Tag: Fremantle Dockers

#5 Most Relevant | Andrew Brayshaw

WHY IS HE RELEVANT?

In the wake of an impressive 2022 season, Andrew Brayshaw showcased his prowess yet again, emerging as one of the league’s standout young midfield talents. He has consistently maintained an average of over 25 disposals per game for three consecutive years, showcasing his remarkable ability to win possessions.

Andrew Brayshaw’s ascent into the fantasy football elite continued unabated in the 2023 AFL season, with the Fremantle midfielder consolidating his status as a premier ball-winner and affirming his reliability as a fantasy asset. In AFLFantasy, Brayshaw’s prolific scoring saw him register 18 tons, tying him with Rory Laird for the most over the past two seasons, a testament to his consistency and scoring prowess. His ability to surpass the 120-point threshold on six occasions and peak with a breathtaking 157 points in a single game highlights the immense ceiling Brayshaw possesses. Aside from a solitary dip, Brayshaw maintained a scoring floor that never fell below 90, underscoring his role as a stalwart in fantasy lineups.

The narrative was similar in SuperCoach, where Brayshaw’s average of 108.9 was bolstered by 16 tons, including seven scores above 120. His rank for total points and average amongst midfielders places him firmly in the top echelons of fantasy performers, further cementing his status as a must-have in any competitive team.

However, Brayshaw’s season was challenging. An early-season knee injury threatened to derail his campaign, leading to a comparatively modest start by his lofty standards. Over the initial seven rounds, Brayshaw’s AFLFantasy average hovered around 102.5, with SuperCoach performances even more affected, averaging just 91 points per game. Yet, the mark of Brayshaw’s class and resilience was his remarkable recovery post-injury, elevating his average to 113.7 in AFLFantasy and an impressive 116.7 in SuperCoach for the remainder of the season. This turnaround speaks volumes of Brayshaw’s physical recovery and mental fortitude as he navigated through early adversity to finish the season on a high note.

This resilience and late-season surge present a compelling narrative for fantasy coaches pondering Brayshaw’s inclusion in their 2024 squads. The potential for scoring upside based on his end-of-season form, combined with his demonstrated capacity to overcome physical setbacks, makes Brayshaw an attractive proposition. His proven track record over the past two seasons, with averages well into the triple digits across both major fantasy formats, reinforces the notion that Brayshaw is among the elite midfield options today.

As coaches weigh their options for the upcoming season, Brayshaw’s combination of consistency, scoring ceiling, and resilience to injury offers a reassuring blend of reliability and explosive potential. With Fremantle’s midfield dynamics continuing to evolve, Brayshaw’s role as a key contributor is expected to remain unchanged, ensuring his relevance and desirability in fantasy football circles. As the 2024 season approaches, the question for coaches is not if Brayshaw should feature in their plans but rather how to best integrate his talents into a winning fantasy strategy.

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MY TAKE

Andrew Brayshaw’s recent surge in fantasy football relevance is a testament to his consistent performance on the field, making him a worthwhile investment for fantasy coaches aiming for top-tier midfield prowess.

With a landscape devoid of last year’s value picks like Tim Taranto, Tom Green, Caleb Serong, Connor Rozee, and Nick Daicos—who all provided captaincy value with their ability to jump from 90s to 110+ averages—Brayshaw’s established baseline of 110 across recent seasons becomes even more appealing. His durability and dependability, highlighted by not missing a game and maintaining a high scoring average, underscore his value, even if it might seem he’s priced at his peak.

Concerns about Hayden Young’s shift into the midfield impacting Brayshaw’s scoring potential are unfounded. The data from the last five games, where they shared midfield duties, only reinforces Brayshaw’s scoring efficiency, with averages soaring to 116 in AFLFantasy and 122 in SuperCoach. This indicates that Brayshaw’s game benefits from the dynamic midfield composition, allowing him to excel in a more outside role.

Looking ahead to Fremantle’s early fixture list—featuring Brisbane, North Melbourne, Adelaide, Carlton, Port Adelaide, West Coast, Western Bulldogs, and Richmond—Brayshaw is in a prime position to exploit favourable matchups. Additionally, with Caleb Serong likely drawing the opponent’s tag, Brayshaw’s path to increased scoring becomes even clearer.

The strategic value of having Brayshaw during the challenging stretch of bye rounds cannot be overstated. His presence in your lineup ensures a high-scoring premium midfielder is available when player availability is most constrained, thus reducing the impact of lower-scoring rookies on your team’s performance.

Brayshaw presents a solid vice-captaincy or captaincy option each week due to his proven scoring ceiling and stands out as a beacon of reliability and potential growth. With all signs pointing towards a season where Brayshaw could average around 115, fantasy coaches have every reason to be bullish on his prospects for the upcoming season.

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DRAFT DECISION

Andrew Brayshaw’s stellar performances have solidified his status as a top-tier midfielder, warranting consideration for a coveted M1 position in AFLFantasy leagues. His consistent scoring, highlighted by many ton-plus games, positions him as a cornerstone for any fantasy team, making him a viable first-round pick for coaches looking to build a winning foundation.

Brayshaw’s prowess isn’t just limited to AFLFantasy; in SuperCoach, while his 2023 average might slot him into an M2 role, his proven track record and scoring ceiling justify elevating him to an M1 status, especially if it aligns with securing a standout premium in another line.

Brayshaw’s blend of consistency, scoring potential, and midfield dominance make him an indispensable asset across formats, and coaches would do well to prioritize him in the early stages of their draft, ensuring a solid midfield anchor around which to construct their fantasy roster.

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#7 Most Relevant | Hayden Young

The breakout for Hayden Young was tipped to come in 2023. But were we 12 months early? Based on his ownership percentage and a change in team role, he looms as one of the most relevant players in the coming SuperCoach & AFLFantasy season.

WHY IS HE RELEVANT?

Hayden Young, known for his precision and composure with the ball, is quickly becoming one of Fremantle Dockers’ most crucial players. As a defender, his elite ball use by foot and ability to read the game has always stood out.

However, his move into the midfield in 2023 truly showcased the breadth of his talent. This positional change allowed Young to demonstrate his versatility and effectiveness in contesting and distributing the ball, with a career-highlight performance of 33 disposals against the Brisbane Lions.

His exceptional season culminated in his first top-five finish in the prestigious Doig Medal, marking 2023 as the year Hayden Young solidified his place as a key component of Fremantle’s future.

In AFLFantasy, he delivered a solid average of 89.2, including seven scores that reached the century mark, with his peak performance being a 119-point game. However, it’s noteworthy that he also registered seven scores below the 80-point threshold, reflecting some inconsistency in his output. Despite these fluctuations, Young finished the year ranked as the 15th-best defender in terms of total points and average, marking him as a valuable asset in fantasy lineups.

SuperCoach saw Young further enhance his credentials, boasting a higher average 93.9. His ability to break into the triple digits was even more pronounced in this format, with ten tons throughout the season, including three standout performances exceeding 120 points. The lower frequency of sub-80 scores, just five across the year, showcased a greater consistency in SuperCoach than AFLFantasy. This consistency propelled him to rank 13th among defenders for average and total points, solidifying his status as a dependable choice for fantasy coaches seeking a robust defender with the capacity to score heavily and regularly.

Late in the season, Young was moved into the midfield. Here, he averaged 74% time at centre bounces and scored 83, 119, 102, 91 & 94 in AFLFantasy, totalling a five-game average of 97.8. He had a bump of almost 10 points per game from his seasonal average. While in SuperCoach, he posted scores of 69, 123, 118, 113, and 111 and averaged 106.8.

The move was a success because of his fantasy scoring uptick and because it quickly became evident that Hayden was the missing piece for this Fremantle midfield. His height, tackle pressure, and physicality enabled a newfound defensive layer. This was evident when he played a tagging role on Patrick Dangerfield. Additionally, his long and skilful left foot added a dynamic delivery inside forward 50 and became an impact for inside 50s and score involvements. He compliments the midfield perfectly alongside Caleb Serong and Andrew Brayshaw.

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MY TAKE

Navigating the Fremantle Dockers’ midfield dynamics, Hayden Young’s transition from halfback to midfield seems like it could be better for his scoring potential and that of his teammates, Andrew Brayshaw and Caleb Serong. This trio complements each other effectively, promising a balanced midfield unit without apparent statistical drawbacks to Young’s fantasy output. Drawing inspiration from the likes of Rory Laird and Jordan Dawson, who successfully transitioned from premium defenders to uber-premium midfielders, Young has the potential to mirror this trajectory, offering fantasy coaches a best-case scenario reminiscent of Dawson’s stellar 2023 season.

The anticipation surrounding Young is not without its considerations. While his current high ownership in fantasy leagues underscores the community’s confidence, it also elevates the risk for those contemplating betting against his success. This scenario echoes the 2023 sentiment surrounding Nick Daicos, where his breakout performance quickly became a pain point for non-owners that, if not resolved, quickly derailed their season.

The initial fixtures against Brisbane and North Melbourne further spotlight Young’s role versatility, as evidenced by his effective tagging against Lachie Neale last year, yielding impressive scores of 119 in AFLFantasy and 123 in SuperCoach as a midfielder.

Moreover, the prospect of Young gaining dual-position status only amplifies his value, offering strategic flexibility to fantasy squads. The critical Round 13 bye aligns perfectly with strategic planning for the multi-bye rounds, making Young a potential high scorer and a tactical asset for navigating the fantasy season. Considering all factors, the high stakes of excluding Young from your starting side underscore the significance of making informed, strategic decisions in the early phases of the fantasy football season.

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DRAFT DECISION

Hayden’s burgeoning reputation and preseason hype significantly influence his value. Despite his performance metrics positioning him as a D2 option based on average scores, the demand and expectations surrounding him suggest that fantasy coaches must invest a D1 price tag to secure him.

This discrepancy between statistical output and market value is a testament to Young’s perceived potential and the anticipation of further development. Coaches eager to have Young on their roster must be prepared to act early, as the competition to acquire his services will likely push his draft position higher than traditional metrics suggest. If you’re unwilling to pay a premium, be prepared for someone else in your league to capitalize on his upside.

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#19 Most Relevant | Caleb Serong

Discover why Fremantle Dockers’ Caleb Serong is a must-consider pick for your AFLFantasy & SuperCoach lineups in 2023 as we delve into his scoring potential, growth areas, and strategic value ahead of the season. Learn how Serong’s leadership role, fixture advantages, and resilience against tags can elevate your fantasy football strategy, making him a pivotal selection for achieving bye-round balance and maximizing points.

WHY IS HE RELEVANT?

Caleb Serong epitomizes the heart and soul of the Fremantle Dockers’ midfield with his relentless style of play and significant importance to the team. Known for his fierce competitiveness and exceptional ability to win contested possessions, Serong has quickly established himself as a cornerstone of the Dockers’ engine room.

His tenacity at stoppages and his knack for clearances allow Fremantle to transition from defence to attack efficiently, making him a critical player in shaping the game’s tempo and momentum. Beyond his physical attributes, Serong’s football IQ stands out, with his decision-making under pressure and skill execution contributing significantly to the team’s offensive strategies.

Despite his relatively young age, his leadership qualities inspire his teammates and exemplify the Dockers’ hard work and determination ethos. Serong’s role extends beyond mere ball-getting; he embodies the spirit and future direction of the Fremantle Dockers, making him an indispensable figure within the squad.

Serong’s statistical performance over the past season underscores his exceptional contribution to the Fremantle Dockers and his rising stature within the AFL. His remarkable ability to dominate at the coalface of the game saw him rank within the top 5 league-wide for several key midfield indicators: centre clearances, contested possessions, disposals, and stoppage clearances per game.

This highlights his prowess in winning the ball under pressure and his capacity to drive his team’s midfield dynamics, making him one of the most effective players in the league in these critical areas.

Moreover, Serong’s influence extended beyond his ball-winning abilities, as evidenced by his ranking within the top 10 for clearances, goal assists, and handballs. This reflects his broader impact on the Dockers’ play, showcasing his vision and ability to contribute to scoring opportunities for his teammates and his skill in distributing the ball effectively under pressure.

Serong’s statistical achievements from the season paint a picture of a player who is central to Fremantle’s midfield operations and instrumental in facilitating the team’s offensive strategies. His comprehensive impact across various facets of the game underscores his value to the Dockers and affirms his status as one of the premier midfielders in the competition.

Caleb Serong’s significant impact on the field for the Fremantle Dockers translated seamlessly into exceptional fantasy football scoring, making him a standout option in both AFLFantasy and SuperCoach formats.

In AFLFantasy, Serong’s impressive average of 108 points per game was bolstered by his consistency and high-scoring capabilities; he notched up 17 tons throughout the season, with six scores surpassing the 120-point mark. A testament to his reliability was his ability to maintain a scoring floor, never dropping below 80 points in any game. This remarkable consistency earned him a place among the elite, ranking 12th for total points scored and 13th for averages overall, highlighting his indispensable value to fantasy football coaches.

SuperCoach further underscored Serong’s fantasy prowess, where he averaged 111.2 points. His performance included 16 tons, with eight going above 120 points, showcasing his potential for high-scoring outputs. Serong’s scoring resilience was evident, with only a single instance falling below the 80-point threshold. His solid record placed him 17th for total points scored and averages across the league, marking him as a premium midfield option for SuperCoach players.

In his 2022 season, he started slowly as he had an interrupted preseason with a knee injury. Eventually, he succumbed to it and missed a few games. Despite this, Serong still elevated his game to some strong new levels. He ended the year ranked inside the top twenty of the league for stoppage clearances, handbells, contested possessions and clearances per game.

The breakout trends for Serong were visible over his entire AFL career, and in 2022, he started to take further steps towards what we have seen he’d become. In that year’s AFL fantasy/DreamTeam perspective, he scored seven, including 112, 113 & a season-high 126. In SuperCoach, he scored eight tons, four above 110, including 117, 119 & 127.

Following a breakout year that saw him ascend to the upper echelons of AFL midfielders, Caleb Serong is poised to elevate his game even further. His impressive performance last season, characterized by dominance in key statistical areas and significant fantasy football scoring, sets the stage for Serong to build on his achievements and continue his upward trajectory.

With a solid foundation of skills, including contested possession winning, clearance work, and impactful scoring, Serong has demonstrated the talent and work ethic necessary to enhance his contributions to the Fremantle Dockers. As he enters the next phase of his career, the anticipation around his potential to become one of the premier midfielders in the league is palpable. Serong’s readiness to take the next step in his game promises exciting prospects for his personal development. It signifies his growing importance to his team’s success and the broader AFL landscape.

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MY TAKE

Caleb Serong enters the fantasy football conversation not just as a strong scorer but as a player with potential areas for growth that could elevate his game even further. His current scoring prowess is commendable, yet the potential for improvement in disposal efficiency, increased impact on the scoreboard, and an uptick in possessions or tackles suggests we’ve yet to see Serong’s ceiling. Additionally, natural progression and development, inherent to young talents in the AFL, promise to boost his fantasy output.

Serong can further emphasize his importance to your team using the Vice Captain loophole. The Dockers’ scheduling, with most games played on early weekends before the round 13 bye, is crucial for fantasy strategy. This allows coaches to capitalize on Serong’s ceiling scoring through the Vice Captain loophole in formats that permit it, offering a strategic advantage in maximizing points.

The round 13 bye itself holds structural significance for fantasy lineups. Fremantle’s positioning in the bye rounds means players from the club, including Serong, become strategically valuable. They provide continuity through the early bye rounds and the subsequent larger batch, helping maintain team performance during these critical periods of the fantasy season.

Despite being a potential target for opposition tags, as seen in round one last year against St Kilda, Serong’s scoring floor has remained solid even when faced with such challenges. Early fixtures may see him encounter tags again, yet his resilience and ability to still contribute value scores highlight his reliability as a fantasy option.

The return of Nat Fyfe to the midfield poses questions about its impact on Serong’s role. However, it’s anticipated that Serong, Hayden Young, and Andy Brayshaw will remain the Dockers’ primary midfield options. Fyfe’s integration will likely see him as a rotational player, suggesting a minimal impact on Serong’s scoring potential.

Interestingly, when Hayden Young transitioned into the midfield, Serong’s averages in AFLFantasy and SuperCoach showed no significant deviation from his year-round performance. This stability underscores Serong’s scoring resilience despite slight team role adjustments.

Given the strategic advantage of the Round 13 bye, fantasy coaches are evaluating the inclusion of Fremantle’s premium midfielders, including Serong, Andy Brayshaw, and Port Adelaide’s Zak Butters and Connor Rozee. Coaches are encouraged to assess and rank these players based on projected scoring and bye-round balance.

This analysis will help determine whether Serong fits as a starting squad member or an upgrade target during the season. His proven performance, captaincy consideration, and the structural benefits of Fremantle’s bye round position him as a compelling consideration for fantasy football teams, offering immediate impact and strategic flexibility.

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DRAFT DECISION

Caleb Serong’s emergence as a key player for the Fremantle Dockers and his fantasy football potential reflect his growing importance and impact in the AFL. His draft ranking as an M1 in AFLFantasy signifies his role as a premier midfield option, capable of delivering consistent, high-scoring performances. This status is a testament to his on-field contributions, particularly in contested possessions, clearances, and his ability to impact the scoreboard. For fantasy coaches strategizing their draft, Serong represents a robust choice to anchor their midfield, offering reliability and the potential for game-changing scores.

However, the depth of midfield talent in AFLFantasy means Serong might be considered an M2 for some teams, particularly if coaches prioritize securing other midfielders with their initial picks. This strategy could see Serong slide slightly in the draft order, not due to any shortfall in his capabilities but because of the midfield’s wealth of options and individual coaches’ tactical approaches.

In SuperCoach, where scoring can often accentuate the impact of midfielders who excel in contests and clearances, Serong is positioned as an M2. This ranking reflects his proven ability to rack up significant points and the competitive nature of midfield selections in SuperCoach drafts. The expectation that he would be gone by the third round indicates the coaches’ high regard for his scoring potential and his role at Fremantle. This also suggests that while Serong is highly valued, the sheer volume of midfield talent across the AFL means that some coaches might secure other options before turning to Serong, depending on their draft strategy and the specific scoring nuances of SuperCoach.

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#30 Most Relevant | Jeremy Sharp

Embark on a journey to discover Jeremy Sharp’s hidden fantasy football potential as he gears up for a promising season with Fremantle. This article delves into Sharp’s unique skill set and the strategic advantages he brings, spotlighting why he could be the secret weapon in your fantasy lineup.

WHY IS HE RELEVANT?

Jeremy Sharp is a versatile outside midfielder known for his significant upside, characterized by his astute decision-making and penetrating kicking ability. Athletically proficient, he possesses both speed and endurance, enhancing his effectiveness on the field. His versatility is a key asset, enabling him to adeptly play in various positions, including on both wings and in half-forward and half-back roles, making him a valuable and adaptable player in any team setup.

He has spent the past four seasons with the Gold Coast Suns, playing 23 AFL-level games in his first three years. However, he faced challenges in making the team last year, which limited his opportunities to showcase his skills at the highest level. Despite this setback, Sharp’s potential remains an interesting aspect for fantasy coaches to consider, especially given his past performances and a move back home to his native Western Australia as he now lines up for the Fremantle Dockers.

Sharp’s best year from a fantasy perspective was in 2021. In AFLFantasy, he averaged 71, while in SuperCoach, his average was 65.4. However, these numbers don’t tell the full story. In that season, Sharp came on as a substitute late in the last quarter in one of the games. If we exclude this game, his averages increase significantly to 79 in AFLFantasy and 73 in SuperCoach, highlighting his potential when given adequate game time.

Sharp’s ability to deliver high-scoring fantasy performances was evident in several games. Notably:

  • In Round 15, he had 20 possessions and 8 marks, scoring 79 in AFLFantasy and 76 in SuperCoach.
  • His standout performance came in Round 18, where he amassed 30 possessions and 10 marks, leading to a career-high 123 in AFLFantasy and his only SuperCoach ton of 115.
  • In Round 19, he garnered 31 possessions, 9 marks, and a goal, resulting in 112 in AFLFantasy and 96 in SuperCoach.
  • Lastly, in Round 21, he recorded 19 possessions and 9 marks, scoring 88 in AFLFantasy and 71 in SuperCoach.

These performances demonstrate Sharp’s capacity for high-scoring games and his ability to impact matches significantly. For fantasy managers, these instances of high scoring are crucial in assessing Sharp’s potential value, especially if he secures a more consistent role in the Gold Coast Suns lineup. His ability to ‘pop’ in certain games, combined with the upward adjustment of his averages when excluding outlier performances, suggests that Sharp possesses an intriguing upside for fantasy football

Sharp had a significant year playing in the VFL, participating in 19 games. During this time, he averaged an impressive 21.3 disposals per game and played a crucial role in leading the Gold Coast Suns to their historic first premiership in the competition. Furthermore, Sharp’s performance was marked by multiple high-scoring games across all fantasy football formats, underlining his potential as a valuable player in fantasy leagues.

Sharp has moved to the Fremantle Dockers in a notable development this offseason. This transfer presents an exciting opportunity for him. If Sharp manages to break into Fremantle’s AFL lineup, he is poised to become not just a popular starting selection for fantasy teams looking for a cash cow, but also a player known for his capability of scoring well at this level.

His pedigree and track record in the AFL and VFL levels, combined with his potential role at Fremantle, make him a player to watch closely in the upcoming season.

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MY TAKE

Jeremy Sharp’s transition to Fremantle as a delisted free agent highlights an increasingly common and successful pathway for players seeking new opportunities in the AFL. Fremantle had been interested in Sharp for multiple years. Still, trade negotiations were complicated due to the higher priorities and the difficulty of trading a player who wasn’t getting regular AFL game time. Despite Gold Coast wanting to retain him, Jeremy had already decided to head to WA. Becoming a delisted free agent became the most straightforward solution for all parties involved.

The success of this pathway is evident in the AFL, with several players thriving at new clubs after being delisted. Notable examples include Mitch Hinge and Ben Keays at Adelaide and Liam Stocker at St Kilda. Their success underscores that a player becoming a delisted free agent often says more about the club they’ve left than the one they’re joining.

Sharp has quickly made a strong impression at Fremantle, particularly in pre-season training. He faces competition for the wing role from experienced wingman James Aish, outside midfielder Nathan O’Driscoll, and potentially Heath Chapman, who has been internally flagged as a wing option. However, Sharp has been leading the pack, excelling in the club’s running and time trials.

Under coach Justin Longmuir, the wing role at Fremantle has been conducive to high fantasy scoring. This was seen with Blake Acres before his move to Carlton and, more recently, with Liam Henry. Last year, Henry, playing in this role, averaged over 80 in both major fantasy formats and notched up multiple tons.

Should Sharp secure this coveted wing position at Fremantle, these precedents suggest he could enjoy similar fantasy success. His early dominance in pre-season training is a promising sign that he could be a valuable asset in fantasy football, offering scoring potential and a fresh start at his new club.

As the AFL pre-season continues, there’s growing optimism surrounding Jeremy Sharp’s prospects at Fremantle, with keen observers of the Dockers’ training sessions indicating that he may have already secured a wing spot. While it’s still early and best-22 decisions are yet to be finalized, the current sentiment is positive about Sharp’s inclusion in the starting lineup.

The Dockers’ fixture this season is particularly favourable for Sharp, both in terms of the opponents and the locations of the games. Notably, they face North Melbourne and West Coast in the opening six rounds, teams that were among the easiest to score against in 2023.

Additionally, match-ups against Adelaide, Western Bulldogs, St Kilda, and Richmond in the first three months present positive opportunities, especially for wing players. The venue lineup is also advantageous, with four home games at Optus Stadium in the first seven weeks and multiple games at Marvel Stadium, known for its roofed environment.

Why does this matter? Simply put, these factors align perfectly with Sharp’s style of play. Both at AFL and VFL levels, Sharp has demonstrated that high tallies of uncontested possessions and marks often translate to strong fantasy scores. The spacious wings at these stadiums, combined with the style of play of these particular opponents, create ideal conditions for outside players like Sharp to maximize their scoring potential.

The bonus is that the Dockers can play throughout the early bye-rounds. If Sharp hits a high score during these rounds, it could offset lower scores from other mid-priced or premium players or compensate for scores impacted by player injuries. This aspect makes Sharp an even more attractive fantasy option early in the season.

The rationale for choosing Jeremy Sharp in the 50 most relevant over other potential cash cows in this price range is clear. Unlike many other options in this range, Sharp has proven performances at the elite level, not just hypothetical potential.

His track record of strong scoring in the VFL and glimpses of high-level performance in the AFL gives him a distinct advantage over other players priced similarly. For fantasy managers seeking value and reliability, Sharp presents as a compelling choice, offering proven capability and a favourable context for fantasy success in the upcoming season.

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DRAFT DECISION

In drafting Jeremy Sharp, my perspective places him firmly in the category of a waiver wire pick or relevant in the later stages, depending on the depth of your league. Sharp’s potential value lies in his ability to be a handy option through the early multi-bye rounds when he’s expected to play weekly. This consistent game time during these crucial rounds could make him a strategic short-term asset for your fantasy team.

However, post-Round 6, the situation may shift. At this point, fantasy coaches should evaluate Sharp’s performance and role within the Dockers. If he has performed well and increased his value, there could be an opportunity to trade him for more promising prospects, leveraging his early-season performance for a more impactful player.

Alternatively, if Sharp hasn’t lived up to expectations or better options are available, delisting him and returning him to the player pool might be the most prudent course of action. This approach to drafting and managing Sharp acknowledges his potential value in the early part of the season while remaining adaptable to changing circumstances as the season progresses.

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#42 Most Relevant | Heath Chapman

Injuries create opportunities, but they also create future value. After missing most of the 2023 season with a shoulder injury, Fremantle’s Heath Chapman provides the fantasy football community with supreme value in our defensive line for 2024.

WHY IS HE RELEVANT?

Heath Chapman is a key player for Fremantle, known for his effectiveness both in aerial contests and when initiating attacks. His role is crucial in generating scoring chances as he skillfully transitions the ball from defence to offence. Chapman stands out as an offensive-minded defender with a keen ability to anticipate and intercept plays. Once he gains possession, he quickly progresses the play and excels in distributing the ball accurately with his footwork.

Despite playing just three games last year, Chapman’s fantasy scoring power was still evident in his opening two matches. He went at 85 & 72 in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam and 90 & 70 in SuperCoach.

In 2022, for AFLFantasy and SuperCoach, Chapman’s statistics showcase some notable performances. His best games in terms of fantasy scores were against Melbourne and North Melbourne. Against Melbourne, he achieved his highest AFLFantasy score of 100, while against North Melbourne, he recorded his best SuperCoach score of 136. Chapman’s performance against St Kilda also stood out, scoring 90 in SuperCoach and 85 in AFL Fantasy.

In AFLFantasy/DreamTeam, alongside his career-high score of 100, he posted six additional scores above 80, including two scores of 95. For SuperCoach, he posted three tons, including the above 136 and an extra three scores 80+. By the season’s closing, he ended with an average of 69.2 in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam and 75.8 in SuperCoach.

These high scores reflect Chapman’s potential as a valuable pick for fantasy teams. His ability to score highly in certain games indicates that he can be a significant contributor in form. Fantasy coaches looking at players for their future teams could consider Chapman, especially considering his reduced price point following his injury-affected season.

Heath Chapman faced significant injury setbacks in 2023. The first was a hamstring injury, which happened at training and was confirmed by fellow defender Luke Ryan on WA radio station 6PR. His second, and much more severe, injury was a shoulder injury during the Derby. It was later identified as requiring shoulder stabilisation surgery. This injury occurred in the early minutes of a game, and despite Chapman playing through the match, scans later revealed serious damage. This injury was severe enough to end his season prematurely.

Nobody likes to see someone injured, but players like Chapman come into the future season with a reduced price point as a presult. This is because either their previous season’s statistics, a key determinant of their initial value, are lower than usual, or the format has awarded an injury discount due to missing many games. Heath’s playing just three games in 2023 has created a situation where he can be picked up at a bargain compared to his shown potential.

Priced at 45 in SuperCoach, 42 in DreamTeam, and 55 in AFLFantasy, he presents strong value compared to his average in the low 60s of 2023. If you’re looking for an upside proven in your defensive line, then Chapman must be considered for your starting squad in 2024.

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MY TAKE

Selecting Heath Chapman in SuperCoach, AFLFantasy, and DreamTeam is a strategic choice that requires careful consideration of his pricing and potential for the upcoming season. It’s crucial to understand that players in Chapman’s price range are not typically reliable as season-long keepers, though it would be a bonus if this occurs. His situation can be compared to Jayden Hunt, who was similarly priced in 2023 and averaged 81 in AFL Fantasy and 78 in SuperCoach over the first 12 weeks. Like Hunt, the key with Chapman is to time your trade to capitalize on the peak of his price increase.

There are three ideal moments to consider trading Chapman. The first opportunity is after Round 6, where you can aim to trade him for a premium defender coming off a bye. Another strategic moment is after Round 10, coinciding with the Dockers’ easier fixture against teams like the Bulldogs, Tigers, Swans, and Saints, which historically offer better scoring matchups for halfbacks. The final window is just before Round 12, right before the bye, targeting a premium defender from teams like the Lions, Giants, Kangaroos, or Swans, with Lachie Whitfield or Harry Sheezel being ideal.

Heath Chapman’s evolving role with the Fremantle Dockers is poised to become more significant in the upcoming season, especially in light of recent team changes. With Brennan Cox and Alex Pearce solidifying their positions as key defensive players and Luke Ryan focusing on intercepting and initiating plays, Chapman’s role is set to undergo a strategic shift.

Chapman, known for his impressive marking and aerial abilities, is expected to fill a critical halfback role alongside Jordan Clark. This becomes increasingly important considering Hayden Young’s transition into the midfield. Chapman’s ability to control the aerial space and contribute to the Dockers’ defensive strategies will be crucial in compensating for Young’s move.

Moreover, Chapman’s progression into his fourth AFL season suggests a maturity and readiness to take on more responsibility within the team’s defensive setup. His enhanced role, combined with the gap left by Young, indicates a potential increase in his scoring opportunities. With more play likely to come through him, Chapman’s impact on the game could be more pronounced in terms of defence and contributing to the team’s transitions into attack.

Chapman’s pricing is similar to Nic Coffield of the Western Bulldogs and Zac Williams from Carlton. Having one or more of these three in your starting squad offers the flexibility to switch to another if needed. However, depending on the format of toy play, selecting all three poses too much risk. But starting with at least one of these players is structurally important as all three have historical scoring that exceeds their current salary output.

The final decision will also depend on the availability of defender cash cows; a higher number of these could reduce the need for lower-middle-priced defenders, regardless of their scoring history. I’m starting Heath in all game formats; all the known variables indicate him as a sensational starting pick.

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DRAFT DECISION

In fantasy drafts, selecting Heath Chapman requires a strategic approach, especially given the hype around him in the salary cap community. Chapman’s potential and role at Fremantle suggest he’ll likely be picked within the top 50 defenders. For a balanced and strategic draft, the ideal position to pick him would be as your D4 (fourth defender), where he offers good value without overcommitting early in the draft.

However, if you’re particularly keen on securing Chapman, you might need to adjust your strategy. Given the competition and interest in him, it could be wise to select him a round or two earlier, positioning him as your D3 (third defender). This move ensures you get him on your team, but it does mean prioritizing him over potentially higher-rated defenders. Therefore, while Chapman is a valuable pick, it’s important to weigh his potential against the overall balance and needs of your team.

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Practice Match Review: Fremantle Vs Port Adelaide

Fremantle and Port Adelaide battled it out at Fremantle Oval on Thursday night in conditions which had sunshine, rain, and the Fremantle Doctor pumping out some serious wind. As always, these factors need to be considered when trying to draw conclusions from players scores.

Andrew Brayshaw

Brayshaw continued where finished last season and looked phenomenal. He had a great build throughout the game and with Fremantle keeping their tight midfield mix he will continue to score. Just an outright jet of a player and certainly one to consider for your round 1 teams.

Caleb Serong

Another staple of the midfield mix, Serong was another who impressed me. However, he couldn’t find as much space as his counterpart during the game. He could be one who jumps out of the gate early with the relatively easy start the Dockers have in 2023, but the competition at his price point is there.

Sean Darcy

No Jackson, no worries. Darcy looks leaner and fitter as he worked the Port Adelaide ruckmen around the ground with 38 hit-outs. Most impressively, he had 8 tackles and 4 marks. If he continues to put up similar numbers to these with Jackson in the team, he could be a sneaky premium Ruck option.

Hayden Young

For those who were unimpressed by Young last week, the game this week didn’t do much to alleviate those concerns. Young struggled to get much ball expect for in the 3rd where he got a lot more involved. I don’t have as much concerns as others though and believe this is just a blip based on conditions, matchups, and team structure. Still one to strongly consider for starting squads.

Nat Fyfe

Fyfe played out of the goal square for the majority of the game and didn’t look out of place. He kicked a goal in each of the first three quarters and showed his aerial abilities. You could do worse for a cheap option in SuperCoach and Dream Team, but there is no midfield time there for him in 2023 unless an injury occurs to one of the core four.

Liam Henry

With wing spots vacant for Fremantle, Henry put his hand up to be in the frame for a round 1 spot. His hard work impressed me as he ran on the outside wing, dropping right back when the ball was switched. Fremantle wings have scored decently in the past so I wouldn’t be crossing his name off quite yet.

Sam Sturt

Another 200k FWD rookie who could see regular games. Sturt has only played 4 games since being picked in the 2018 draft for the Dockers, but could be a sneaky bench option for us. Worked into the game well as a hybrid forward.

Connor Rozee

High TOG, High CBAs, High Scoring. The game from Rozee is what you want to see from someone you hope to break into the top echelon of forwards in fantasy. He showed he deserves to be in the conversation with the other big forwards for 2023.

Zac Butters

Butters was one who struggled to get involved for the Power. He was thrown around the ground quite a lot and didn’t get the CBA mix that you would have hoped for if you were eager to start him. Perhaps eased into the game after his AC joint setbacks last week. He probably fits in as one to monitor as an upgrade candidate through the season.

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Scott Lycett

Port Adelaide were outright bullied in the Ruck through the game and Lycett struggled to perform aside from the last quarter. One to monitor with the continued struggles we are having to pick a second ruck, but alarm bells are certainly there.

Jason Horne-Francis

Impossible to miss with his high socks, Horne-Francis was also used substantially through the Power’s midfield mix and had flashes of quality. No doubts that he will be a premium at some point in the future, but is 2023 the year that happens?

#14 Most Relevant | Andrew Brayshaw

The breakout to the elite scoring tier for Andrew Brayshaw was always a question of when not if. And in 2022, he answered it for us. Now at 23 and stepping into his prime, Brayshaw is primed to deliver yet another strong fantasy AFL season. 

PLAYER PROFILE

Name: Andrew Brayshaw
Age: 23
Club: Fremantle Dockers
Position: Midfield

2022 Highest Score: 
181 Vs St Kilda (AFLFantasy)
189 Vs St Kilda (SuperCoach)

Career Highest Score: 
181 Vs St Kilda | AFLFantasy (2022)
190 Vs Richmond | SuperCoach (2021)

2022 Average: 
112.4 (AFLFantasy)
111.8 (SuperCoach)

SuperCoach Price: $615,600
AFLFantasy Price: $995,000
AFLDreamTeam Price: $1,020,000

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WHY IS HE RELEVANT?

That was some season from Andrew Brayshaw. He elevated himself from a good AFL midfielder to the upper elite echelon. He averaged career-high disposals while finishing fifth in the AFL for uncontested possessions, 8th for disposals, 10th for effective disposals and 10th for tackles. To round out this phenomenal season, he was awarded selection in the All-Australian team, won the club’s best & fairest and snagged the AFL PA’s MVP award.

His AFLFantasy/DreamTeam season was an absolute banger. He scored thirteen tons across the season; nine went over 120, and six were above 130. It featured 141, 144 & 181 as his three highest scores. Alongside this high volume and frequency of tons was a further four scores between 90-99, and all year his scoring dipped below 80 in just two matches. By the conclusion of the 2022 season, he had the third-highest average going at 112.3 and was ranked number one for points! A superb achievement.

Over in SuperCoach, he also scored thirteen tons over the seasons, eight of which were above 120. In six of those, he went 130+, and he gave us his second-highest-ever SuperCoach score in round two against the Saints by scoring 189. Alongside these thirteen tons were six additional scores between 93-96. That’s 86% of his game last year, where he scored 93 or higher! Last year he had just two scores below 80, with his lowest a 77. By the end of the year, his average of 111.8 has him ranked thirteenth by average across the game, and tenth for points

2022 isn’t just an isolated one good season, he’s been building his scoring over the past three seasons, and in 2021 he gave you his first season where he averaged 100+ across all formats. During the 2021 season, he scored thirteen AFLFantasy/DreamTeam tons; five were above 120 and two higher than 135, including his best of 156. In addition, he had three more scores between 90-99. That’s 80% of his 90 or above scores last year. From a scoring basement, he had three scores under 70. All of these were when he copped a heavy tag. Closing out the season, he averaged 104.2

For SuperCoach, he scored twelve tons, with a lowest of 109 and a top score of 190. He had seven tons over 120, four additional 90-99 and just three scores beneath 70. His 107 is ranked nineteenth for all midfielders 

When a guy comes off the back of a 110+ average across the formats, it’s hard to expect more growth; if anything, you’re hoping they can back it up. But with Brayshaw, the belief of an increase from 111 in SuperCoach and 112 in AFLFantasy last year does have merit. When you look at his scoring trend over 2020-2022 and then consider how he scores, the upside is potentially huge!

Last year he had just eight games where he had 30+ possessions. He had just two games with more than six marks and seven with eight or more marks. The crazy thing is when he puts it together, you get those monster ceiling games, as you saw against St Kilda in round two, where he scored over 180 across the formats. If he can do that a few times a year, he’ll elevate himself to the tiers of scoring that only Tom Mitchell, Dane Swan and Tom Rockliff have been able to tread across formats.

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MY TAKE

You don’t end up as the top-scoring prospect in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam and top ten in SuperCoach and not become someone you consider seriously in your starting squad. If you haven’t even looked at starting with Andrew Brayshaw, you’re missing a trick. Yes, he’s expensive, but that’s because he’s scored at this level before! He’s still got a little bit of natural growth in him. In the first thirteen games of the season, he averaged 118 in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam and 114.6 in SuperCoach; that’s 3-5 points per game of upside.

When you drill into the scoring numbers of Brayshaw, there is an interesting little trend. Over his AFLFantasy/DreamTeam career, he hasn’t scored more than three consecutive tons. While in SuperCoach, he has yet to do more than three in a row over his past two seasons. The thing about a stats line like this is that you can view it in two lights. Firstly, for him to still go at such a high-scoring clip and do it with a low consecutive nature of tons is only a good thing. Remember that history isn’t always an indicator of the future. Maybe the big run of tons is coming this year. The flip side is that without historical data of being runs of tons, he’ll always feel like he gives you a window of cheaper availability. The truth is probably somewhere in the middle.

Without question, the tag is coming to Brayshaw. We saw that happen in numerous games across 2022. And it’ll happen again in 2023. What’s pleasing for his current & future owners is he’s already shown signs of using his workrate and other scoring avenues to ensure his basement scores aren’t disasters. Whenever a player is tagged, we see a scoring blip, but with Andrew, these have yet to be in the 50s or 60s. Rather, the high 70s is more than tolerable when you know the next week they’ve got the ceiling capacity to go 170! Currently, at training, he’s getting tagged in every match simulation by James Aish. This isn’t just for Andrew’s benefit, as Aish did a few negating roles last year and seems destined to do it again. It’s good training and learning for James. 

If you’re starting with Andrew, you’re comfortable placing the vice-captaincy or captaincy on him early in the year. If your not, he’s then just an upgrade target. He must be viewed as such because you can only afford a small number of options in his price range in your starting squad. And if they’re not VC/C candidates, why are you spending so much coin?

The positive news for coaches is that Brayshaw and Fremantle have a remarkable early fixture. They play Saints (away), North (home), Eagles (home), Crows (away), Suns (home) and lastly, Dogs (home). That’s as good a run as coaches could expect. It is even more exciting because St Kilda is one of Brayshaw’s favourite teams to score against. In his last three matches against them, he’s averaged 142.6 in AFLFantasty/DreamTeam and 144.3 in SuperCoach!

One thing to keep in mind, though, is the tag. Late last year, Marcus Windhager showed his ability to play the role well, and under Ross Lyon at both St Kilda & Fremantle, he’s shown a desire to use a tagger.

Even if you don’t start with Brayshaw, you’ll keep a close eye on him, especially after his round 12 byes. He could be the perfect player to run through the following three weeks of multi-byes. He’ll play Richmond, GWS & Essendon during that time as a reference point. I’m not planning on starting him, but I want to have him in my team coming out of the byes.

DRAFT DECISION

Where Andrew Brayshaw goes off draft boards will be based on two variables on draft day, the format you use & how desperate the community is to lock away an F1. In AFLFantasy/DreamTeam, he’s in the mix to be selected in the first round and will only drift a little beyond the first few selections of round two, if at all. While in SuperCoach, he’s an M2 selection and will likely go in the late second – early third portion of the draft. 

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#23 Most Relevant | Nat Fyfe

For years Nat Fyfe has been one of the best players in the AFL. Lately, his body has dominated the headlines more than his football. As we enter the 2023 fantasy football season, the gang at Champion Data has given us a potential gift. They’ve awarded Fyfe DPP. As a MID/FWD, he could be one of the best starting squad options. 

PLAYER PROFILE

Name: Nat Fyfe
Age: 31
Club: Fremantle Dockers
Position: Midfield/Forward

2022 Highest Score: 
89 Vs St Kilda(AFLFantasy)
96 Vs St Kilda (SuperCoach)

Career Highest Score: 
150 Vs Adelaide | AFLFantasy (2015)
171 Vs Carlton | SuperCoach (2014)

2022 Average: 
56.1 (AFLFantasy)
63.3 (SuperCoach)

SuperCoach Price: $313,600
AFLFantasy Price: $681,000
AFLDreamTeam Price: $458,700

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WHY IS HE RELEVANT?

For over a decade, Nat Fyfe has been one of the best AFL players and a staple of our fantasy football sides. With multiple Brownlow Medals, numerous club best and fairest wins and broader AFL media acclaim, there is no doubt then when Nat is fit and healthy, at full flight, he’s magnificent to watch and enjoyable to own in fantasy footy.

The 2022 season will go down as one of Nat’s most frustrating seasons. An injury interrupted preseason left him managing a back issue that required some surgery. After a few setbacks, he managed to get back into the side; however, a series of hamstring-related issues brought further disruption and cost him a spot in the Fremantle finals campgain.

It took til round thirteen for Fyfe to make his first appearance in the season. Of. the seven games he managed to play, he averaged 56.1 in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam, and for SuperCoach, he averaged 63.2. He had just one match that even vaguely resembled what he’s historically been capable of doing. In round seventeen, he scored 89 in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam and 96 in SuperCoach. That came from 21 possessions, six marks and three goals.

This scoring is well below what he achieved in 2021. From his fifteen games, he averaged 100.4 in SuperCoach, which featured eight tons, five of which were above 120, and his scoring fell below 90 in just five games. In addition, Fyfe averaged 84.4 in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam, which featured five tons and five additional scores of 80+.

Few players could match his scoring capacity from 2011-2020 across all formats, especially in SuperCoach. Over that decade, he regularly averaged between 95-105 in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam, and in SuperCoach, he had nine seasons averaging 100+, including three 119+.

Fyfe’s scoring power over the last 10+ seasons cannot be ignored. And while injury-interrupted seasons like last year can hurt, the benefit for the fantasy community is the player will receive a pricing discount, and they can become undeniable value. He’s currently priced at an average of 57 in SuperCoach, 50 in AFLDreamTeam and 77 in AFLFantasy. Based on his historical capacity, he’s got anywhere from 25-70 points per game of value!

Throw in the fact that he’s not just midfield eligible. Champion Data had awarded him MID/FWD status after playing heavy forward minutes after returning from injury last year. So you now have a potentially elite scorer that could become a season-long premium in the forward lines at an insanely good price. If Fyfe has yet to be considered this preseason, you’ve been doing it wrong!

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MY TAKE

Nat Fyfe is of undeniable value IF he plays in the role through the midfield that saw him win two Brownlow Medals. However, the news from the club with match simulations is that he’s playing as a forward. You can look at that in two lights. Firstly, this will be his new role, and any midfield opportunities through the Dockers midfield will be minimal. While this is a possibility, an alternate reality could eventuate.

Preseason club match simulations, practice matches and community series games mean nothing to players of Fyfe’s experience and age. These games are much more about getting them through from a fitness perspective. Nat’s a game champion, and Fremantle is fully aware of what he can do through the midfield. So why not spend the preseason enhancing his forward craft and protecting his health through the preseason by developing his forward craft?

Fyfe will play forward for chunks of the season, as he should. He’s a difficult matchup for any defender, and his power and aerial strength will add some experience to arguably the line the Dockers are the most vulnerable. However, if Fremantle is serious about not just making finals, they must play him through the midfield for more than just a few rotations. He is still one of the most dynamic and damaging midfielders in the AFL when at full health. Am I saying Nat will play as a permanent midfielder? Certainly not! But the narrative that when the season proper comes around that Fyfe won’t be given a decent MID/FWD split is false.

Normally a player with a recent injury history comparable to Fyfe, I’d be driving home the point that you start them or fade them. And as true as that might be with Nat, the starting price mitigates any risk. He’s got the scoring history to certainly be a player capable of turning into a season-long hold as a keeper, but he doesn’t have to be that in some formats. As a reference in SuperCoach, he’s priced cheaper than preseason popular stepping-stone midfielders in Dom Sheed & Jacob Hopper. Based on his scoring potential, he’s got way more scoring potential than them both.

If this were an AFLFantasy only 50 most relevant, he wouldn’t even make the 50, let alone be this high. Priced at an average of the high 70s, your only selecting him if you were confident he’s returning to a 90+ average. While he has the potential to do it, he’ll likely need a heavy midfield role.

In SuperCoach & DreamTeam, he’s very relevant, given he’s got the potential to average double what he’s priced at. With the volume of trades we have in these formats, you can look at Fyfe not just as a starting squad stepping stone but as an in-season trade, whether that be to use as one of your correctional trades in the opening few weeks. Or as a fixture/role runner for a month or two.

Most club watchers of the Dockers believe they’ll have a narrow rotation of midfielders. Andrew Brayshaw, Caleb Serong, Will Brodie and Jaeger O’Meara will be the main four, with potential cameos from Aish, Erasmus or Johnson if they get into the 22. It’s not the most experienced midfield; all it can take is one injury to one of the main four, and Fyfe HAS to become a lead midfielder rather than a supporting one. While you don’t wish injuries on anyone, he is one variable change away from sliding back into that first midfield grouping.

All a player with his injury history can do is get through the preseason unscathed; if he does, he still needs to be considered. He’s not currently in my side, but that doesn’t mean I’ll be ruling him out of my side considerations in 2023. In SuperCoach especially, I’ll be watching his role closely. If the chips fall his way, he is one of only a few known forward options in SuperCoach who could outscore most people’s #1 scoring candidate in Josh Dunkley.

DRAFT DECISION

Players with high fantasy legacy possess name appeal in coaches eyes, and Nat Fyfe’s name carries some significant weight. So much has been made of this pre-season about how good the top-end forward is, but then how quickly the division depth falls away. With this and his scoring potential, his ‘brand’ will become a heavy reason coaches want to draft him. I see him heading off draft boards as an F3 in SuperCoach and a positional spot later as an F4 in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam scoring formats.

At that point of the draft, there is no risk on him, and If you’re worried about injuries, then protect that selection of Fyfe by drafting deeper in the forward lines. Always protect each pick with the subsequent picks.

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#34 Most Relevant | Caleb Serong

Since he walked into the AFL, the fantasy community has been waiting for the premium season of Caleb Serong. He’s shown as glimpses over the past few seasons, is 2023 the year he puts it all together? 

PLAYER PROFILE

Name: Caleb Serong
Age: 21
Club: Fremantle Dockers
Position: Midfield

2022 Highest Score: 
126 Vs Gold Coast (AFLFantasy)
128 Vs Collingwood (SuperCoach)

Career Highest Score: 
135 Vs West Coast | AFLFantasy (2021)
143 Vs North Melbourne | SuperCoach (2021)

2022 Average: 
87.7 (AFLFantasy)
90.6 (SuperCoach)

SuperCoach Price: $498,800
AFLFantasy Price: $777,000
AFLDreamTeam Price: $796,100

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WHY IS HE RELEVANT?

Over the past few seasons, the Fremantle Dockers have drafted incredibly well and secured some elite high-end talent. One of those is midfielder Caleb Serong. Ever since he broke into the side in 2020, the eventual rising star winner has shown glimpses of his potential in numerous seasons.

His 2022 season started slowly as he had an interrupted preseason with a knee injury. Eventually, he succumbed to it and missed a few games. Despite this, Serong still elevated his game to some strong new levels. He ended the year ranked inside the top twenty of the league for stoppage clearances, handbells, contested possessions and clearances per game.

From an AFLFantasy/DreamTeam perspective, he scored seven, including 112, 113 & a season-high 126. He had seven games where he scored below 80, but four came in his first five games where he was working his way through his injury niggle. In SuperCoach, he scored eight tons, four above 110, including 117, 119 & 127. He also dipped seven times under 80, but like in AFLFantasy, four were in the opening five weeks. While not ideal, having this many sub-80 scores is quite common for younger players. The potential upside here is that if he can lift his scoring basement, let alone pop his ceiling frequency, he can reach a triple-digit average.

Whenever you’re looking at a breakout candidate like Serong, you’re looking for pockets of scoring to provide you confidence that they can score like a premium. He had six weeks last year between rounds 8-13, averaging 102.5 in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam and 109.3 in SuperCoach. If he can maintain scoring like that for the 2023 season, he’ll not just push the line of a top-ten midfielder, but it could be a competition-winning pick.

For the two previous seasons, in 2020 and 2021, we saw more glimpses of his scoring pedigree. He averaged 82.8 in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam and scored five tons. In SuperCoach, he averaged 92.3 and scored seven tons. However, his final three games of the season caught the fantasy community’s attention. He scored 118, 117, & 116 in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam and 115, 135, and 103 in SuperCoach.
He’s shown potential in glimpses over multiple stretches of games over multiple seasons. However, the opportunity for Serong to elevate himself to premium midfield status is ahead of him, and he’s a strong chance to become one.

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MY TAKE

After that strong scoring trio of tons to end the 2021 season, Caleb Serong entered 2022 with plenty of expectation that he would finally break out. Although we saw pockets of it as the season went on, his poor start due to the knee complaint ruined the hype surrounding him. When a player is hyped in the community and they ‘fail’, it creates a smell on them that’s hard to shake. The positive for prospective owners is that, arguably, Serong is better placed now than he was twelve months ago to transition into premium midfield averages.

In the offseason, the Dockers had three significant changes in their midfield. First, the retirement of David Mundy. Even in his last season, he attended 65% of centre bounces of the club. Second is the departure of wingmen Blake Acres to Carlton. And lastly, the addition of Jaeger O’Meara from Hawthorn. But do these movements affect the role or scoring forecast for Serong?

Ultimately, we’ll get these answers as the preseason continues, but my immediate response is that the three changes don’t negatively impact him. Earlier in the article, we highlighted that his statistical strength is around when contested footy and in clearances. Fremantle will not push him out to a wing. Their offensive and defensive midfield look stronger with him at centre bounces and stoppages around the ground.

One of the most obvious reasons to overlook Serong is the high volume of comparably priced options. Luke Davies-Uniacke, Tom Green, Adam Cerra, Jai Newcombe and Chad Warner are within a few grand of his price point. Even former #1 draft pick Lachie Whitfield is in that pricing space. Looking at all these names, you can build a compelling case for why you should select them. All are capable of elevating themselves to the next level. In the cases of Green, Cerra & Newcombe, it’s about opportunity & responsibility in the midfield. For Whitfield, it’s about the drive to prove himself as one of the best players in the league under the new coach. While for LDU & Warner, it’s the evolution of being their sides bright young stars and becoming the #1 option.

What’s the upside narrative for Serong? It’s about the early fixture for the Dockers. Over the opening six weeks of the season, they play St Kilda (A), North Melbourne (H), West Coat (H), Adelaide (A), Gold Coast (H) and Western Bulldogs (H). That runs both in teams, and the venue cannot get much tastier.

If you play AFLFantasy, Serong needs to be genuinely considered. The key will be to set scoring benchmarks over the first two-three weeks. If he fails to deliver, pivot quickly to the flying stepping stone. If he nails it, he does have the capacity to transform into your M8 by the conclusion of the season. Remember, often, the first 4-6 trades you make in this format are correctional moves.

In SuperCoach, he does get hurt by his disposal efficiency. The upside is that it means he’ll never get tagged. But any points lost through poor ball use are offset by his high-quality contested ball numbers. So it’ll create a strong scoring bump if he can tidy up his efficiency even by 5%.

With more trades in DreamTeam and SuperCoach than ever before, coaches can afford to attack the game differently. So while in previous eras, you needed to view Serong as a season-long hold. But I don’t believe you have to anymore. He can still be someone that is used as a premium runner. So when he scores like a premium for six weeks, you pocket the $100k+ you’ve saved instead of starting one at his spot. You can then reinvest those dollars on top of another player. Then, after your stretch of games, you can sideways trade to a fallen premium in the midfield.

There isn’t the preseason hype around Serong, but one preseason match is all it takes for that to change.

DRAFT DECISION

Based on his averages from last year, he’s ranked as the 45th-best midfielder in SuperCoach and the 44th-best in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam. On the draft day, that’d place Caleb Serong at M5. But I’d be shocked to see him be available at that point of the draft. Given his apparent upside, M4 will be a more normative ADP for him.

The beauty of a draft is that everyone values players differently. I can see someone reaching for him at M3 in some leagues because they want to own him. And while it’s a touch early, sometimes you need to reach 10-15 spots earlier to secure the player you want.

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#35 Most Relevant | Hayden Young

It’s only a matter of time before Hayden Young becomes one of the most damaging defenders in the AFL. Is 2023 the year we see Hayden as a top-tier fantasy defender? He’s incredibly relevant for the coming year and will be for many more seasons. 

PLAYER PROFILE

Name: Hayden Young
Age: 21
Club: Fremantle Dockers
Position: Defender

2022 Highest Score: 
132 Vs Richmond (AFLFantasy)
142 Vs Hawthorn (SuperCoach)

Career Highest Score: 
132 Vs Richmond | AFLFantasy (2022)
142 Vs Hawthorn | SuperCoach (2022)

2022 Average: 
87.6 (AFLFantasy)
92.3 (SuperCoach)

SuperCoach Price: $508,200
AFLFantasy Price: $776,000
AFLDreamTeam Price: $795,200

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WHY IS HE RELEVANT?

The 2019 AFL draft looks like becoming a fine draft for the Fremantle Football club. The club had three consecutive top-ten picks and secured Caleb Serong, Liam Henry and Hayden Young. The trio’s skills complement each other and should all be a key pillar in the current Dockers resurgence up the ladder. Young is elite as an interceptor and by delivering the ball by foot. Whether it be opening up the game with a kick on the 45 or delivering a 55+ metre rocket down the wings of Optus Stadium. Hayden is an elite footballer, and he’s only getting better!

2022 was a breakout season for Hayden and his Dockers. After battling numerous injuries in his first two seasons, he was able to play twenty matches this year. He would’ve played every game but missed multiple matches with covid. Last year he averaged 23 possessions, seven marks and two tackles per game.

From an AFLFantasy/DreamTeam perspective, he averaged 87.6 across the season. That places him as the sixteenth-best and most expensive defender. He scored three tons last year, including his career-high score of 132. To go with this ceiling is his low ratio of sub-80 scores. Last year he scored under 80 just four times and below 75 twice.

For SuperCoach, he scored five tons, three of which were over 120, including 139 & 142. Like in AFLFantasy, his ability to hold a high-scoring floor for a third-year player is exceptional, with only four scores below 80 all year.

Young’s scoring already has him on the verge of premium defensive status, but last year there was a run of games where he scored at the levels that would see him score comparable to the top ten defenders already. Between rounds 3-20 in AFLFantasy, his scoring dipped below 80 in just one match. He scored his two biggest tons of the season, 119 & 132, averaging 92.7. In SuperCoach, between rounds 8-15, he averaged 97 for seven weeks & his lowest score was 80.

It’s interesting to note that in both of the Fremantle finals last year, he scored 120 + 105 in SuperCoach and 122 + 98 in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam. It doesn’t count, but what it does tell us when the footy is hot, and the stakes are high, Hayden Young has no problem stepping into the moment.

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MY TAKE

Whatever you’ve heard, don’t fall for the notion that Hayden Young is injury prone. Firstly, he played 20 of 22 games this year. And had it not been for covid and isolation protocols, he would’ve played the full season. The two seasons prior, he suffered a serious ankle injury that required season-ending surgery. He did nothing wrong but felt the full impact of a contest on top of him. The other he battled with a hamstring issue. Has he had some bad luck? Absolutely! But no, he’s not injury prone.

So, where can the scoring improvement come from for Young? Thankfully, in multiple areas. However, one of the most obvious is his taking a greater share of kick-in duties. Earlier in the article, we highlighted how clean and proficient his kicking is. However, when it came to bringing the ball back into play from behind, Young only got that opportunity 24 times. He was ranked third at the club in this stat. The second was Brennan Cox, with 48. And coming in first with the monopoly share is Luke Ryan with 136. Even by picking up a further kick-in per game and holding his 2022 average, he’d average enough to be considered a premium defender. Imagine what could happen if he got a more level share.

With Young, there are no tag concerns. If any Fremantle player is getting tagged, it’s Andrew Brayshaw. And then, beyond that, it’s likely Jordan Clark will stop the Dockers outside run.

There are a few key questions you need to ask yourself. And how you answer them will determine which pricier defenders you should select. Firstly, what role do you believe he’ll average? Second, what do you believe a defender will need to average to be considered a premium? Lastly, is this a player you’d be happy with in your ideal completed side at the end of the year? You’ll see if Young is in the mix for you based on how you’ve answered those questions.

Could Young’s scoring regress rather than increase? Of course. However, retention of his current average would be more likely than a regression. While we always want the best possible scorers in our line, sometimes close enough is good enough. For example, the gap between the sixth-best defender to the tenth-best in SuperCoach is five points per game and less than two points in AFLFantasy. The average gap between the tenth and the fifteenth is 3.5 points per game in SuperCoach and two in AFLFantasy. So even if Hayden doesn’t become a ‘top 10,’ he could still be enough, given the money you could save by selecting him and reinvesting that cash on top of another player.

DRAFT DECISION

On draft day, some coaches use their own curated draft rankings. Others draft using other content creators rankings, like from the Draft Doctors or us. And some use the previous year’s averages as the rankings guide. Whichever method you use, when it comes to Hayden Young, all roads will lead to him being selected as a D2.

Personally, I’d be happy to take him it D1 if it means I can go heavy on the MID or FWD line selections.

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