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. 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.
Not even Nostradamus saw the scoring volume coming from Aaron Hall in 2021! He, alongside skipper Jack Ziebell, is mopping up everything inside the Kangaroos defensive half. While based on his history, he feels like an injury risk for his coach every single week, the scoring he’s offering is sublime. His true relevance is scoring big as a forward eligible option, but the DPP addition does add some versatility for his owner. An easy addition for UF to make. Lock it up!
Zac Tuohy | ADD BACK
Over the previous 12 months, we’ve seen the Irishman get used higher up the ground. However, over the past 4-6 weeks, Zac Tuohy has moved back to his more historic role across half back, including taking a share of kick ins. In his past 5 weeks, he’s had 4 scores of 80+. A year long average of 75 as a centre is irrelevant, but should he gain DPP, that’d place him inside the top 25 highest ranked backs over the past 5 weeks.
Jack Sinclair | ADD BACK
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. If he picks up DPP, then expect his current ownership of 71% to spike quickly.
‘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.
Harry Schoenberg | ADD CENTRE
The Crows will be happy with the development of Harry, as his time through the midfield is gradually increasing across the season. Like all players who gain centre, it’s rarely helpful in boosting on-field scoring. However, it could be helpful in your league if you play through the bye rounds.
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.
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. He was close to getting DPP after round 6, but even with him missing last weeks matchup, I think he’s done enough to gain forward status. If he gains DPP, it could be a huge win in a line that injuries have decimated teams structures.
Xavier O’Halloran | ADD FORWARD
This one is probably only relevant for deep dynasty and keeper leagues, but the Giants Xavier O’Halloran youngster has started to show some signs in a pure football sense. From a UltimateFooty perspective, he’s had 3 scores over 60 in his last five which is reasonable playing predominantly inside forward 50. Depending on the league you’re in and the youthful expression on your list, it might be worth a sneaky pickup.
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.
This week there’s a possible ruck/forward option with a first choice ruckman likely to be suspended plus there’s a defender who has been scoring poorly as a forward but was moved back to defence this week and, lo and behold, posted a career high score!
Darcy Moore – Collingwood % owned – 68% 2021 average – 69.9
Another example of key defenders increasing their fantasy relevance this season has been Darcy Moore who started the season in great fashion using his elite intercepting to boost his scoring. Due to Collingwood’s misfiring forward line, Moore was moved forward to provide a tall target in attack which put a halt to his positive fantasy scores. The experiment ended on the weekend as Moore went back to his defensive post against North Melbourne putting up a career best fantasy score. He recorded 28 touches and a whopping 19 marks for a score of 134 and is now one to consider again.
Will Powell – Gold Coast % owned – 70% 2021 average – 73.5
Since being taken as a surprise pick 19 in the 2017 Draft, Powell has shown plenty of potential at the Suns and a move to the back line last season helped him play all but 2 games. Like many Gold Coast players this season, Powell has been playing a fantasy friendly style averaging 92.5 in the last two weeks and is averaging 6 marks a game for the season. His numbers should continue to improve from here so would be a nice acquisition to your backline.
Patrick Lipinski – Western Bulldogs % owned – 70% 2021 average – 67.8
Lipinski has found himself on the fringes of the best 22 this season which isn’t entirely surprising when you consider the wealth of talent in that midfield. After a strong performance in the VFL and the long-term injury to Dunkley, Lipinski made his way back into the side in round 7. With scores of 73 and 60, he hasn’t set the world on fire, but he is still someone to consider as he has shown a high ceiling in the past averaging 85 in 2019 and hitting scores of 129 twice. He is still only 22 and if he can keep his spot, should continue to build into the season and playing in a side that loves to share the footy around, a big score won’t be far away.
Peter Ladhams – Port Adelaide % owned – 53% 2021 average – 46.5
With Scott Lycett likely set for a spell on the sidelines after his crude tackle on Adelaide’s Ned McHenry, an opportunity for Port Adelaide’s number 2 ruck has opened up. Now in his third year on the list, Ladhams has shown he is more than capable of hitting a good fantasy score in his 19 career games, especially when playing as the number 1 ruck. It’s no surprise Ladhams’ career best score was as a solo ruckman in round 10 last season. In a tight win against the Bulldogs, the big man collected 18 disposals along with 32 hitouts for a solid score of 104 (130 adjusted). The game was 1 of 4 in a stretch of games Ladhams played without Lycett and in that period, he averaged 71 (89 adjusted). There will be strong competition for Lycett’s spot as young ruckman Sam Hayes has been performing strongly in the SANFL and is pushing hard for an AFL debut. But if it is indeed Ladhams who gets the nod, he will be a nice short-term option especially with DPP forward status.
Never a prolific fantasy scorer, Cameron is still an excitement machine and great to watch. Much like Brisbane, Cameron’s 2021 campaign started slowly but he and the Lions are now on a roll. With an increase in the quality of inside 50 deliveries in recent weeks, the former Crow has been able to get on his bike (or motorbike as per his trademark celebration) and hit the scoreboard. In the last two rounds, he has had 16 scoring shots (7 goals 9 behinds) and averaged 8.5 marks a game for a nice two round fantasy average of 98. With the Q Clash coming up this week, Cameron will be up against a side he enjoys playing greatly in Gold Coast. As a Lion, he has played the Suns 4 times for an average of 96.
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.
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.
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.
Success in your draft league isn’t normally found in the opening handful of rounds. Rather it’s where coaches discover diamonds in the rough towards the end of the draft. As draft day approaches for coaches, I decided to share who I think are every AFL clubs best UltimateFooty sliders
One of the biggest positive things that came from the 2020 season for Adelaide was Lachie Sholl’s emergence. He offers two key quality traits that the Adelaide midfield has been crying out for. That being outside speed and classy ball use by foot.
His round 17 performance against Carlton last season was a nice sampler of his potential. He had 24 possessions, 2 goals and scored an 89 ( 111 adjusted) in UltimateFooty.
In the preseason, he has won the Crows time trial and the coaching staff has been desperate to get him playing across the wing. As a defensive eligible option, hoping for an average of 75+ isn’t out of the equation.
Joe Daniher | ADP 204
It’s a theme that you’ll see across these sliders. Forwards suck, so I’m seeing if can we get some late potential value rather than burning an early pick. Joe Daniher has had a faultless preseason and is seemingly finally getting the best out of his body. His 2017 season averaging 84.7 is a long time ago now, but it does highlight his scoring potential.
Normally picks beyond 200 are just purely speculative picks with an upside that often end up back in the player pool. So given his proven performance, it’s well worth a late pick.
I wrote about Joe Daniher earlier in the preseason. Read his article from the 50 Most Relevant here.
Will Setterfield | ADP 182
How a player ends a season can be a great indicator of how the coming season will track. And for those who draft Will Setterfield this season, they’ll be hoping that this is true. Last year his season average of 67 (83 adjusted) was fine, but it’s his final 7 games that would have coaches interested.
Between round 11 til seasons end he scored 77 (96), 70 (87), 92 (115), 91(113), 54 (67), 86 (107) and 93 (116). That’s a seven game average of 80 (100 adjusted.) You’ll take scoring like that in the middle of the draft, let alone this late.
Isaac Quaynor | ADP 179
Despite only playing 11 games of AFL footy, Isaac Quaynor has started to show promising signs. Both as a rebounding defender and as a fantasy footballer.
In round 14 against Carlton, he had 20 possessions, 5 marks, 5 tackles, and 84 (105 adjusted) in UltimateFooty. A fortnight later, against the Suns, delivered a 76 (95 adjusted).
It’s a small sample size, but the upside is there. Plus, Collingwood have always been a highly relevant and high scoring fantasy side.
Dyson Heppell | ADP 195
Don’t expect a return to the 100+ averages from Dyson Heppell. 2018 was the last time he delivered numbers that high, and while it’s not that long ago, alot has happened in those 2 seasons. Both on the injury front, and the players added to the Bombers midfield unit
Rather, the big potential value in Dyson is around an impending DPP allocation. In the offseason, Heppell has been training with the defenders, and the club wants the ball in his hands rebounding out of the defensive 50. If he picks up this allocation, he moves from being just ‘bench cover’ as a 75-85 midfielder to being an on-field D3/D4.
I wrote about Dyson Heppell earlier in the preseason. Read his article from the 50 Most Relevant here.
Hayden Young | ADP 242
5 games of AFL is a super small sample size, but in round 4 & 5 last year, Hayden Young owners would’ve spotted something special. His booming left boot returned scored 77 (96 adjusted) and 58 (72).
The dockers loved getting the ball in his hands and allowing him to set up the play with pinpoint precision. I think he’ll take another step towards fulfilling his fantasy potential, which will ultimately culminate in him being a long term premium for us in time.
Shaun Higgins | ADP 145
If your draft league has positional changes on, then Shaun Higgins is a must consider. His move to Geelong has him earmarked for the forward role previously held down by Gary Ablett.
At best, he gains a MID/FWD DPP and averages in the ’80s, making him a strong F2. At worst, he maintains a heavy midfield role, and he averages 90+. You really can’t lose.
Noah Anderson | ADP 197
It’s a rare talent that can bust out of the second year Blues. But it wouldn’t shock me at all to see Noah Anderson join the club and do it. In his final 4 games of the year, he averaged 71.5 (89 adjusted). Noah possesses both a damaging inside and outside game which makes him a perfect fantasy performer. He might not pop in 2021, but he’s as good a chance as anyone at a second year breakout.
Isaac Cumming | ADP 207
You could probably put Lachie Ash in this spot too. If you get the chance to handcuff them together, it should increase the pick delivery chances.
The GWS Giants defensive unit has undergone an offseason overhaul, with Heath Shaw, Aiden Corr and Zac Williams departing the club. This opens up plenty of opportunities for the talented youngster. Isaac uses the ball well by hand and foot & has a high footy IQ. Certainly someone with upside late in a draft.
Liam Shiels | ADP 205
I’m all for looking for ‘upside’ late in drafts, but sometimes in the hunt for the one in a thousand breakouts (aka Luke McDonald), we ignore other solid options. Liam Shiels has been a consistent performer over numerous seasons and has also shown that he can punch out some tasty tons in the right match.
Last seasons 67.7 average (84 adjusted) isn’t horrid. While the three seasons prior, he averaged 91, 97 & 95. Getting potential numbers like that in the 20th round of a draft is a steal. He’s certainly worth the pick as some bench depth, if nothing else.
James Harmes | ADP 160
As each day passes, the earlier it seems James Harmes is going in drafts. Why? Because the experiment of him playing in the backline is over. And the club has confirmed that he’ll return to the midfield. Just 12 months ago, he was coming off a 2019 season wherein the midfield her averaged 94. If he delivers numbers like that, he’s a genuine D1 and getting picked up in drafts at a position of a D5.
Luke Davies-Uniacke | ADP 193
As a junior, Luke Davies-Uniacke drew comparisons to Carlton and West Coast champion Chris Judd. Sadly, injuries haven’t been kind over the past few seasons to the former first round pick.
Now fit, he’s finally firing and ready to establish himself in the North midfield. LDU is an explosive midfielder and has elite stoppage traits. If it all clicks for him, he can push an average of 85-95.
Xavier Duursma | ADP 253
All the preseason hype is head towards both Zak Butters and Connor Rozee. And understandably so. However, I think coaches forget about the scoring potential of Xavier Duursma. In his second AFL game, he scored 102, and across the remainder of his debut season, he scored another ton plus an additional four scores between 90-99.
The third year breakout rule is in effect for the archer, and given his ADP, the potential upside is insane. He goes from being possible last selected players, to being an on field midfielder.
Toby Nankervis | ADP 169
The knee injury to Ivan Soldo means the Tigers will likely leave Toby Nankervis as a sole ruck for the season, with various talls playing a supporting role. In 2017 & 2018, when the Tigers adopted this strategy, Toby averaged 86 & 89 in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam and 88 & 98 in SuperCoach.
If you choose or are unable to get one of Brodie Grundy, Reilly O’Brien or Max Gawn in your draft, then getting Nank as a late pickup is a handy target.
Sebastian Ross | ADP 221
All it takes is for a couple of injuries in the St Kilda side, and the relevance of Seb Ross will bolt. While you’d never wish injuries on anyone, the Saints have their fair share of ‘injury prone’ midfielders. Recruit Brad Crouch and Dan Hannebery have missed plenty of footy over the last 3 seasons. Should either miss big chunks of this season, then Seb could well get pushed back into a core midfield role.
Between 2016-2019 he averaged 98, 102, 107 & 94. At this point of the draft, where he’s basically last picked in your team, there is now risk. And he doesn’t just have ‘potential’; he’s a proven performer. When looking for upside, the ‘proven’ is a better pick than the ‘potential’ scorer.
Lance Franklin | ADP 214
Are you a forward? And do you have the potential to score over 80? If so, coaches will consider you on draft day! The scoring history of Lance Franklin even at 1,000 years old isn’t the concern. Rather it’s on his durability. But at this point of the draft, it’s all upside.
I wrote about Lance Franklin earlier in the preseason. Read his article from the 50 Most Relevant here.
Luke Shuey | ADP 122
It isn’t a ‘flashy’ pick, nor is ita drastically ‘late’ pick. But given what Luke Shuey can do, it’d be a great get to get him even at his ADP on draft day. Before 2020, Luke was an incredibly durable player, and his scoring consistency was incredibly reliable.
Between 2015-2019 he missed just 6 games and averaged 93, 94, 99, 98, 87 & 101. You can put down his poor scoring of last year due to a few injury niggles and nothing more. A fit Shuey will become one of the best picks on the draft day given his return at this point in a draft.
Mitch Wallis | ADP 221
Thin pickings here, most dogs you want OK, draft coaches, you know it, but the forward stocks in 2021 suck. So it’s players with job security and scoring potential that can pop that we’re looking at later in the draft. The Bulldogs new Vice-Captain Mitch Wallis won’t get any midfield time, but he’s safely inside the Dogs best. However, because so much of his scoring is based on tackles and goals, if the Doggies can dominate the inside 50 game, he should turn in several 70-90+ scoring games.
Every year UltimateFooty reveal an additional group of Dual Position players which is in extension to the changes handed down by champion data. Let’s take a look through the eleven additional players and their relevance to your UltimateFooty Drafts.
Young key position players regardless of which end of the ground they play aren’t great scorers. So if for whatever reason you picked Tom McCartin don’t expect much.
He’s developing nicely as a versatile swingman for the Swans, and with the drafting of Logan McDonald, we believe he’s likely to stay down back for the foreseeable. But he’s a better footballer than fantasy option right now
Chris Mayne (Collingwood – Centre) Add Back
You won’t want to be the one that picks him on draft day. But given Chris Maybe has shown over the past few seasons a tendency to deliver some solid scoring he’ll still likely get selected on draft day.
It won’t be pretty, you will get mocked, but it’s a solid depth option depending on league sizes.
Harry Perryman (GWS Giants – Centre) Add Back
For the second season running the gang at UltimateFooty have awarded back status to Harry Perryman. The inclusion of back status takes him from the potentially undrafted position, not now a viable selection.
Based on last seasons averages, he’s ranked inside the top 25 backs and should see a dump on his average draft position.
James Aish (Fremantle – Centre) Add Back
Like Perryman above, James Aish moves out of draft day purgatory as a centre, to now being a likely draft day target, all be it later in drafts.
He missed just one game last season at his new club, and even with the shorter quarters Aish still had multiple handy games. Remember ’80 was the new 100′ in 2020. And last year he had three scores over 80 with a further three 70+.
If he can maintain those scoring ratios and convert them into full length quarter returns, he could provide some handy depth despite his likely draft selection as a bench option.
There’s alot of ‘IF’s, but be honest, that’s what most late round draft flyers are… IF picks.
Adam Kennedy (GWS Giants – Centre) Add Back
If your league is this deep that you need to consider drafting a bloke who’s only had one season averaging over 65, then you might need to reconsider some life choices.
Adam Kennedy has shown that with the right matchup, he can pop the odd 80+ score. However, finding those scores are rare. Best to look elsewhere.
Jackson Hately (Adelaide Crows – Centre) Add Back
The addition of Hately is arguably the biggest potential inclusion and might even be the biggest surprise for some. At his former side GWS, Hately struggled for midfield time, and according to the gang at UltimateFooty he’s spent enough time there
For many across the UltimateFooty community this might surprise. But cast your mind back to 2020, many were pitching for him to gain back status midseason in the round 9 update.
His addition now will see him rocket up coaches back tiers and given his forecasted midfield role with Adelaide, he looks like becoming a popular breakout candidate now in our backline.
If everything falls his way, the coach that gets him on the draft day should get a great scoring return based on draft position.
Keeper and Dynasty leagues are even happier, Hately’s value just skyrocketed in 2021!
We wrote about Jackson Hately earlier in the preseason for our 50 Most Relevant series. Click Here to read and listen to the article.
No surprises here with this selection. Alongside Rowan Marshall, the former Bomber and Power bigman has split his time across the ruck and forward line at St Kilda. The DPP is not much more than squad versatility unless you have customised category scoring on. In this case, then he opens up another scoring forward with his hitouts.
The biggest benefit will be if injuries strikes teammate Rowan Marshall and he’s forced to carry the ruck load solo.
UltimateFooty considered anyone who was a second ruckman amassing 5-10 hitouts regularly. Rather than a player by player comment, we thought we’d make a generic comment about all of the new ruck eligible selections.
None of these inclusions should be pushing for an R1 spot in your side. However, if your draft teams require two on-field rucks, then these inclusions will add significant value to you. For shallower leagues, they provide added flexibility on as a bench option.
Darcy Cameron (Collingwood – Forward) Add Ruck
Oscar Allen (West Coast Eagles – Forward) Add Ruck
Levi Casboult (Carlton – Forward) Add Ruck
Luke Jackson (Melbourne – Forward) Add Ruck
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For 2021 yet again league commissioners will choose to allow (or not) for future DPP’s to be added into your league. After round 3, 6, 9, 12 & 15 we’ll bring to you exclusively the new DPP’s added to the game by UltimateFooty.
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