Josh Goater lands at Hawthorn from North Melbourne. Here’s why the Hawks wanted him and my 2027 fantasy verdict.
The Hawks know something most of the AFL world hasn’t picked up yet. Their backline is ageing out fast. Barrass, Sicily, Impey and Amon all start 2027 at 31 or older, and Hardwick turns 30. Josh Goater is 23, clean by hand, strong in the air, and he played midfield as a junior.
For North, the high hopes never turned into a regular spot in the best 23. Goater gets a fresh start and a clearer path. North gets compensation. I think everybody walks away happy.
Fantasy coaches are the exception. He averaged 55.3 in AFL Fantasy and 55.2 in SuperCoach across 6 games in 2026, and I can’t find a classic angle at either club. I explain when I’d look at him in draft and Keeper leagues, and who sits ahead of him.
