Tag: Angus Brayshaw

#49 Most Relevant | Angus Brayshaw

After years in the fantasy football wilderness, Angus Brayshaw emerged as one of the best defenders in 2022. Can he back it up and be relevant again in 2023?

PLAYER PROFILE

Name: Angus Brayshaw
Age: 26
Club: Melbourne Demons
Position: Defender

2022 Highest Score: 
156 Vs Essendon (AFLFantasy)
176 Vs Essendon (SuperCoach)

Career Highest Score: 
166 Vs Adelaide | AFLFantasy (2018)
176 Vs Essendon | SuperCoach (2022)

2022 Average: 
99.1 (AFLFantasy)
100 (SuperCoach)

SuperCoach Price: $550,300
AFLFantasy Price: $878,000
AFLDreamTeam Price: $899,500

Embed from Getty Images

WHY IS HE RELEVANT?

Angus Brayshaw is no stranger to being selected inside our fantasy football sides. It’s been a few years since coaches had been happy they selected him, but after being in the fantasy football wilderness, he established himself as one of the best defenders across the formats in 2022.

The initial cause of the scoring pop was when Christian Salem went down injured early in the first game of the season. As a result, ‘Gus’ was forced to relocate off the wing, where he won a premiership and became one of the Demons primary playmakers off half-back. Last year he ranked eleventh for uncontested possessions, thirteenth for marks & twentieth for intercepts per game. All of these are testament to his ability to find space and to work well within the Demons back six.

Across the season in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam, he scored eleven tons, five over 120, including a season-high 156. He had additional scores between 90-99, and his scores dropped below 70 just once all season. His average of 99 sees him currently ranked as the fourth most expensive defender behind Sam Docherty, Jack Sinclair and Jordan Dawson.

In SuperCoach, he scored twelve tons, five of which were higher than 120, and it featured his career-high score of 176 against Essendon. That match consisted of thirty-four possessions and an incredible twenty marks. Over the twenty-two games, he had four additional scores between 90-99 and had only five games sub 80 all year. Of all available defenders in 2023, he’s currently ranked sixth for total points and tenth by average.

His average of 99 in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam and 100 in SuperCoach is a testament to his consistency all year. However, there is an upside to Brayshaw. Over the final four rounds of the home & away season, he started to attend centre bounces. Something he had yet to do all season. In those weeks for AFLFantasy/DreamTeam, he scored 108, 100, 123 & 94 going at an average of 106. While in SuperCoach, he averaged 108 with scores of 123, 113, 113 & 83. It’s a small sample size, but it shows that you’ve got some more scoring potential left on the vine in all formats.

There are few defenders capable across all game formats, averaging 100 for an extended run & with a scoring ceiling exceeding 150. With Angus Brayshaw, you have both. Gus also has the important round 14 bye. Beyond him, only James Sicily & Jordan Dawson are eligible for defensive premiums.

Embed from Getty Images

MY TAKE

It was a long time in between fantasy football-relevant drinks for Angus Brayshaw. 2018 was the only other year he’d averaged over 90. That year he excelled and averaged 105.1 in AFLFantasty/DreamTeam and 97 in SuperCoach. So while 2022 isn’t an isolated event, it does stand out like a sore thumb compared to the rest of his career.

What does have people seriously considering starting with Gus is the way he ended the season with an average over 105 across the formats, but importantly as a midfielder based at the centre bounces. In that final month + AFL finals, he was the clear third-choice midfielder, with only Jack Viney and Clayton Oliver spending more time at CBA’s.

The key question coaches considering Brayshaw must answer is what role he holds down for 2023? And how secure is he within it? We saw last year that his coach was happy to use him across various roles and positions to fix gaps within the side. During the season, Goodwin was asked about Brayshaw’s role moving forward in the side, and he said, “Angus has been clear that he’ll do whatever he needs to do for what the Melbourne footy club needs.”

Last year Brayshaw played three key roles, each fulfilling a primary coaching directive. Between rounds 1-11, he played as a half-back to cover the absence of Christian Salem. In that stretch of eleven matches, he averaged 95.6 in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam and 92.8 in SuperCoach.

Upon Salem’s return, Brayshaw maintained his role in the backline while floating between defence and midfield. During that seven-game stretch between rounds 12-19, he averaged 100 in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam and 106.5 in SuperCoach.

Before finally, the centre bounces arrived, he averaged 106 in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam and 108 in SuperCoach over four games. Why did he move into the midfield? Simple, to allow Christian Petracca more time inside forward 50. Placing him there more regulalrly added dynamically to a forward line that failed to find the same potency as their premiership season.  

Nobody can have confidence in a season-long role for Brayshaw. So if you’re selecting him based on him being a CBA midfielder, then you’re going ‘all in’ on the Demons structures, not using him as a swingman. That’s a bold and historically dangerous decision.

The Melbourne midfield dynamic will change this season. Brodie Grundy’s arrival and Luke Jackson’s departure will do that. Let alone the lifeline they threw to Lachie Hunter. He’s no certainty for best 22, but he could absolutely find a role.

For those seriously considering Angus in their starting squad, the above splits should give you some confidence that even with some positional instability, he still possesses scoring pedigree, and his ‘poor’ output should still see him among the top dozen defenders.

Equally, I can see coaches fading on starting him. While there is upside potential, it’s not a drastic upside. We’re only talking about a handful of points. So even with a strong start, he should still be attainable in price. The same might not be able to be said for players like Sam Docherty, Tom Stewart, Jack Sinclair or even Jordan Dawson.

He won’t be a ‘sexy pick’ pick in starting squads, but he deserves his place in the conversation as one of the most relevant players to consider in 2023.

DRAFT DECISION

It’s early in the preseason, but the popular trend is to lock away one of the premier forwards and the high-end midfielders. The odd defender might go off the board in the second round, but it’ll be late second. In reality, we should start to see our D1’s leaving the draft board somewhere between the third and fourth rounds. If you want to own Angus Brayshaw, you’ll need to snag him here. 

JOIN THE CONVERSATION

Do you believe he is fantasy relevant?
Will you be starting with him?
Have your say on our Facebook,  Twitter or Instagram. 

WANT EARLY ACCESS?

Want access 24 hours early to the 50 Most Relevant podcasts? Join our Patreon and get ahead of the Crowd

UltimateFooty | Round 6 Positional Changes

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.

Embed from Getty Images

Dayne Zorko | ADD BACK

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.

Embed from Getty Images

Errol Gulden | ADD CENTRE

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.

Become a Patron!

Brad Hill| ADD CENTRE

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.

Embed from Getty Images

Shane Edwards | ADD FORWARD

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. 

Become a Patron!

Will Hoskin-Elliott | ADD FORWARD

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.

UltimateFooty | Possible DPP Additions | Round Six

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.

Embed from Getty Images

Angus Brayshaw | ADD BACK

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.

Embed from Getty Images

Isaac Heeney | ADD MID

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.

Embed from Getty Images

Darcy Fort | ADD FWD

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.

Possible DPP’s | Round 6

Before rounds 6, 12 and 18, the gang at Champion Data add some new DPP into the game. After round 5 concludes on Monday, the first list of names and positions will be released. Historically, players need a minimum of 35% to be considered for a new allocation in a new position. So, we have in-season DPP additions for the first time in SuperCoach & DreamTeam history. For AFLFantasy coaches, you are an old hand at these. So let’s see which players are locks, close or no chance of getting DPP.

Embed from Getty Images

ADD DEFENDER

Luke McDonald

In the preseason, a popular (and sometimes inaccurate) data narrative is when people remove a game’s score to tell a greater story of what they score. If you did that for Luke McDonald and his 2022 season while removing the round three, 100 points grubbing game from his average, he’d be averaging 109.6 in SuperCoach and 92.6 in AFLFantasy.

The Kangaroos have redeployed him into the backline, where he had his breakout fantasy scoring of 2020. The addition of DEF status is a formality and one of Champion Data’s easiest decisions. The bigger question facing fantasy coaches is where do you rank him amongst the topline defenders? Your answer will determine how quickly or if you prioritise him as a trade target. L-Mac still presents significant value based on his current price vs scoring output.

Brandon Ellis

For years, Brandon Ellis has been a fantasy-relevant player at both Richmond and Gold Coast. He’s also shown he can score well whether he’s on the wing or back to his current role, which is more a rebounder off half-back. Sadly as much as the DPP of DEF/MID should hit, the Sun’s game style isn’t fantasy footy friendly.  

Dayne Zorko

This could be one of the most relevant DPP additions of the entire season. Dayne Zorko has shown his ability to put up 100s and with some serious frequency consistently for multiple years. Coming back from surgery, we’ve seen some of the worst scores and best scores of Zorko. In rounds two and three, he scored 145 & 106 in AFLFanasy and 116 & 105 in SuperCoach. So he’s still got the capacity to go big. The play will be to grab him in a few weeks. By then, last weekends poor score roles out of his price cycle, and he should be nearing full health. Dayne, you are officially on the list!

Angus Brayshaw

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 already in drafts.

Jordan Clark

Another good addition for coaches. As a midfielder, only Jordan Clark is only just rosterable for most leagues. However, as a defender, he becomes a genuine on-field option or an emergency in deeper leagues.  

Scott Pendlebury

Two weeks ago the incoming DEF status was a near formality, now I’m not 100% convinced we’ll get him. In the opening two rounds, Scott Pendlebury attended under 40% of centre bounces, but in the previous two games, he’s been at 50% & 43%.

Nick Daicos

Like his skipper, Nick Daicos was a certainty a few weeks ago, but he’s been seen more frequently in the front half of the field over the past two weeks. One of the key DPP criteria Champion Data uses is players’ starting position at the centre bounce. For that reason, I’m optimistic that he should still have done enough over the totality of the year so far to pick it up. He’s often starting at half-back and then pushing up the ground. 

His addition to our backlines couldn’t come fast enough. With low scoring back cows in Sam DeKoning, Mitch Hinge, Paddy McCartin and Sam Skinner all dominating our D6-8, it could be the perfect on-field scoring boost we need.

Josh Battle

Another one for draft coaches to get excited by. While Josh Battle’s relevance is as an FWD listed player, gaining DEF status will add some serious flexibility within your squad. As injuries, suspensions, plus health & safety protocols hit, having the ability to flip players around and not drop quality into the player pool is critical. So having Battle as a DEF/FWD should be a very helpful gain. 

Josh Kennedy

Currently, Josh Kennedy is being eased into and through the season across the Swan’s defensive unit. His average right now makes him irrelevant, even in drafts. BUT, all it takes is a few injuries to the Swans and his relevancy skyrockets. That’s not wishing injuries on anyone but highlighting how quickly a player’s value can change in this game. 

David Swallow

The potential gain of DPP for David Swallow will have more name value than the scoring value in 2022. The former #1 draft pick is currently scoring well below the scores of his past few seasons. The primary factor is the midfielder is spending little to no time through this line. Rather he’s often playing deep inside the defensive 50. If the Suns shake his role up, he could become relevant in drafts. However, in classic, I don’t see him being a viable topline scorer even if he gets his old midfield role back.

Embed from Getty Images

ADD MIDFIELD

Isaac Heeney

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

Cntrl C & Cntrl V! The exact same sentiment for Zak Butters as it is for Heeney.

Become a Patron!

Jack Sinclair

I could almost make it a trio of similar comments, but I won’t. Jack Sinclair is proving to be one of the biggest surprise packets of the fantasy football year. The dashing defender has brought his skills and speed higher up the ground, and as a result, he’s reaping the fantasy scoring rewards. An average of 103 in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam and 116.3 is miles above anyone’s imagination. If he keeps up this scoring trend, he’ll be someone we have to have as a top tier defender. The probable DPP DEF/MID gain is just gravy to what has already been a stunning start to the season.

Nick Martin

In 2022 we’ve been blessed with so many good cash cows. Nick Martin is just one of a handful of players making significant coin for owners. What makes his likely incoming DPP so helpful is it can help activate some other trade moves and squad flexibility. Don’t just look at the CBA data for projecting DPPs; that’s not the whole story. Especially in the case of Martin. His midfield time isn’t at centre bounces but rather on the wing.

Embed from Getty Images

ADD RUCK

Tristan Xerri

An absolute lock for DPP addition. Tristan Xerri is the clear leader of the ruck division attending between 50% – 70% of centre bounces over the past four weeks. This DPP gain will add hugely relevant flexibility to the link between the RUC/FWD division, especially for those who own Jack Hayes, Hugh Dixon or both.

Embed from Getty Images

ADD FORWARD

Rowan Marshall

This will be touch and go DPP gain for Rowan Marshall. In round one, he was playing primarily as a ruck. But over the past three weeks, he’s increasingly played a role more inside forward 50. So it might all come down to a role this weekend. Where and how he plays might tip his percentage of role either over or under the cut off line.

Luke Parker

If Luke Parker does gain MID/FWD status, he’s someone right in the mix for me to consider. On current scoring, he’s not an option, but on history, he could be a beast for us. As it stands, he’s averaging 79 in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam and 89 in SuperCoach, with just his round one ton across the formats his only triple-digit score. As the wetter months begin to hit, the pace of footy can often start to slow, and contested beasts start to shine. 

If that combines with the price of Parker continuing to slide, we could hit a perfect moment that makes him impossible to ignore. Watch his role over the next few weeks because this could be both a bargain premium and the forward putting him midfield numbers.

Tom Liberatore

The squeeze for midfield minutes at the Bulldogs was always resulting in a midfielder being forced to play out of their preferred position. So far, it appears that Tom Liberatore is the player having the biggest loss of midfield minutes. The contested ball beast spends time at CBA, but only in a secondary capacity. He hasn’t played a game in 2022 with over 40% CBA’s. That likely MID/FWD status will be a huge boost for draft owners, but it’ll require a role reversal and a primary CBA role to make him relevant in classic. If that happens, especially in SuperCoach, then he’s a player to target with a trade. 

Noah Balta

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. His scoring average isn’t horrible, but it won’t be something to celebrate even in a weakened forward line in many draft leagues. However, it could add some handy squad flexibility in the category scoring leagues or deeper dynasty style leagues.

Todd Goldstein

The rebuild of the Kangaroos is well underway. As a result, some 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. The likely DPP gain could become handy later in the year; we never can fully know what’s ahead. He’s only draft relevant at the moment, but should an injury-hit, then it could be all aboard the Gold train.

Tom De Koning

Before last weekend, Tom De Koning had played a split forward and ruck role. Eventually, the Blues see him as the #1 ruck but are happily taking their time in developing him. The addition of RUC/FWD is a certainty and could be relevant in drafts, especially if Pittonet continues to miss games.

Jason Horne-Francis

Before the 2022 season started, the narrative was that Hornet would be a lock to get MID/FWD status at this point of the season. However, in the past three weeks, he’s had 55%, 59%, and 75% centre bounce attendances last week. So you can kiss his DPP chance right now if he has another game as he did at the Swans. However, if the Roos ease off his midfield minutes back to under 30%, then he’s a ripping chance to get it. I think he’s less likely than likely to get DPP at the current percentage. But there’s still one more game of data to go.

Become a Patron!

Darcy Fort

The former Cat is plugging along ok with solid scores, and a reasonable RUC/FWD split at Brisbane. His scoring isn’t amazing, but depending on the depth of your draft league, 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.

Connor Macdonald

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. By the time this DPP hits, coaches will probably be considering moving him on, as his low score from last week has probably stunted his cash generation plans for the immediate future.

James Harmes

Last year the Demons had a staple midfield core of Clayton Oliver, Christian Petracca, Jack Viney and James Harmes. However, this year, Tom Sparrow has surpassed Harmes as the fourth option in what’s a tight CBA rotation for the Melbourne Footy Club. As a result, Harmes and Sparrow have almost flipped roles, and James is often playing a heavy pressure forward 50 roles. It’s not a ‘classic’ relevant gain, but depending on the depth of your draft league on-field, it could be a very helpful addition. 

Bailey Smith

Earlier in the article, I spoke about the fact that a player’s starting position at the centre bounce is a primary decision factor in DPP allocation. For Bailey Smith, he’s playing through the midfield. However, when not at a centre bounce, it’s often with him starting at half-forward and then pushing high up the ground. It’s less likely, but if Bevo goes full ‘Bevo’ and plays him as a heavy forward split this weekend, we might get lucky! 

UltimateFooty | Possible DPP Additions | Round Three

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.

Embed from Getty Images

Angus Brayshaw | ADD BACK

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.

Become a Patron!

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 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.

Become a Patron!

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. 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.

Way too early 2020 watchlist

The AFL Trade and Free agency period is well underway, and despite it being months before the prices and positions are revealed at The Coaches Panel we wanted to take a look at a player from each club that we have pencilled onto our 2020 watchlist.

If you do want to read our take on every player movement from the free agency and trade window then you can join our Patreon army.

Adelaide Crows

Ned McHenry | Injuries have stalled any chance of a debut, but the positive means he’ll be basement price for us in 2020. He offers everything the Crows midfield unit lack. High pressure, work rate, skills and is a bundle of excitement.

Brisbane Lions

Alex Witherden | One mans trash is another’s treasure. Sadly Alex has had a drop of about 10 points per game and has burned plenty of fantasy coaches this year. With Luke Hodge hanging up the boots (again), then I think we need to seriously consider the potential value he presents. 

Carlton Blues

Charlie Curnow | I might be on my own here, but two seasons ago he was one of the most excited breakout candidates. This year he scored his lowest seasonal average since his debut. On top of this, he may be eligible for a possible small discount due to missing 11 games, and we could have a considerable value pick on our hands. The severity and impact of his basketball-related knee injury have on his preseason will determine whether or not he stays here for long.

Collingwood Magpies

Taylor Adams | Another frustrating season battling injury resulted in just ten games. The one positive for next year is he should get an injury discount of a minimum of 10%. Throw this on top of a low 90’s average, and he could be one of the best-underpriced premiums of 2020. 

Essendon Bombers

Devon Smith | It’s low hanging fruit in terms of how noticeable a candidate he is, but with many bombers having minimal fantasy footy relevance he is the one to highlight. Last season he played only seven games before injury which guarantees him to get some form of discount. Whether that’s higher than 10% will be determined by each formats creators. The bonus is he was already averaging 25 points below his 2018 season numbers, meaning the possible value could make him one of the most selected players in 2020 mainly if he retains forward eligibility which I believe he will.

Fremantle Dockers

Andrew Brayshaw | With Ed Langdon and Brad Hill both out the door in the trade period and David Mundy in the twilight of his career the time is right for Andy to emerge and take a key midfield role alongside Nat Fyfe. Priced at 70 in all formats he looms as a ripping breakout candidate if given the opportunity.  

Geelong Cats

Sam Menegola | Have you picked up on the theme yet that a lot of this ‘watchlist’ players are premiums from previous seasons but had injury impacted years? Sam’s one of those with injuries limiting him to just nine games, meaning he should qualify for a 10% discount. Added to this he also experienced some inconsistency in midfield minutes which forced his average to drop of 15-20 points. 

Gold Coast Suns

Jack Bowes | A broad view may look at his seasonal average around the mid-’70s this year and not think he offers much. Sometimes as a fantasy coach, we need to look a little deeper into the numbers to see the value. In the opening five games of the year, he was going at an average of 92 in AFLFantasy and  99.8 SuperCoach. To top it off with him playing 14 games it might just qualify for injury discount. Fingers crossed. 

GWS Giants

Stephen Coniglio | An inconsistent year for Cogs when it came to his body. After playing 22 games last year, he could manage just the 15 in 2019. He dropped 7 points per game in terms of average from the previous year, but coaches need to take the time to analyse for the scoring drop. One of the key reasons behind the fall was due to his round 17 game against the Tigers where he got injured on 0 points, causing chaos for the 20%+ of coaches that owned him. Without that game, his averages look much healthier of  111 in AFLFantasy and 108 in SuperCoach. Missing seven games might mean he misses getting an injury impacted discount on his starting price. The reality is we have one already due to that Richmond game. I’m very keen to start him in 2020, arguably priced 10 points under his scoring potential of 110. 

Hawthorn Hawks

Tom Mitchell | He missed 2019 with a broken leg and had he not got injured he would’ve been one of the most selected players in all forms of the game. He’s eligible for a sizeable discount, meaning for many he’s an instant starter. However, I’m more keen to see how he moves and looks through the preseason. With ‘Titch’ even with a hefty discount, he’ll still be among one of the most expensive players in the competition, that’s a lot of money invested in your starting squad, and you must get it right at that price tag. 

Melbourne Demons

Angus Brayshaw | Seven months ago the fantasy footy community was ablaze at his potential after storming home last season. He started 2019 and even ended it OK, but during the majority of the season due to a combination of role change and form, we saw his fantasy scores plummet. Gus dropped over 15 points per game avg across all formats and became a serious burn man for many coaches. The positive for us is as we enter into 2020 he will be priced next year in the mid-’80s.  His scoring potential can be further 20-25 points per game above pricing. The first step in his fantasy footy resurrection will be the Demons can land some wingman with skills and pace. If they do, it’s a piece of the puzzle that’ll see Angus moved back into the midfield role required to score well. 

North Melbourne Kangaroos

Luke Davies-Uniake |  If he gains FWD Status then I’m going to consider him. LDU  presents seriously huge third-year breakout potential, especially as he needs to start getting the midfield opportunities at Arden street. 

Port Adelaide Power

Ryan Burton | Injuries have plagued him over his career, but both at the hawks and now at Port, we’ve seen that a fit Burton holds plenty of fantasy relevance. During a four-week window post-bye, we saw his scoring potential. In SuperCoach he posted scores of 105, 96, 79 & 108 while in AFLFantasy it was 93, 110, 69 & 92. If he can stay fit, then he needs to be on your watchlist. 

Richmond Tigers

Dustin Martin | This all depends on if he gains forward eligibility or not. If He’s a MID/FWD, then I’ll find it very difficult to pass on him. His role in the AFL finals may determine whether or not he qualifies as forward eligible.  

St Kilda Saints

Dan Hannebery | A frustrating year for the former Swan who only managed to play in 5 games this year. The positive of this is two-fold, firstly he will receive an injury impacted discount due to the number of games he missed. Secondly, when he did play scored well with four of his five games seeing him score 90+ including two hundreds and an average in high 90’s across all formats
He may not present the same value as he did this year, but if Dan gets through the preseason unscathed, he is genuine underpriced premium.

Sydney Swans

Oli Florent | Place him as a breakout candidate, because as this year went on, he just got better and better. Florent possesses line-breaking speed, uses the ball well by foot and is one of the shining lights for the Swans both for now and the future. Three of his final four games in AFLFantasy he scored 91, 113 and 98, while in SuperCoach he scored 82, 102 and 106. He’ll be priced at his seasonal average of 69, but I have confidence that he could well be a stepping stone well worth considering.

West Coast Eagles

Nic Naitanui | Are you considering not starting with a set and forget ruck strategy next year? Then for SuperCoach, you need to consider NicNat seriously. Over the past 18 months, injuries have been cruel to NicNat, but we have seen that when he plays, even in the limited game given this year, he can score well. Last year he averaged low 90’s from just three games, meaning he will be discount eligible. In addition to this, his past three years averages are 96, 105, 103 so Nic could well provide excellent value as a stop-gap to a top tier ruck if you’re looking for a different approach.

Western Bulldogs

Josh Dunkley | After a slow start he was one of the most damaging forward options of the season, and with a likely loss of forward eligibility, his ownership numbers could plummet due to him being a midfielder only. However, with 14 of the last 16 games seeing him score 100+ and many of them captaincy capable scores he could be a sneaky point of difference in your starting side.

Love Coaches Panel? Join the Patreon Army & get access to exclusive content

Become a Patron!
#40 Most Relevant: Angus Brayshaw

12 months ago he was 1 concussion away from a career over, but in 2018 he was one of the best defenders.

PLAYER PROFILE

Name: Angus Brayshaw
Age: 22
Club: Melbourne Demons
Position: Midfield

2018 Highest Score: 
166 Vs Adelaide (AFLFantasy)
130 Vs Adelaide (SuperCoach)

2018 Average: 
105.1 (AFLFantasy)
97 (SuperCoach)

SuperCoach Price: $526,900
AFLFantasy Price: $763,000
AFLDreamTeam Price: $751,800

Embed from Getty Images

WHY IS HE RELEVANT?

It all finally came together for this much-beloved Demon in 2018. For 2 straight years of battling constant concussion issues, he found health and my goodness did he find plenty of the ball. After starting the season in the VFL for the first few rounds he finally won his way into the side, however, was used sparingly in the middle and like the 5 games he played in 2017 Brayshaw was used off half-back and kept out of the contest as much as possible.

Then from Round 7, everything changed for Angus Brayshaw a move that would make him one of the most owned fantasy footy defenders for the rest of 2018. Gus was released into the midfield and his numbers skyrocketed. From that point on in the year in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam he posted 12 scores above the hundred, 4 of them over 130 and between round 7-23 (16 matches) he averaged 112. For SuperCoach while not as strong during the same stretch, he still managed to hit the triple figure mark on 10 occasions, 7 of these above 115 and averaged 101.

Some may suggest that the reason Brayshaw scored as well as he did was due to the absence for most of the season of captain Jack Viney from the Melbourne midfield. However, during the 7 games, he played with Jack in the side during the Home & Away season it seemed to have minimal fantasy impact given Angus Brayshaw averaged 100 in SuperCoach and 113 in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam.

Last year Gus got the balance right in his game averaging 27 possessions a game, but just 11 of those contested. Instead of always being the one winning the contest like in his debut season it appears he and the Dees are using him in a perfect way for his fantasy numbers to make him very relevant. That said, given his at times wayward disposal efficiency (66% last year) his fantasy footy scoring lends himself more to DreamTeam and AFLFantasy. And in 2019, while he could present value in SuperCoach I feel his relevancy is in the other formats for salary cap coaches.

With the loss of defensive status this year, his ownership numbers will plummet but like we saw last year with Jackson Macrae a loss of DPP shouldn’t mean we rule them out of the equation. If he can deliver what he did last year during that 4 month stretch for the whole season, then especially in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam he’s got potentially 10 points of growth in his game and become a top 10 midfielder.

MY TAKE

Can hold his scoring, let alone go another gear? That’s a valid question not just for Gus but for most players that broke out and went well over and above what anyone could forecast. He isn’t ‘overpriced’, as I’ve seen some in the fantasy community suggest as he’s priced at what he delivered last year. However, at his price point especially in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam, he needs to go on and become a top 10 midfielder by seasonal average.

Can you confidently see him matching it in averages for the full season with the likes of Josh Kelly, Nat Fyfe, Zac Merrett, Matt Crouch, Tom Mitchell, Jack Macrae, Andrew Gaff, Stephen Coniglio, Patrick Cripps and even teammate Clayton Oliver who depending on which fantasy footy site you read seem to all be locks for 110+ averages. Do you have confidence Gus can do that in AFLFantasy? If you don’t, while yes being unique, at his price to start him you need to be otherwise he’s just one to consider as an upgrade in season.

While for those playing SuperCoach you’re choosing him over a player I wrote about a few days ago in Rory Sloane who’s less than $3,000 cheaper and more proven in terms of both ceiling and seasonal averages. Personally, I know which way I’d prefer to go. At his price, he’s not a stepping stone but a cheap, and potentially unique M8. He needs to be able to bump that average up to a minimum of 105 for the year, while that’s not getting him into the top 10, it would rank him likely in the top 15-20.

While it certainly seems well past him we do have to consider his history of head injuries and concussions. While any player is one twist, turn, knock or bump away from serious injury, based on his history fantasy coaches that do select him to need to know the possible risks that come with it. Fingers crossed it doesn’t happen but a concussion for Brayshaw may seem him miss more than just the standard week, but multiple and may even cost you a trade. Again, I hope and pray he gets through the year unscathed as I love watching him play, but more than other players his history suggests the impact of another head injury would take him longer to overcome.

It’s a hard pass for me in starting squads for SuperCoach as I have more confidence in a Rory Sloane type player, while in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam he’s not in my starting squad but right in calculations as an upgrade target. Especially after the sides round 13 bye with matches against Fremantle, Brisbane, Carlton and the Western Bulldogs the first 4 games after the break. That’s a delicious 4 games considering last year against those sides he scored 113 (Dockers), 101 (Blues) and 133 (Bulldogs).

Embed from Getty Images

DRAFT DECISIONS

Depending on the format you play will determine what round and what midfield position you select him in. For AFLFantasy/DreamTeam he’s currently ranked as a top 15 midfielder so he’ll likely go inside the first 2-3 rounds and likely be someone’s M2.

For SuperCoach drafters he’ll go much later and likely go in an M3-M4 position but still be gone somehwere inside the opening 7-9 rounds.

In a keeper league given what he delivered last year and the fact he’s still inside his early 20’s, I can’t see the existing owner giving him up, for a start-up league he’ll likely go inside the first 30 selections.

JOIN THE CONVERSATION

Do you believe he is fantasy relevant?
Will you be starting with him?
Have your say at our Facebook,  Twitter or Instagram. 

WANT EARLY ACCESS?

Want access 24 hours early to the 50 Most Relevant podcasts? Join our Patreon and get ahead of the Crowd!

Become a Patron!

NEXT UP…

Tune into our Facebook page at 9pmEDST for a clue