23 he hit triple figures in every game and averaged 120 points. We know Laird is an incredible ball-winner (he averaged 32 disposals this year) but it was his six tackles a game that impressed me as his previous best was four and shows how well he adapted to the role change. In addition to his scoring prowess, Laird boasts near-perfect durability and always has the possibility of regaining back status at some point in his career. The one concern I see floated is the return of Matt Crouch and what impact that could have. I’m not overly fussed as I don’t see Crouch’s return reducing Laird’s CBA’s, particularly with Sloane likely to be phased out of the midfield as he enters the twilight of his career. At 28 years old you still have 3 years at least of strong scoring from a player who has shown to be a premium as a midfielder or defender. Throw in that he’s available every week, you can’t go wrong with Laird.
MJ
Rory Laird has been one of the best defensive premiums for years. Between 2016 – 2020 he’s averaged 97, 100, 108, 97 and an adjusted 99 BCV. Midway through 2020, he had a role change as a pure midfielder. From then on in he averaged an adjusted 112, a foreshadowing of what was to come this season. In 2021 this scoring trend continued. He averaged 111, scored 18 tons including 6 over 120. Throw in the fact he dipped his scoring beneath 90 just once and it was a near perfect season. Kane’s already highlighted the strong end to the season which would provide coaches with some confidence that perhaps he’s only getting better in the role. Over these podcast episodes, you’ve heard us discuss the value of a player having multiple scoring columns. Why does this matter? Simply, it enables a player to have a diversity of scoring options should one be limited either by oppositions game style or other variables. Last year his scoring split was made up of 37% Kicks, 31% Handballs, 9% marks and 20% tackles. Laird has a near perfect fantasy game. He’s a ball winner, knows how to defend, boasts strong endurance and has the footy IQ to get into space for both offensive and defensive setups. Not having Matt Crouch play did aid his scoring and midfield development. But Laird is so clever if anything I can only see a 5 ppg regression. Equally as likely is he hits the rare terrority of premium midfielders and backs up his 110 seasonal average.
Jake Lloyd
KANE
It says a lot about Jake Lloyd that people are disappointed with a 98-point average but that’s the sense I’ve got from the community. I think most of that disappointment is rooted in just how well his previous two seasons were. In 2019 he averaged 107 and in 2020 he averaged 114*, which are mind boggling numbers for a defender and place him firmly among the top five most valuable players during that stretch. But you’re not here for the past and we want to know how he’ll go in the future. I have Lloyd as 90-100 defender for the next three years and wouldn’t be surprised with his elite durability (missed just one game in the past four seasons), fitness and foot skills that he can’t stretch that scoring for even five years. Doesn’t have the upside of some others in this tier but he’s just so safe and gives you a player to build your backline for the medium term at least.
MJ
12 months ago, Jake Lloyd was a genuine first round selection in a keeper league. Lloyd had developed his scoring to such great heights, that he was now seen by many as the undeniable clear best defender. While Rory Laird and Callum Mills amongst others went past his scoring last season, Jake still has something that these two no longer possess. Defensive Status! At 28 years of age, Lloyd still delivered a solid 2021 season. It featured twelve tons and an additional five scores of 90-99. Where his scoring dried up was in his ceiling, last year he failed to deliver anything over 120. Regardless of this, he is still one of the most reliable and durable defensive options available. During the past six seasons, he’s missed just two matches. The departure of Jordan Dawson doesn’t hurt his scoring upside, but it probably doesn’t drastically mean he’ll return to the 110+ seasons. However, over the next 3 seasons, I still see Lloyd as a 95-15 defender and in a keeper league given he’ll hold his status that’s a highly valuable asset.
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