Plenty to look at this week including a forgotten Blue on the injury comeback trail and two players in their first seasons at new clubs. Plus, two midfielders who have been around a while and both recorded career high disposals on the weekend.
Aliir Aliir – Port Adelaide % owned – 70% 2021 average – 72.4
Aliir has not missed a beat since joining the Power in the 2020 trade period, slotting seamlessly into the back 6 as a tall interceptor. Tall defenders don’t typically score too well in the fantasy world, but this season has seen those who read the play well take plenty of marks. Aliir is averaging 7 marks a game (3 intercept marks) and a career high 17 disposals making him worthy of a spot in your side.
Nic Newman – Carlton % owned – 69% 2021 average – yet to play
Newman has had a tough run with injuries in the last 18 months, playing only two senior games since 2019. In that season, which was his first at the Blues, he averaged 93 and looked every bit the ball magnet we thought he was in his first two seasons at the level as a Swan. After another long setback on the eve of this season, Newman made a successful return in the VFL on the weekend and will be close to AFL selection. Grab him now before anyone else does!
James Cousins – Hawthorn % owned – 54% 2021 average – 81
For various reasons, Cousins has been unable to cement his position in Hawthorn’s best 22, playing just 25 games since his debut in 2017. Originally listed as a rookie, Cousins has looked very capable at the level but has too often been squeezed out by the likes of Mitchell, O’Meara and Worpel. He was made to wait for his opportunity this season with his first look being as an unused sub in round 5 but he has now played the last two rounds and looked good. He was particularly impressive in the big loss to St.Kilda recording a career high 27 disposals and attending 18 of 32 centre bounces. His job security is shaky but his scoring potential is strong.
Jack Higgins – St.Kilda % owned – 66% 2021 average – 63.1
A prolific midfielder in his junior years, Higgins has been required closer to goals more often than many thought this season, as a spike in midfield minutes had been expected at his new club, St.Kilda. His fantasy scoring has been dependant on hitting the scoreboard with his two best scores of 86 and 90 coming from 4 and 3 goal hauls respectively. Another clear pattern that has emerged is Higgins’ scoring in wins versus losses as his average score in the Saints’ 3 wins is 74 and his average score in losses is 55. It’s not a huge discrepancy but it adds some insight to your decision making. If you think St. Kilda will turn their season around from here, grab him!
Kayne Turner % owned – 2% 2021 average – 62.4
At the time of writing, Turner was only in 2% of teams which speaks volumes of his fantasy relevance in recent years, but his DPP status as a forward makes him someone to at least keep an eye on. Tasked with some tagging roles this year has seen his midfield time increase and whilst his scoring hasn’t spiked considerably, his performance on the weekend grabbed my attention. A career high 27 disposals along with 6 tackles and a team high 25 centre bounce attendances (up from 8 the week before) makes Turner an interesting watch from here.
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 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.
12 players have gained an additional position. Five players have gained back status, 4 gaining centre, 0 new rucks and 3 have picked up forward status. Let’s look at who they are and the relevance to your draft sides and leagues.
Dyson Heppell missed getting DPP post round three because he missed the qualification of playing three games. Since then, the Essendon skipper has solidified this defensive role. His addition should be a huge boost for his owners, especially if they are running shallow in the backline and deep in the centre. Arguably this is one of the biggest DPP gains we get.
Miles Bergman | ADD BACK
The young forward has been redeveloped as a defender in the offseason and has shown he can get it done in defence at the elite level in his handful of games. He probably has more value to his owners as a forward, but the flexibility is helpful.
George Hewett | ADD BACK
An injury affected 10 last week doesn’t make his average (47) very pretty. But even before that, this midfielder turned defender has only had one good score all year. That was an 83 all the way back in round 1. If he can regain some midfield time, he might be worth a stash in deeper leagues. But not someone worth using a waiver selection one.
Shaun Burgoyne | ADD BACK
The 786 year old is still getting it done for the Hawks, but he seems to be well past his used by date for UF coaches. A top score of 59 and a seasonal average of 47 means that he shouldn’t be considered even with this new position.
Bailey Dale | ADD BACK
Bailey Dale has forged a role for himself as part of the Bulldogs defensive seven. He’s started to take some of the kick in duties from Caleb Daniel and is showing plenty of XFactor and class. It looks like Bevo has turned another mid/fwd into a centrepiece of the backline.
With Luke Shuey and Elliot Yeo missing plenty of games, the Eagles have given others greater midfield opportunities. Liam Duggan is one of a few Eagles that have taken the opportunity and as a result he picks up a new position.
Mark O’Connor | ADD CENTRE
The Cats have continued to use Mark O’Connor in a defensive midfield role over the past month. Despite picking up an injury last week, he did enough to earn centre status.
Zac Williams | ADD CENTRE
Nothing special, but the new blue Zac Williams is now a D/C. Like all ‘centre’ adds, it’s rarely going to benefit your on field scoring, rather just allow for greater squad versatility.
Chad Warner | ADD CENTRE
Chad Warner has already proven to be one of the best value for money picks of the season. He’s found himself at home as part of the Swans midfield group and was a walk up DPP addition for UF.
By name, this probably feels like a big inclusion, but on current points scoring, it’s not as exciting as one may hope. In his last 5, he’s averaging 72, and for the season, his top score is last weeks 84. All this to say, with many draft sides looking weak in the forward line, it’s nice to get a unrosterable centre now able to get back on the park. He’s still available in 28% of leagues.
Devon Smith | ADD FORWARD
His average of 73 as a centre is almost someone not worth rostering in most leagues, so he needs this new DPP to stay relevant. He now moves inside the top 50 forwards available in the game and can hopefully recapture some value for his owners.
His current role (heavy forward hence the DPP gain) isn’t seeing him score with ease. From 6 games, he’s had 4 scores under 69 and just the one ton. Helpful for his owners, but unless he can get back into the midfield, it might not be season defining.
Lachlan McNiel | ADD FORWARD
He’s averaging 39… Don’t got there! Just don’t! He’s in 8% of leagues, and that’s 8% too many!
Almost There
Jack Billings and Lachie Hunter were close to gaining additional positions, with them right in contention for forward status. At the same time, Brandon Ellis isn’t far off being back eligible. All three, amongst others, are in the mix for the round 9 additions.
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 season. At the conclusion of the round 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.
Jack Sinclair getting back status is possibly less exciting than what it looked like in the preseason after scoring 112 in the AAMI Community Series. But with the saints trying to squeeze everyone into that midfield Sinclair has been one of the players moved to the backline.
Dyson Heppell | ADD BACK
Dyson Heppell missed getting DPP post round three because he missed the qualification of playing three games. Since then, the Essendon skipper has solidified this defensive role. His likely addition should be a huge boost for his owners, especially if they are running shallow in the backline and deep in the centre. Arguably this will be one of the biggest DPP gains we get.
Bailey Dale | ADD BACK
I was surprised UltimateFooty didn’t award this after round 3, so hopefully, they amend it in this batch of DPP additions. Bailey Dale has forged a role for himself as part of the Bulldogs defensive seven. He’s started to take some of the kick in duties from Caleb Daniel and is showing plenty of XFactor and class. It looks like Bevo has turned another mid/fwd into a centrepiece of the backline.
Miles Bergman | ADD Back
The young forward has been redeveloped as a defender in the offseason and has shown he can get it done in defence at the elite level in his handful of games. Lock it in!
Chad Warner has already proven to be one of the best moneymakers of the season. He’s found himself at home as part of the Swans midfield group and should be a walk up DPP addition for UF.
Jack Crisp | ADD Centre
‘Crispy’ has always pushed up the ground even when starting across half back. But in 2021, Nathan Buckley seems quite content to play him at centre bounce more regularly. The possible DPP will open squad versatility and create further options for his owners. It still looks like a top 6-8 defensive premium in 2021.
Mark O’Connor | ADD CENTRE
The Cats have continued to use Mark O’Connor in a defensive midfield role over the past month. Despite picking up an injury last week, he still did enough in my eyes to award him centre status.
Jaidyn Stephenson | ADD CENTRE
He’s playing heavy midfield minutes for the Kangaroos, add centre status. Pretty simple really! Next!
Jack Lukosious | ADD CENTRE
The Suns love his use of the ball by foot and have looked to transform him again into a damaging wingman. When he gets on the end of it, his sublime foot skills are often exploited to help set up deep inside forward 50 attacks from Gold Coast. He’s picking up centre status will add squad flexibility and not gain you more points on the field.
He’s been excellent over the past few weeks, both in his role through the ruck and also in providing a viable tall target option up forward. Normally a ruckman gaining forward status only provides coaches with some squad flexibility, but with forwards struggling to score in 2021, this could be the exception.
Lachie Hunter | ADD FORWARD
The addition of Adam Treloar was always going to have a cascading impact on the Bulldogs midfield that was already stacked for options. It seems that Lachie Hunter is one of those who’s taken the biggest hit, with the wingman now spending a majority of his time playing a forward bound role. If he gains DPP it could be a huge win! Especially with the injury impact of Josh Dunkley missing the vast majority of the season.
Josh Daicos | ADD FORWARD
Josh Daicos was one of the more hyped breakout candidates for 2021. Despite the club moving on both Adam Treloar and Tom Phillips, who were staples of the Magpie midfield previously, Daicos can barely get a CBA. Instead, Bucks has been content to play him as a small forward. As a result, his scoring has decreased to the point where last week he scored a season high 75. Unless his role changes and he plays midfield, he’s set to stay as an irrelevant option in classic. Draft coaches will be hoping to get the DPP so they can atleast something out of what’s been a disastrous selection result so far.
NB: He spent alot of time in the midfield this week, and that might just be enough for UF to hesitate awarding it for another few weeks to see if the midfield role has rebounded.
Josh Kelly | ADD FORWARD
He has barely attended a CBA in the past four weeks and seems to have inherited the role Lachie Whitfield made famous as a high half-forward pushing up the ground. It’d be some solace for coaches that drafted him if he does get it. With an ADP of 23, it’ll be a small consolidation as easily one of the biggest premium busts of the drafting season so far.
Jack Billings | ADD FORWARD
He’ll always be in the conversation for regaining his forward status, given how damaging he is inside forward 50. With the saints trying to squeeze Brad Crouch into that midfield unit, the Saints have used Billings more forward than across the wings. The question for us will be, has he spent enough time forward to his UF’s percentage quota. For me, I’m leaning towards it being a yes, but I wouldn’t be shocked if they opted against it. While he is playing more forward, it’s not an exclusive move.
Devon Smith | ADD FORWARD
See above… He’s a chance! And his owners will be praying he does get it. His average of 73 as a centre is almost someone not worth rostering in most leagues, so he needs it to stay relevant.
Nat Fyfe | ADD FORWARD
Any small chances he had to pick up forward status got smashed last weekend, with the Dockers skipper attending 95% of centre bounces last weekend against North Melbourne. It’s doubtful he gets it, but if he does, then go out and purchase yourself a lottery ticket because that’s a huge dose of luck if he does.
Each week I’ll bring you some names to consider for your Ultimate Footy side that will hopefully give you the edge you need. To be eligible, a player needs to be available as a free agent in at least 30% of Ultimate Footy leagues.
A short one this week as coaches seem to be getting better at finding these diamonds in the rough pushing their ownership up! A DPP at a top club who is yet to play this year gets a mention and so does a slimmed down Bomber whose centre bounce numbers will surprise you.
If you forget about the round 1 performance against the Blues (a 25 from 78% game time), Baker has been quietly putting together a reasonable season at Tiger land. Just shy of 50 games, Baker has well and truly locked down a spot in this strong Richmond side having only missed one game last year and playing every game so far in 2021. He stood up in a tough loss on the weekend recording a career best 27 disposals and an impressive 7 marks in the wet. Averaging 93 in his last two, Baker should only get better from here.
Marc Murphy – Carlton % owned – 69% 2021 average – 69
This is a stretch but the absence of any other solid midfield options means I have had to get creative. Now in his football twilight years, Carlton’s former captain is down on his career averages across the board playing in an unfamiliar role forward of the centre. He hasn’t quite taken to the role just yet but at least in recent weeks has started hitting the scoreboard to help boost his fantasy scoring.
A couple of 80’s in the last few weeks isn’t much to get excited about as a midfield option but, there is a chance he will receive forward status in the upcoming DPP changes. The other bit of upside is the fact that Carlton are struggling in the win/loss column, and the masses are getting restless. The Blues may not persist with this forward line experiment for the whole season which would see Murphy back into a midfield/wing role which would almost certainly help his scoring.
Sam Powell-Pepper % owned – 66% 2021 average – yet to play
This is year 5 for Port Adelaide’s young midfield bull and after 4 seasons of averages in the 70’s, many have been wondering if this is the year Powell-Pepper will add 10-15 points to his scoring average. A broken hand and some time away from the club has meant SPP is yet to feature in the senior side this season and we aren’t any closer to knowing if this will be a breakout year. He has been back at the club for a few weeks now and dominated in the SANFL on the weekend with a 34 disposal, 8 tackle performance. If he gets named this week, his dual position status as a MID/FWD makes him worth a punt.
Despite having an injury interrupted pre-season that saw him miss the first two rounds, Stringer has been reasonably consistent this season. Apart from a stinker in wet conditions in a big loss to Brisbane, he has scored 70s in every other game.
The former Bulldog slimmed down in the off season to allow him to play more midfield minutes and this has come into fruition as he has attended 72 out of a possible 95 centre bounces this season (minus the Brisbane game). In fact, he attended more centre bounces than any other Bomber on Anzac Day and this, combined with his known prowess in front of goals, makes him a very interesting watch.
One of my favourite parts of fantasy footy is nabbing a free agent off the waiver wire before anyone else does and watching him turn into a gun scorer for my draft sides. Each week I’ll bring you some names to consider for your Ultimate Footy side that will hopefully give you the edge you need. To be eligible, a player needs to be available as a free agent in at least 30% of Ultimate Footy leagues.
Just the one defender this week but I finally have a ruckman to talk about! Plus, a high-profile player traded during the off season that has yet to debut at his new club makes the list.
Redman has always seemed to play a fantasy friendly game but has only managed 38 games across his 5 years in the system. He has looked solid this season and is one of a few that have benefitted from Saad’s departure. After a disappointing 52 in round 1, Redman has backed it up with a 92, an injury affected 49 (from 39% game time!) and a 75 on the weekend. With Ridley set to miss this week, there’s going to be plenty more ball on offer for the likes of Redman.
Luke Dunstan – St.Kilda % owned – 53% 2021 average – 74
The player with the highest average in 2020 (no seriously, he did only play the one game though) has found it tough to get into the Saints’ best 22 this season. The injection of Clark into the midfield and the arrival of Crouch from the Crows hasn’t helped but it’s still a puzzling one as he looks a decent player when fit. He got his chance on the weekend after a late change saw Zak Jones miss on the weekend.
In the big loss to the Tigers, Dunstan had 16 touches, 4 tackles and he attended 12/31 centre bounces scoring 74 which ranked him 8th for points at St.Kilda. He is likely to make way for Jones this week but if not, keep him in mind. He scored 8 consecutive tons in the back end of 2017 into 2018!
I was surprised to see Acres was available in over 30% of leagues but then I had a look at his scores so far this year and can only assume he has been dropped by a lot of frustrated coaches early. He struggled with injuries last season which was his first at the Dockers but finished the year with gusto averaging 92 in his last 4 games. Unfortunately, he has not carried that form over into this season, but the last two weeks have been more promising. He looked exceptionally good against the Crows on the weekend amassing 12 touches in the opening quarter alone. He only finished with 19 for the game but the scoring potential is there.
Callum Sinclair – Sydney % owned – 58% 2021 average – yet to play
With journeyman Tom Hickey joining the club in the off season, Sinclair saw his position as the number 1 ruck disappear very quickly. With Hickey now sidelined for the next two months with a PCL injury, we should see Sinclair come in and try to prove the selectors wrong. Playing predominantly as the preferred ruck (with some time as a key forward) saw Sinclair average 83 across 2018-2020 including a career high 92 in 2018. He should be able to hit some decent scores for those in need of a ruck, particularly this week as he comes up against the ruckless Suns.
I’ve held off nominating this guy for a few weeks now as I wasn’t convinced his scoring would continue but if I don’t nominate him this week, he’ll be too popular before the next article! Pickett put up very modest numbers in his debut year last season but has exploded this year, kicking goals in every game, applying great forward pressure with just under 4 tackles a game and even attending a handful of centre bounces each week. His fantasy scores have increased every round this season and with a 95 on the weekend, his first ton is coming soon.
Ben Brown – Melbourne % owned – 28% 2021 average – yet to play
Taylor Walker, Josh Bruce, Aaron Naughton, Tim Membrey. These are just some of the key forwards who haven’t been mentioned in fantasy circles for a long time, if ever, yet have jumped out of the blocks with some huge scores this year. If the AFL rule changes have indeed heralded the return of the big forward, then Ben Brown must get a shout as a player with tremendous upside. Brown had a very poor 2020 but before that averaged 63 goals a season between 2017-2019 and that was playing for the Kangaroos who weren’t in contention in any of those years. Now he’s at the undefeated Demons and ready for selection after missing the opening rounds due to knee surgery, he should post some huge numbers when he gets his chance.
Hi team, Jordox here! One of my favourite parts of fantasy footy is nabbing a free agent off the waiver wire before anyone else does and watching him turn into a gun scorer for my draft sides. Each week I’ll bring you some names to consider for your Ultimate Footy side that will hopefully give you the edge you need. To be eligible, a player needs to be available as a free agent in at least 30% of Ultimate Footy leagues.
A couple of young Bombers have impressed me this week plus a couple of old timers showing they still have what it takes to hit a decent fantasy score!
Taken at pick 8 in last year’s draft, we have already seen more than a glimpse of why this guy was so highly rated. Standing at 200cm (just in case you hadn’t already heard that 10 times from the broadcast team on Thursday night), Cox has been playing all over the ground looking particularly good on the wing. Against Sydney last week, he collected 18 disposals and kicked a very nice goal for a score of 93. Also available as a forward, Cox will be snapped up very quick, particularly in Keeper leagues.
Grant Birchall – Brisbane % owned – 49% 2021 average – 74.5
Now in his second season at the Lions, Birchall is starting to put together a form line that resembles his prime years at the Hawks. Along with Daniel Rich, he looks like someone they want repelling from the back half which is resulting in plenty of marks. He is averaging just under 8 marks a game and if he stays healthy, will be a decent scorer.
Jack Sinclair – St.Kilda % owned – 56% 2021 average – 66.5
A new role playing off halfback looked set to make Sinclair a fantasy relevant player this season and his AAMI Series performance against Carlton only added to the hype. He scored 112 off 28 touches in a dominant display in that game but unfortunately did not carry that form into the season proper. His scoring has been up and down but a nice 82 on the weekend shows he has the potential. He also should be a lock for DPP status at some point this season which would make him a handy defender to have.
Callan Ward – GWS % owned – 71% (ineligible by 1% but had to squeeze him in) 2021 average – 80
The Giants’ fearless leader has been slowly moving out of midfield rotations due to his age and injury history but also to expose the rising stars at GWS. The long-term injury to Coniglio last week, however, has appeared to put Ward back at the coalface as we saw him attend more centre bounces than other midfielder on the ground against Collingwood on the weekend. He more than made the most of this opportunity collecting 37 touches and scoring 121 which was his best score since the 2018 season. He’s not getting any younger but if the role’s there, the points will come.
Bailey Dale – Western Bulldogs % owned – 42% 2021 average – 72.5
For varying reasons, Dale hasn’t been able to lock down a spot in the 22 across his 6 seasons leading into 2021 but a role change has seen him move to a halfback flank and importantly, find more footy. He is averaging career high numbers for disposals and marks and after back to back scores of 85, is a great option for the forward line. He will also surely gain defender status down the track too.
Will Snelling – Essendon % owned – 68% 2021 average – 81.5
Playing as a pressure forward with stints in the midfield, Snelling is having a breakout 4th season after establishing himself in Essendon’s best 22 last season. He is a tackling machine averaging just under 7 a game and laying 11 on the weekend! He had a career high 23 touches the week before and is continuing to build his stat line around the tackles column averaging 99.5 fantasy points in the last two weeks. If he can hit the scoreboard more frequently and/or increase his disposals average, he will become a very good scorer.
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 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.
15 players have gained an additional position. Seven players have gained back status, two gaining centre, two new rucks and four have picked up forward status. Let’s look at who they are and the relevance to your draft sides and leagues.
Nick Hind has gone from occasional AFL player at St Kilda to a permanent fixture of the Essendon backline. His run and carry have seen many supporters not notice the gap left by Adam Saad. He’s currently averaging 93, and now as a back, is ranked just outside the top 10. Owners now can play him up forward or down back depending on the unique needs of their squad.
Sean Lemmens | ADD BACK
Three weeks of scores in this ’60s for Sean Lemmens see him be at the very least ‘ a consistent performer’. Before any of these DPP’s were added into the system, we’ve got over 75 backs currently averaging more than Lemmens. But in the forward line, it’s 72.
Given the new names added, he drops back to about the 80th best back. So if you were picking him anywhere, which 7% of leagues have, it’s as a forward that he’s got the likely more scoring relevance. This is a polite way to say only consider if your desperate and the league your playing in a super deep in terms of players required.
Jarman Impey | ADD BACK
No surprises here, with Jarman Impey gaining back status. The hawks love his speed and ball use out of defensive 50. His teammates look to get the ball in his hands and every available opportunity. Depending on your overall squad’s health and balance, he’s now able to be played as either a forward or back on the field comfortably.
Jayden Laverde | ADD BACK
Currently averaging 52, he’s found himself at home as part of a new look Bomber backline alongside Nick Hind. But he shouldn’t be someone you’re considering, given his top score of the season is 60. You should be able to find a back or forward capable of scoring a 70 most weeks as a ‘plug and play’ option of the waiver wire most weeks.
Tom Atkins | ADD BACK
Another DPP that’s been mooted since the preseason began. Geelong has spoken about and now used Tom Atkins as a defender. The club loves his pressure acts and the defensive efforts on the game. If the Cats can get their possession game going, he should be in a 70’s averaging BACK/FWD, which would be more than handy for his owner as a bench option if nothing else.
The run and carry defender is well and truly enjoying a scoring renaissance with how the AFL is being played. After attempting to reinvent him as a small forward over the past few seasons, Melbourne has deployed Jayden Hunt back into his preferred defensive role.
Sometimes you need to look a little deeper into the numbers rather than just a players ‘average.’ Jayden had a stinky round one score of 38. As a result, his average of 70 doesn’t look hugely appealing. But in the past 2 weeks, he scored 80 & 93. Currently, he’s been picked up in 42% of leagues and is probably worth a little bench stash if you can grab him. Another score of 80+ next week, and he’ll be on everyone’s radar by then.
Jack Ziebell | ADD BACK
The Roos captain has been revitalised as a scorer and will provide his owner flexibility to play him at whatever end of the ground they need. Maybe it’s to do with the fact that he’s placed where the ball seems to be permanently living.
The only flag I have is the club flagging Luke McDonald’s return as early as round four. What impact he has on Ziebell’s scoring ceiling is yet to be seen. But those who drafted him with an average draft position of 122 will be stoked with his return thus far. Is he a sell-high candidate? Or will this scoring trend continue.
FINALLY! The Swans have unleashed Callum Mills into the midfield and it comes as no surprise that he’s more consistently delivering strong scoring. Over the first three rounds he’s delivered a 121, 85 & 111 to average 105.
The addition of this new status outside of the squad flexibility will only benefit coaches who have a relatively strong backline and have struggled either with injuries or poor drafting choices in the midfield. In that case, if their bench back is scoring better than an on-field centre, they can easily improve their scoring potential by playing Mills as a centre. Beyond that scenario, it’s just some nice versatility to add to your squad.
Should this role hold for the season, keeper league owners will need to prepare for life without Mills in their backline next year.
Kane Lambert | ADD CENTRE
The Tigers MID/FWD split of Kane Lambert has continued for yet another season. Like many players that gain ‘centre’ status, it’s the least beneficial in boosting your on field scoring. He’s way more valuable as a forward to owners than a centre. That said, it’s a nice bit for squad versatility for his owner.
The Saints picked up Shaun as a key position insurance policy. And boy, have they needed it of late with Rowan Marshall and Paddy Ryder being unavailable for the season so far. Mckernan has been thrown into a heavy ruck role over the first few games. However, with Marshall getting through his VFL hitout last weekend and Ryder back from personal leave, his likelihood of more games isn’t looking great.
All that said, he’s average 40 and shouldn’t be someone you consider regardless of the returning Saints talls.
Peter Wright | ADD RUCK
The long term injury to Sam Draper forced the Bombers into a restructure. That’s meant two metre Peter has gone from a ‘relief ruck’ role into the leader of the pack. A score last week of 76 against the Saints was solid but far from spectacular given he was up against an equally inexperienced Saints ruck structure. Games against Sydney, Brisbane, Collingwood and Carlton over the next four aren’t going to be much easier.
The addition of RUCK status should mean you only place him in that line if you find yourself suffering an injury or a late out. He’s not someone you’d feel comfortable with on the field in reality as either a forward or ruck. It’s just squad versatility and flexibility this move.
I feel like every year, I write about Cale Hooker gaining a status. Either where he’s listed as a BACK and gaining FORWARD or vice versa. This year, Cale adds FWD eligibility, given his Bombers have used him as their #1 tall forward target. Depending on the scoring categories you have turned on for your league, you’ll have either zero or minimal amount of in rest in Hooker’s scoring. He’s currently owned in 21% of leagues, and I doubt that percentage will jump much after this DPP addition.
Jacob Koschitzke | ADD FORWARD
The Hawks have transitioned ‘Kosi’ from a key defensive role into a full forward. But with an average of 43, he shouldn’t be someone you should be considering. Hard Pass.
Stefan Martin’s addition has allowed Tim to become the ‘second ruck’ option for the Bulldogs. As a result, he’s playing predominantly full forward and creating a marking target for the doggies. Normally a ruck adding forward status is only a ‘squad versatility’ move. But if the owner has another viable ruck option in their squad, English is scoring well enough (avg 78) to be a rosterable forward on the ground.
Errol Gulden | ADD FORWARD
At the start of the season, Errol Gulden gaining forward status might not have created much excitement. However, with scores of 108, 93 & 98 he’s every chance to become his teams F1. Only Taylor Walker, Josh Dunkley, Jack Ziebell, Dayne Zorko and Chad Wingard have a higher average than him.
If previously you’d been too worried to place him on the field as a centre, worry no more. Any risk of a ‘down’ score is now greatly minimised in this new eligible line. His additional DPP is easily the biggest potential scoring impact; given coaches have relatively thin scoring options in this line. With an ADP of 297, he’s already a leading contender for being one of the biggest draft day steals of the year.
One of my favourite parts of fantasy footy is nabbing a free agent off the waiver wire before anyone else does and watching him turn into a gun scorer for my draft sides. Each week I’ll bring you some names to consider for your Ultimate Footy side that will hopefully give you the edge you need. To be eligible, a player needs to be available as a free agent in at least 30% of Ultimate Footy leagues.
Still nothing of interest in the ruck line and slim pickings in the midfield but plenty of options elsewhere including a defender turned midfielder at Geelong who is an early nominee for tagger of the year!
Mark O’Connor – Geelong % owned – 24% 2021 average – 76.7
The speedy Irishman has been a solid defender for the Cats for the last few years without ever really showing much in the way of fantasy scoring. In fact, before this season he had only ever collected 20 touches or more in a game twice. But in round 2, Chris Scott tasked him with tagging the reigning Brownlow medallist, Lachie Neale and he did a stellar job.
This week, he tagged another Brownlow medallist in Tom Mitchell and again won the battle clearly, recording a career high 26 touches and 8 tackles whilst attending more centre bounces than any other player on the ground with 20 out of 23. He is averaging 91.5 in this new role and is likely to gain DPP status as he has now attended 86% of centre bounces in rounds 2 and 3 after attending zero in round 1.
Jackson Nelson – West Coast % owned – 59% 2021 average – 74.7
Nelson has been around for a while now and has slowly increased his fantasy average and flirted with UF relevancy, but this year looks to have solidified his spot in the back 6 at the Eagles. He scored a nice 91 in the AAMI Series clash against Fremantle and on the weekend just gone, joined in the kick-mark feast against Port Adelaide.
He took 10 marks on the way to 25 touches (21 kicks!) and his first fantasy ton, not including the adjusted 115 in round 18 last year. West Coast like the ball in his hands as he has taken the 2nd most kick-ins this year behind Hurn, playing on 100% of the time.
Oliver Florent – Sydney % owned – 69% 2021 average – 78.7
The Swans first pick from the 2016 draft has been building steadily for the last few years learning from the likes of Parker and Kennedy and alongside a host of young Sydney stars, is now getting ample midfield opportunities. Still playing predominantly as a transitional half forward/winger, the exciting Florent has now attended 30% of centre bounces this season.
He had a career high 29 touches and a nice fantasy ton on the weekend against the reigning premiers and is only going to get better from here.
Paul Seedsman – Adelaide % owned – 59% 2021 average – 80.3
There wasn’t a heap to choose from in the midfield this week so this one is a bit of a hit and hope but Seedsman is quietly putting together a decent season on the wing for the Crows averaging 6 marks a game. The veteran has never really reached his fantasy potential due to injuries and form issues across his career, but he is exciting to watch in full flight and would sit comfortably as your last midfielder.
Jack Silvagni – Carlton % owned – 18% 2021 average – 59
Now in his 6th season, this son of a gun is starting to look a more commanding figure, not unlike his old man. He looked excellent in the AAMI Series match against the Saints scoring 90 thanks to 3 goals and 4 tackles and looked to be backing it up in round 1 against the Tigers sitting on 40 before injury ended his night just before half time.
Thankfully he only missed the one game and returned on the weekend with an equal career high 18 touches, scoring 78 and contributing strongly to Carlton’s first win of the season.
Peter Wright – Essendon % owned – 51% 2021 average – 60
Crisis creates opportunity as they say and with injuries to young gun Draper and veteran Phillips, the Bombers’ ruck stocks were in crisis last week, leading to an opportunity for a role change for Two Metre Peter. Brought across from the Suns in the off season to play as a key forward and pinch hit in the ruck, Wright played permanent ruck on the weekend and looked solid.
He had the most centre bounce attendances on the ground winning 19 hit outs on the way to scoring 76 (albeit against weak opposition in McKernan and Carisle). The Bombers made a mess of the Saints so even though Phillips is now off the injury list and young Nick Bryan is edging closer to a debut, Wright looks to be the number 1 ruck at Bomberland for the time being.
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 season. At the conclusion of the round 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 former saint will be one of the first and easiest DPP decisions that UltimateFooty will make in 2021. Nic Hind has gone from occasional AFL player at St Kilda to a permanent fixture of the Essendon backline. His run and carry have seen many supporters not notice the gap left by Adam Saad. He’s currently averaging 93 and would have owners now torn whether to play him up forward or down back.
Thankfully depending on their squad’s depth and the availability of option in the player pool could well determine where he’s best serving his owner.
Jack Ziebell | ADD BACK
He’s in a similar vein to Hind, in that fact that the forward eligible and should pick up back status. The Roos captain has been revitalised as a scorer and will provide his owner flexibility to play him at whatever end of the ground they need.
The only flag I have is the club flagging Luke McDonald’s return as early as round four. What impact he has on Ziebell’s scoring ceiling is yet to be seen. But those who drafted him with an average draft position of 122 will be stoked with his return thus far.
Jarman Impey | ADD BACK
Since recovering from an ACL late last year, the Hawks have deployed the former Port Adelaide to provide dash off the Hawthorn backline. He won’t be the most dynamic scoring option, but given he’s still available in 18% of the league in the player pool, he is a worthy addition.
If you think the Hawks struggle this year, then Hawthorn’s defenders’ narrative getting plenty of looks at the ball could boost his scoring chances. Add that they’ll be without James Sicily or Will Day for most of the season, then it could be a decent DPP gain for his owners.
Tom Atkins | ADD BACK
Another DPP that’s been mooted since the preseason began. Geelong has spoken about and now used Tom Atkins as a defender. The club loves his pressure acts and the defensive efforts on the game. If the Cats can get their possession game going, he should be in a high 70’s averaging FWD/DEF, which would be more than handy for his owner.
If he’s still sitting in the player pool grab him now before the DPP inclusion lands on Wednesday afternoon/evening.
Jack Sinclair getting back status is possibly less exciting than what it looked like in the preseason after scoring 112 in the AAMI Community Series. That said, he is averaging 68, and while it’s not amazing, the addition of back status would rank him just outside the top 50 backs in UltimateFooty.
Dyson Heppell | ADD BACK
It’s going to happen, but not yet. He missed the round two clash and because of this he’s not played the minimum of three games required to get positional eligibility. Keep an eye out on the next batch, he should feature in this.
Has to get it, and will be a monster addition for his owner. Errol Gulden has been the best performing rookie of the season and with scores of 108, 93 & 98 he’s every chance to become his teams F1. Rostering him on field as a midfielder might have felt potentially risky given who you might have been benching for him. But as a forward and given his proven scoring over the past three games any risk is all but gone.
Tim English | ADD FORWARD
Stefan Martin’s addition has allowed Tim to become the ‘second ruck’ option for the Bulldogs. As a result, he’s playing predominantly full forward and creating a marking target for the doggies. Normally a ruck adding forward status is only a ‘squad versatility’ move. But if the owner has another viable ruck option in their squad, English is scoring well enough (avg 78) to be a rosterable forward on the ground.
Historically, UltimateFooty leans on the conservative side of awarding positional changes in season. Especially for moves that have big potential outcomes. Should he gain forward status, he’d move from being someone’s M3 to a clear F1. If a side has a deep midfield bench, this could be a huge addition for them.
If his role continues with this much forward time, he’s every chance to gain it, but more likely to be after round 6.
Nat Fyfe | ADD FORWARD
A combination of two things will see him be considered in the post round six inclusions. Firstly, he missed round three with a concussion, meaning he hasn’t played enough matches. Second, see above comments RE: Taranto.
One of my favourite parts of fantasy footy is nabbing a free agent off the waiver wire before anyone else does and watching him turn into a gun scorer for my draft sides. Each week I’ll bring you some names to consider for your Ultimate Footy side that will hopefully give you the edge you need. To be eligible, a player needs to be available as a free agent in at least 30% of Ultimate Footy leagues.
Changkuoth Jiath % owned – 56% 2021 average – 76.5
Jiath showed signs in pre-season that he could become fantasy relevant scoring an impressive 83 in the AAMI Series win over North Melbourne. After an impressive 25 touch, 8 mark display on the weekend, he now appears to have locked in a spot in the Hawks’ back 6.
He plays a great fantasy game providing run off half back but he also reads the play very well averaging 3 intercept marks a game so far. He looked very confident against a top side in Richmond, taking the game on and even giving Dustin Martin the old Dusty fend off!
Daniel Howe % owned – 67% 2021 average – 81.5
Also available as a midfielder, Howe is another Hawk that found plenty of it on the weekend and will see his ownership rise. Running up and down the wings, he took 11 marks and showed signs of becoming more than just a bit part player. Wingard’s imminent return could hurt his scoring potential but for now, his DPP status makes him very appealing.
Humble numbers so far with scores of 80 and 66 but what interests me most about Drew is his role. Almost the forgotten man of that brilliant 2018 draft haul that Port snagged, Drew missed all of 2020 and looks hell bent on making up for lost time, laying 11 tackles in round 1! He leads the way for centre bounces at Port attending 45 of 61 (74%) with Lycett the next best with 41.
He needs to get his hands on the pill a bit more, but this kid is keeping Tom Rockcliff out of the side. That says something.
Charlie Constable % owned – 48% 2021 average – 49
Chris Scott’s reluctance to give Constable a long stint in the side has been a source of frustration for the fantasy world ever since the young Cat debuted in 2019 and averaged 88 in his first 4 games. Constable has gotten a small look in so far this year due to the injuries and suspensions at Geelong.
His average looks terrible due to scoring 25 as the medical sub in round 1 but worth noting he scored that 25 in just 13% game time and then followed it up with a 73 off just 55% game time against Brisbane. If he gets close to a full game this weekend, he should score very well.
Playing in a new role across half back, Atkins turned heads in the AAMI Series with an impressive 28 disposal effort against Essendon, well above his career best of 23 disposals in a game in 2019. Those that were optimistic may have been turned off by his paltry score of 51 in round 1 in the loss to the Crows but that was a strange game and many Cats were well below their best.
He backed it up with a solid 88 against Brisbane and what excites me most about his scoring potential is how hard he is at the man having averaged 5 tackles a game so far this year and 4 a game across his young career. The flipside of that is that he has given away 9 free kicks (-27 points) in 2 games and been awarded none!
Minairo Frederick % owned – 28% 2021 average – 76
Largely unknown before this season due to only averaging 31 in his debut season last year, Frederick became a more familiar name after scoring a ton in the AAMI Series thanks to 9 marks and 2 goals. Unfortunately, he then strained a calf causing him to miss round 1 and potentially losing his place in the 22.
But his solid pre-season was rewarded as he came back in round 2 and looked great playing high half forward and scoring 76 from just 13 touches. Walter is likely to return this week and could impact Frederick’s scoring, but I think the kid is exciting and will thrive with more experience around him.
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