Mid-January, UltimateFooty always adds some additional dual positions players into the draft game on top of those already allocated for SuperCoach, AFLFantasy & DreamTeam. We’ll officially announce the positions UltimateFooty will add to the game in the coming days. But, for now, here are some of the players I’d love to see gain DPP.
Jaidyn Stephenson – ADD CENTRE
The addition of a centre status is usually one of the least helpful in bumping a player’s draft rankings up. But for Jaidyn Stephenson, it’s certainly a valid gain with Stephenson spending his share of time across the wings for North Melbourne. Of course, his relevance is as a forward, but the DPP addition will add some squad versatility.
Jordan Dawson – ADD CENTRE
I admit that I was surprised he didn’t have DPP already. He had a split role across the season. Pre bye he was playing almost exclusively as a rebounder out of the Swans defensive 50. Post by, he was heavily visible across the wing. My only slight hesitation in advocating for this DPP gain is if he plays off the half-forward for the Crows, it will restrict him from gaining the more valuable DPP.
Brad Hill – ADD CENTRE
Brad Hill has picked up some draft relevance as a back as an Eternally a wingman. But in reality, he’s a wingman. So again, it won’t add an increase to his draft ranks, but it might just save some coaches with some squad flexibility, especially in those that the player pool is deactivated.
Patrick Dangerfield – ADD FORWARD
It’sIt’s been a long time since UltimateFooty has awarded a big name in these start of season additions. In 2022 they’ve got the opportunity to add some excitement and to have clear, justifiable data to make the moves. Patrick Dangerfield leaps off the page as an obvious forward inclusion. When Champion Data allocated the positions in December, many were shocked to see the Brownlow Medalist as a Centre only.
Nat Fyfe – ADD FORWARD
Name alone; if Nat Fyfe picked up DPP his season, it would make many coaches super keen on selecting him in 2022. And depending on the format, you play he could well be one of the more relevant additions for the year. The Dockers skipper spent an ever-increasing amount of time forward as his young teammates started to take over the responsibility of the midfield.
While not the most damaging set shot at goal, Fyfe is an imposing forward presence and is as challenging to match up against inside forward 50 as at centre stoppage. The departure of Adam Cerra to Cartlon might even see him move back more into the midfield. However, the biggest obstacle to selecting him is getting him back to full fitness after another injury setback in the offseason. We’llWe’ll discuss that more in the preseason, especially if UltimateFooty award the status.
Rowan Marshall – ADD FORWARD
With Paddy Ryder missing multiple games last year that Rowan Marshall played, it didn’t shock me if he lost DPP. But I think in the totality of the season, Marshall spent enough time starting and then playing inside forward 50 to retain his R/F DPP. So if Ryder misses large chunks of this coming season, too, it could be Marshall that pushes towards that #1 ranking forward by seasons end. His upside is enormous.
Lachie Hunter – ADD FORWARD
Selecting Bulldogs players always feels like a risk. Luke Beveridge is long known for his ability to chop and change a player’s role weekly and potentially every quarter. In 2021 it was Lachie Hunter’sHunter’s turn to experience the positional roundabout. For the better part of the year, he played at centre bounces off the half-forward flank and then pushed up onto his preferred wing role. If the proposed MID/FWD status lands and the Bulldogs settle him back onto the wing, he looms as a locked 90+ forward.
Jack Billings – ADD FORWARD
Despite it not being Jack Billings’ best season, he started to show off his damaging highlights. Billings is an excellent field kick, and when playing across half-forward, the combination of solid footy IQ and skill makes him an outstanding player.
If allocated MID/FWD, he might not regain top 10 status among forwards, but he’ll undoubtedly skyrocket up draft format selection boards if he does.
Jason Horne-Francis – ADD FORWARD
It’sIt’s possibly an overreach to say “mistake” but I think the current single status allocation of Jason Horne-Francis as a midfielder is a missed opportunity. If you watched any of his SANFL games last season, he was playing a relatively even split between time as a midfielder and forward. In single-season leagues, allocating forward status to start the year would do nothing.
In keeper leagues, it might just be the difference-maker for coaches unsure about whether to draft him or Nick Daicos at the first pick of the new draftees. If it’s not allocated here, look for it at either the end of round three or six allocations. David Noble has already said the “JHF” would play a heavy MID/FWD split.
Harry Schoenberg – ADD FORWARD
For some, this might be a stretch, but over the totality of the season, Harry Schoenberg had a heavy forward to midfield split. It was only over the final few games that his midfield minutes increased significantly. Heading into the infamous third-year breakout, the addition of forward status could see him be a contender for the top 25 ranks in some coaches eyes. An average of 84 in the final five games of 2021 showed promising scoring signs.
Josh Daicos – ADD FORWARD
Two seasons ago, Josh Daicos was looming as one of the breakout forward candidates in UltimateFooty. However, due to multiple injuries and frequent positional changes, Josh has found himself off plenty of fantasy footy radars. In the games he did play last year, he put his mercurial surname into good use inside forward 50. Regaining forward status should bring him back into view for coaches.
With the AFL draft completed the fantasy, community starts to turn it’s attention to the coming season. For AFLFantasy, SuperCoach & DreamTeam players, it’s the final step before the 2022 positions get revealed from Champion Data. Before the official announcement drops in the next few days, I thought I’d share some possible 2022 Fantasy Footy position changes.
In 2021 Jack Ziebell was one of the breakout midprice forwards who became one of the season’s best buys. This addition of the Kangaroo skipper into our backlines should come as no surprise. He, along with his teammate listed below, dominated the defensive 50 possessions for North Melbourne. So the only question fantasy coaches will be pondering is will he be worth investing in at peak price in 2022?
Aaron Hall
Like his teammate above, Aaron Hall became one of those core ingredients to success in 2021. If you didn’t have Hall in your forward stocks, chances are you didn’t have a strong season. With his football revival coming as a running half-back, giving hall defensive status will be one of the easiest decisions Champion Data will ever make. But, more importantly, is can he follow the season up? Regardless, Hall looks like a fascinating player to discuss during the preseason.
Nick Hind
The trend of 2021 forward listed players getting defensive status continues with Nick Hind. Numerous superlatives were used last season to the Bombers list management team for identifying him as a bargain price replacement for Adam Saad. Equally, coaches who jumped on Hind early had strong starts to the season. The ‘run and carry’ defender
Jarman Impey
In all honesty, it could’ve been CNTRL-C, CNTRL V from above when it comes to the reason why Jarman Impey will pick up defensive status. Like the names above, he had a clearly defined role change last year. With the absence of James Sicily, he became the primary ball user of the Hawks D50 before his season ending injury. He’s not salary cap format relevant next year, but for drafts, he’ll be someone worth keeping an eye on in the middle of the draft.
Braeden Campbell
Heading into his second season, it’s rare a player becomes fantasy relevant. Where talking about players like Nat Fyfe, Jackson Macrae and Clayton Oliver that became genuine premiums in year #2, for Braeden Campbell, he’ll move from his MID/FWD status of 2021 to a likely pure defender. Last year, he played as a small-medium rebounding defender and should easily allocate status for Champion Data.
Bailey Dale
Luke Beveridge has done it again. Two seasons ago, he reinvented Caleb Daniel as the ‘quarterback defender for the Dogs. Now, Bailey Dale has transitioned from a dynamic forward that struggled to make the best 22 to becoming a dominant rebounding defender. Daniel & Dale’s skills complete each other perfectly and continue to cause headaches for opposition forward coaches. Bailey’s a genuine top 10 defender candidate moving into next season.
Chayce Jones
Of all the players referenced so far, Chayce Jones probably has minor fantasy relevance. However, the positional allocation to defensive status is a warranted one. The former first-round pick has reinvented himself as a hard-nosed pressure defender. In addition to his high endurance capacity and team-first mindset, Jones is also a solid user of the ball by foot. If he can jag some kick in responsibilities off Wayne Milera or Brodie Smith, he might pop a little as a late-round draft pick up.
Others who should gain: James Stewart, Jy Farrar, Miles Bergman, Tom Atkins, Jayden Hunt & Jayden Laverde
The breakout was complete for Callum Mills. He transitioned beautifully into a dyanmic cenntre bounce midfielder. No chance he retain his defensive status.
Rory Laird
Played pure midfield, lock it up. Nothing more to say! Sadly we lose this long term defensive staple to the midfield.
James Harmes
The Melbourne Demon midfield stopper. James Harmes enjoyed his season of fantasy relevance in the sun. But as a midfielder only, it’s back to drafts and daily fantasy.
Jack Crisp
I’m still 50/50 on this, but I think there is sufficient data that Jack Crisp needs to be a midfielder only in 2022. He attended a high volume of centre bounces, and despite increasing his rebound 50 counts, it was coming from a defensive 50 function. Instead, it was him using his endurance weapon to push into the backline become the rebounder. This was seen often when Brayden Maynard was forced to play a highly lockdown focussed d50 role.
Kyle Langford
Last season Essendon’s midfield stocks were smashed with injuries. As a result, Kyle Langford thrived (amongst others) with the additional midfield responsibility. As a result, he should be a MID only option. Sadly, it means beyond draft and daily fantasy formats, he’s not a viable option.
Harry Schoenberg
Maybe a controversial one, and I know for my keeper leagues, I hope I’m wrong. But Harry Schoenberg was electric for the Crows as a midfielder last year. A quick scroll back through the centre bounce attendances over the season shows that ‘Shonnie’ became a core member of the Adelaide midfield. When he wasn’t playing at centre bounce, he was playing as a wingman. So again, I hope I’m wrong, but I think he’s a pure midfielder in 2022.
By name alone, the probable MID/FWD status of Nat Fyfe next season would make many coaches super keen on selecting him in 2022. And depending on the format, you play he could well be one of the more relevant additions for the year. The Dockers skipper spent an ever increasing amount of time forward as his young teammates started to take over the responsibility of the midfield. While not the most damaging set shot at goal, Fyfe is an imposing forward presence and is as challenging to match up against inside forward 50 as at centre stoppage. The departure of Adam Cerra to Cartlon might even see him move back more into the midfield. However, the biggest obstacle to selecting him is getting him back to full fitness after another injury setback in the offseason. We’ll discuss that more in the preseason.
Jack Billings
Over the past few seasons, Jack Billings has gone from draft relevant forward to top 10 forward across formats to an irrelevant midfield only wingman. Despite it not being Jack’s best season, he did start to get back towards showing off his damaging highlights. Billings is an excellent field kick, and when playing across half-forward, the combination of solid footy IQ and skill makes him a very good player. As a potential MID/FWD next year, he might not regain top 10 status among forwards, but he’ll undoubtedly skyrocket up draft format selection boards if he does.
Lachie Hunter
Selecting Bulldogs players always feels like a risk. Luke Beveridge is long known for his ability to chop and change a player’s role weekly and potentially every quarter. In 2021 it was Lachie Hunter’s turn to experience the positional roundabout. For the better part of the year, he played at centre bounces off the half-forward flank and then pushed up onto his preferred wing role. If the proposed MID/FWD status lands and the Bulldogs settle him back onto the wing, he looms as a locked 90+ forward across the formats.
Tim Taranto
Ask any Tim Taranto owner over the final six games. Where did he play to end the season? Freaking forward! And didn’t his scoring show it. Undoubtedly, the percentage of field position time to him gaining or missing will be razor-thin. I think due to such a heavy forward role late, plus some in-season game management, he’s done just enough. But it’ll be tight.
Sam Berry
The rebuilding Crows got plenty of games into Sam Berry in 2021. A staple of his game was his defensive workrate and solid defensive pressure on the opposition ball carrier. As a junior, Berry was a strongly contested midfielder, but with the Crows, he’s developing his game with minimal midfield time and substantial forward presence. It will result in him being a forward in this coming season.
Tim English
For the Western Bulldogs, they changed up the ruck and forward structures this year. Instead of Tim English leading the ruck division, he became the second fiddle to Stefan Marti, Jordan Sweet and former teammate Lewis Young. English should still retain ruck status but also get forward status to go with it.
Ben McEvoy
Don’t forget, this article isn’t about the ‘most relevant positional changes.’ We’ll get to that once the positions get announced. Instead, this is about forecasting changes. For example, Ben McEvoy moved into the #2 ruck position behind Jon Ceglar, and his height and marking presence was maximised inside the Hawks forward 50. As a result, he should retain DPP but will move from DEF/RUC last year into an RUC/FWD.
Josh Daicos
Two seasons ago, Josh Daicos was looming as one of the breakout forward candidates in fantasy footy. However, due to multiple injuries and frequent positional changes, Josh has found himself off plenty of fantasy footy radars. In the games he did play last year, he put his mercurial surname into good use inside forward 50. Regaining forward status should bring him back into view for coaches.
Stephen Coniglio
We might not have enough data on this for champion data to do it. But Stephen Coniglio spent alot of time inside forward 50 option at centre bounces. Historically, champion data that the starting position at centre bounce ‘is a consideration in the allocations. Should he gain forward status, a combination of this and a low starting price due to injury might make ‘Cogs’ one of the most highly owned players in the game.
Tom Powell
Last season he was a strong early season cash cow. For those who play AFLFantasy, you’ll know that he was awarded MID/FWD DPP midseason after spending a large portion of the year playing off the half-forward line. As a result, I believe he’s a prime candidate to commence the 2022 fantasy year with the same MID/FWD status. I do suspect Tom Powell will increase his midfield minutes next year. But with Jason Horne-Francis landing at the club in the draft, I expect him to increase the competition for midfield rotations at North Melbourne.
During last preseason many in the fantasy community were unsure of whether to jump on due to his role volatility in the Dogs side. Pre-injury, Josh Dunkley was the form player, post-injury he was barely playable. Given his heavy Forward time after the return from surgery, I believe Josh Dunkley will retain MID/FWD DPP. As a result, this coming season will be once again filled with the Dunkley dilemma discussions.
Rowan Marshall
With Paddy Ryder missing multiple games last year that Rowan Marshall played, it wouldn’t shock me if he lost DPP. But I think in the totality of the season, Marshall spent enough time starting and then playing inside forward 50 to retain his R/F DPP. So if Ryder misses large chunks of this coming season, too, it could be Marshall that pushes towards that #1 ranking forward by seasons end. His upside is enormous.
Patrick Dangerfield
Pretty simple this one. Patrick Dangerfield played as a centre bounce midfielder and played as a damaging isolated forward. You know what to do champion data. When it comes to allocating positions, you can leave his status unchanged.
Lachie Whitfield
When Lachie Whitfield is on the ground, he’s a damaging top tier outside player in the game. For the Giants, they allowed him to stay deployed across the half-back and push up the wings. He averaged four rebound 50’s a game and should maintain his defensive status. There might even be a chance he’s allocated a MID/DEF and provide us coaches with some early squad versatility.
Dustin Martin
You’ll be hearing alot about Dusty this preseason. The triple Norm Smith medalist plans to be back with a vengeance in 2022. This could make him a bargain buy among the fantasy footy formats, given I believe he’s a lock to retain MID/FWD DPP.
Two weeks of the multi bye rounds are over. We now have an additional four teams with no more scheduled rests for the remainder of the season. So here’s a club by club breakdown of potential upgrade targets who have just had their bye round.
A one game suspension for Dayne Zorko rules himself out of a trade target this week. It’s a frustrating loss for current owners who cop an extra 0 in round 14. But for coaches wanting to trade into one of the best forwards of the season, you’ll need to wait another week. In SuperCoach, he’s averaging 108.7 across the season, including a rolling monster three game average of 133. While for AFLFantasy/DreamTeam, he’s going at 103.8 for the season and since round 5 has only had one score below 100. It’s not a ‘buy low’ option, but on the current trend, he’s been the most reliable, durable and consistent premium forward of 2021.
On the topic of ‘paying for what you get’ Jarryd Lyons has been one of the most reliable players of the season. In SuperCoach, he’s currently ranked inside the top 10 players in the format with an average of 119, made of 11 tons from his 12 games this year. Similarly, in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam, he’s dominating with an average of 111.7 and just one score below 95 all season. To go with his high scoring floor is a newly discovered ceiling that makes him a genuine captaincy options in most games.
When the discussion around premium defenders comes up the following names come up frequently and rightfully so. Rory Laird, Tom Stewart, Jake Lloyd, Callum Mills etc. However. Daniel Rich, deserves to be discussed in this category too. For SuperCoach, He’s ranked 6th for total points and by averages amongst all defenders. His average of 104.6 and just one score under 89 all year makes him an attractive premium prospect. What should increase ‘buy’ stocks on him even more so his ownership in just 5% of teams is criminally low for the season he’s delivered.
Across in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam he’s ranked 6th for total points (1,189) and 7th for averages (99.1). Just like in SC, his scoring basement (80) is high, while he does offer a ceiling (131) which is something he’s struggled to deliver at times in this format. Like his teammate Jarryd Lyons, he’s unique and he’s top tier low scoring variance option.
We can’t speak about the Brisbane Lions and not discuss the reigning Brownlow Medalist Lachie Neale. He started the season as the most expensive midfielder, but after suffering from a preseason back injury it limited his early season form. However, he started to get back to his best in 5 against Essendon. In that match he scored 145 in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam and 157 in SuperCoach. However, the very next week he suffered an ankle injury that saw him miss the next 6 weeks.
In his come back match against Essendon before the bye he had 26 possession, 14 of them contested and going at 80% efficiency. Importantly he won 9 clearances and had 3 score involvements. At his price this isn’t the perfect week to get him. His breakeven while attainable given his lofty history, is still a week or so away from basement price.
Then add a matchup with Mark O’Connor the following week who towled him up earlier in the season in round two you might be tempted to wait one further week. However, if you look at the Brisbane fixture after round 15, it opens up like crazy for last years Preliminary finalists. They play Adelaide, St Kilda, Richmond, Hawthorn and Gold Coast. You couldn’t ask for a better run, and no ‘tagger’ among them.
In SuperCoach heading into round 16, he’s projected to be priced about $530,000 while in AFLFantasy it’ll be $700,000 and similar in DreamTeam. At those price point if you need a M8 he’ll be very difficult to ignore given that fixture and his history.
Four weeks ago wSA the perfect ‘buy low’ on Patrick Cripps. In that time he posted 3 AFLFantasy/DreamTeam 100’s and posted a season high 133 in SuperCoach just two games ago against the Swans. A combination of managing injuries and him being used more forward than I like is seeing ‘Crippa’ not deliver the consistency of scoring he has in the past. For me, he’s still a solid option. But I’d only go there if cash generation and trades is a major problem and you need to start taking ‘the best available in a range.’
I don’t really want to write up about Nic Newman, but I feel an obligation to do so somewhere inside of me. He’s got a fantasy pedigree and is someone I wouldn’t be shocked to average 90 over the final 10 weeks of the season. However, for me, I see some better value options at a comparable or cheaper price. Plus, I don’t see him averaging enough to be a top 10 defender over the final 10 weeks. Pass for me, but others might see it differently.
The one to target for me from the Blues is Zac Williams. History tells us that he’s an elite rebounding defender, and when given the opportunity, he can be a 90 defender if not greater. Over the past 3 weeks, Carlton have seemingly abandoned the ‘he’s a midfielder’ plan, and since moving back, he’s started to play well and deliver the fantasy scoring. In his last three games, he’s averaging 102 in SuperCoach, while in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam, he’s scored two games between 90-99.
Nic Newman and Zac Williams’s additions into the defensive unit have meant that Sam Docherty’s scoring has taken a hit. Why? Because he’s been moved out of his preferred halfback role and asked to play more across the wing. He’s been excellent over the totality of the season, but as long as he’s not the prime mover for the Blues, I wouldn’t be trading into him.
Carlton has replaced their midfield reliance on Patrick Cripps for an overreliance on Sam Walsh. At the start of the season, he was one of the easiest starting squad plays. His current average of 110 in SuperCoach and 108 in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam shows that owners have been justified with the selection. If you’re looking to bring him in, it’s not a ‘cheap pick’, it’s not a ‘unique pick’, nor is he in reality yet a ‘captaincy pick.’ But as an owner across the formats, owning him is a fun pick!
The recently re-signed ‘bomber for life’ Zach Merrett is enjoying another consistent year. He’s yet again averaging 110 across the formats, and barring one exception against North Melbourne, has been a picture of consistency. One thing you want when trading into a premium is to time it with a favourable matchup. That way, you get the immediate scoring bump into your lineup.
This happens for Merrett owners this week, coming up against Hawthorn side that lacks midfield Power and giving up plenty of fantasy points to opposition players.
Fantasy Footy 101 is what? Buy Low, Sell High! Darcy Parish has been sensational since his move into the midfield. Yes, he’s a captaincy option, and yes, he’s unique. But for it to be worth the investment, he needs to go 135 over the rest of the seasons 10 games. Can he? Possibly, will he? I don’t think so! Well done if you own him, but until that price bottoms out a little, it’s a pass from me.
On current form, Kyle Langford is one of the form forwards of the competition. The bombers midfield injury crisis has also aided his scoring boost, averaging over 110 across all formats of the game in the past three games. This midfield role should continue for the next few weeks, which means the scoring trend will follow suit. My only word of caution is to keep an eye on the returning Dylan Shiel in 2-3 weeks and what impact his role may have.
One of the best starting squad options in 2021 has been Nick Hind. The former Saint has been outstanding as the club’s replacement for Adam Saad. While he hasn’t popped too many high ceiling games yet, he’s offered incredible consistent scoring. If your forward line is looking for a bankable 90 from now till seasons end, Hind is your guy.
After a strong opening month where he averaged 133 in SuperCoach and 108 in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam, Jordan Ridley slowed a little late. He might scare many of on current form, but he has a history of being a top tier defender. Part of the problem has been the sharing of kick out duties that he held a monopoly on during that opening month. He’s a great buy low option, especially if he can get back some of that kick in ownership.
If your ranking has you near the top of the tree, then chances are you’ve own Jackson Macrae for large portions of the season. He’s the only player across all formats of the game that’s scored 100 or more in every match. He’ll cost you a large chunk of coin, but his current owners will testify that he’s worth every cent. If you don’t own him, you need to wait and hope he drops a stinker. If you have non-owners remorse, it’s because players like Macrae you want for all the season, not just portions of it. Learn from it!
Is he a must have? Honestly, no. Why? Two reasons, if you’re trying to make up ground on the current leaders, he won’t be unique to help you do that. Second, as good as he’s been this year (and he’s been spectacular) across the formats, we have cheaper options that are scoring within a handful of points of him, such as Touk Miller.
I won’t talk anyone out of owning him. He’s a jet and is clearly a VC/C option every week! The only thing I would say is this, can you invest the money in other options that in totality improve your side overall?
You can’t talk about the Bulldogs and not highlight their skipper in Marcus Bontempelli. He’s having a career best season so far. His current SuperCoach average of 126 is 10 points clear on anything he’s down ever in his career. Similarly, in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam, it’s the first time he’s averaged over 110.
Bont has gone on hot runs like this before and averaging similar numbers. What prospective buyers will need from this investment is a return that is comparable or greater than his current average. If he doesn’t, then paying ‘overs’ can cripple your rush to end the season. Since round 4 in SuperCoach, he’s hit the ton in every match, including 7 games north of 125. While AFLFantasy/DreamTeam, he’s on a run of eight consecutive 100’s.
Lachie Hunter has a history of averaging 100 across the formats, but if there was a version of the game you want him more than others in 2021, it’s AFLFantasy. Simply because he gained MID/FWD DPP just a few weeks back.
He is averaging 112.7 in his past three games in SuperCoach and is coming off the back of four consecutive tons. While grabbing him ‘on the cheap’ is certainly tempting,he’s not the only value option in that range. For around $50k cheaper, coaches might be more tempted in the value of Patrick Cripps. Kangaroo Jy Simpkin has had 3 tons in his last 4 games, including a monster 164 and last weekends 128. Hunter is good, but will he offer the ceiling and value of these other options?
A seasonal average of 86 in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam is certainly unders what he’s done historically. Still, the major reason for a slow start to the season was him being squeezed off the wing and onto a half forward line. With injuries to Josh Dunkley and Adam Treloar, Lachie has moved back to his preferred wing role and has since averaged 98 in his past three games. In AFLFantasy, he’s an easy buy this week, and at $642k, it won’t take a rocket scientist to see him as a target this week.
Bailey Dale has been the surprise packet of the year. Nobody called this performance coming from him. An average of 97 in SuperCoach for the season and 105 in the last five. While for the year in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam, he’s running at 86, with that increasing to 93 in his last five games. Dale has been one of the most consistent performing forward options available. If you believe his recent trend continues, then a combination of that plus his low ownership might make him the perfect unique pick for the run home.
Lastly, Caleb Daniel might not be the most attractive pick, but over the course of the past 2 & 1/2 seasons, he’s a proven 90 defender in AFLFantasy/DreamTeam and 100 in SuperCoach. It’s a safe play and certainly something I could get behind if a coach wanted him in.
After rounds 3, 6, 9 & 12 the drafting format of Ultimate Footy awards additional player positions to players that have had a role change in season. As always players are required to have played a minimum of 3 games to be eligible and to be playing the new position as their primary role in the side.
14 players have gained an additional position. Five players have gained back status, three gaining centre, one new ruck and five have picked up forward status. Let’s look at who they are and the relevance to your draft sides and leagues.
Not even Nostradamus saw the scoring volume coming from Aaron Hall in 2021! He, alongside skipper Jack Ziebell, is mopping up everything inside the Kangaroos defensive half. While based on his history, he feels like an injury risk for his coach every single week, the scoring he’s offering is sublime. His true relevance is scoring big as a forward eligible option, but the DPP addition does add some versatility for his owner. An easy addition for UF to make.
James Stewart | ADD BACK
He’s playing a role for the Bombers, but the role isn’t translating into scoring for UltimateFooty. Playing as a key position option in the bombers defense his top score of 43 is nowehere near worth considering as a pickup.
Jy Farrar | ADD BACK
With scores of 86 & 74 in the opening 2 weeks, it looks as though the Suns had unearthed another player. However, since round 7, he’s had only 1 score over 50. Jy spent his time previously as a forward in the SANFL, but the Suns have developed him into a defender, and to be fair, he’s playing his role. Last week 9.8% of coaches dropped him back to the player pool, and I suspect another sub 50 score, even with a new DPP, will see a similar number of squad delistings. Pass!
Atu Bosenavulagi | ADD BACK
The former magpie forward has found a home inside a new loop Kangaroos backline. A simple addition for the team at UF, but not a highly relevant one. Before these DPP gains hit the system, we have 63 backs that are averaging 70 or more, while it’s just 54 in the forwards. Meaning, that right now, it’s harder to get a forward who could go 70 than a defender. If you weren’t one of the 9% of leagues that already own him, this DPP gain shouldn’t have changed your assessment of him.
Jack Sinclair | ADD BACK
Jack Sinclair getting back status is possibly less exciting than what it looked like in the preseason after scoring 112 in the AAMI Community Series. But with the saints trying to squeeze everyone into that midfield, Sinclair has been one of the players moved to the backline. A score of 102 plus two additional scores over 70 in his last five is solid enough to be picked up and added to your roster.
Normally the addition of centre status is the least helpful for coaches. It rarely adds to any increase of on-field scoring but rather adds some squad versatility. While this is true for Dan Houston, the timing is additionally helpful for coaches who play through the bye rounds and might in some rounds be scampering for every available on field option.
Jack Crisp | ADD CENTRE
See comments above from Dan Houston!
Liam Baker | ADD CENTRE
Over the past few weeks, the Tigers have been destroyed by injuries through the midfield. It’s meant their coaching staff has had to get creative with who plays through the midfield. Liam Baker was played heavily through the midfield last week and spent some weeks prior also higher up the ground. It looks like this was enough to give the premiership tiger a new DPP.
Here are a list of reasons for why you should consider picking up Caleb Graham
You are Caleb Graham, and you’d like to own yourself!
As coach, you are intentionally tanking your league results to benefit your own future draft position or annoy other league coaches.
It’s a customised league that means you play with 2 rucks on the field plus bench cover. Meaning anyone playing with ruck status helps, and his weekly 40 points are the difference between having bench cover and no cover at all.
Other than these three reasons you should be steering clear.
By name value, this is probably the biggest addition to DPP stocks for this batch. Historically, Lachie Hunter has been a safe 90-100 performer over the years. But in 2021, he’s been squeezed out of the wing role instead of playing as a high end half-forward. He had an ADP of 39, so this is some respite for coaches who spent an early pick on him and have been getting a low return on investment. He moves now into the F1 or F2 spot for most coaches.
Callum Ah Chee | ADD FORWARD
From his 8 games in 2021, he’s scored over 50 in just 2 of these games. You don’t want that as a back or a forward. Pass!
Sam Berry | ADD FORWARD
I really like Sam Berry as a player. He adds something to an Adelaide Crows side that, for a few years, they’ve lacked. That being a hard at it defensive mindset and a player that loves to tackle. He averages 5.3 tackles per game, and in time, the other elements of his game will develop. As that happens, the Crows are letting him build along nicely as an occasional midfielder, but more so as a pressure forward. His average of 50 isn’t anything to consider for seasonal leagues, but in keepers, he might be worth a pick up depending on how many you can hold on your list.
Shaun Higgins | ADD FORWARD
Earlier in this article, I highlighted the lack of forwards who weekly are safe 70+ scoring options. With Shaun Higgins now added to the list, existing owners now have something to smile about. Shaun has filled the void left by the Goat Gary Ablett in the Cats forward line. With scores of 78 & 85 since returning from injury, he moves from a probable bench option as a centre to an on-field forward. He’s still available in 20% of leagues, and I expect this DPP gain, ownership, and value to owners to increase.
After rounds 3, 6, 9, 12 & 15 the drafting format of Ultimate Footy awards additional player positions to players that have had a role change in season. On Wednesday, we’ll confirm with you exclusively which players WILL gain a new position, but before then, here are some players we believe would be in consideration for obtaining a new positional status.
Not even Nostradamus saw the scoring volume coming from Aaron Hall in 2021! He, alongside skipper Jack Ziebell, is mopping up everything inside the Kangaroos defensive half. While based on his history, he feels like an injury risk for his coach every single week, the scoring he’s offering is sublime. His true relevance is scoring big as a forward eligible option, but the DPP addition does add some versatility for his owner. An easy addition for UF to make. Lock it up!
Zac Tuohy | ADD BACK
Over the previous 12 months, we’ve seen the Irishman get used higher up the ground. However, over the past 4-6 weeks, Zac Tuohy has moved back to his more historic role across half back, including taking a share of kick ins. In his past 5 weeks, he’s had 4 scores of 80+. A year long average of 75 as a centre is irrelevant, but should he gain DPP, that’d place him inside the top 25 highest ranked backs over the past 5 weeks.
Jack Sinclair | ADD BACK
Jack Sinclair getting back status is possibly less exciting than what it looked like in the preseason after scoring 112 in the AAMI Community Series. But with the saints trying to squeeze everyone into that midfield, Sinclair has been one of the players moved to the backline. If he picks up DPP, then expect his current ownership of 71% to spike quickly.
‘Crispy’ has always pushed up the ground even when starting across half back. But in 2021, Nathan Buckley seems quite content to play him at centre bounce more regularly. The possible DPP will open squad versatility and create further options for his owners. It still looks like a top 6-8 defensive premium in 2021.
Harry Schoenberg | ADD CENTRE
The Crows will be happy with the development of Harry, as his time through the midfield is gradually increasing across the season. Like all players who gain centre, it’s rarely helpful in boosting on-field scoring. However, it could be helpful in your league if you play through the bye rounds.
Jack Lukosious | ADD CENTRE
The Suns love his use of the ball by foot and have looked to transform him again into a damaging wingman. When he gets on the end of it, his sublime foot skills are often exploited to help set up deep inside forward 50 attacks from Gold Coast. He’s picking up centre status will add squad flexibility and not gain you more points on the field.
The addition of Adam Treloar was always going to have a cascading impact on the Bulldogs midfield that was already stacked for options. It seems that Lachie Hunter is one of those who’s taken the biggest hit, with the wingman now spending a majority of his time playing a forward bound role. He was close to getting DPP after round 6, but even with him missing last weeks matchup, I think he’s done enough to gain forward status. If he gains DPP, it could be a huge win in a line that injuries have decimated teams structures.
Xavier O’Halloran | ADD FORWARD
This one is probably only relevant for deep dynasty and keeper leagues, but the Giants Xavier O’Halloran youngster has started to show some signs in a pure football sense. From a UltimateFooty perspective, he’s had 3 scores over 60 in his last five which is reasonable playing predominantly inside forward 50. Depending on the league you’re in and the youthful expression on your list, it might be worth a sneaky pickup.
Jack Billings | ADD FORWARD
He’ll always be in the conversation for regaining his forward status, given how damaging he is inside forward 50. With the saints trying to squeeze Brad Crouch into that midfield unit, the Saints have used Billings more forward than across the wings. The question for us will be, has he spent enough time forward to his UF’s percentage quota. For me, I’m leaning towards it being a yes, but I wouldn’t be shocked if they opted against it. While he is playing more forward, it’s not an exclusive move.
After rounds 3, 6, 9, 12 & 15 the drafting format of Ultimate Footy awards additional player positions to players that have had a role change in season. At the conclusion of the round we’ll confirm with you exclusively which players WILL gain a new position, but before then here are some players we believe would be in consideration for obtaining a new positional status.
Jack Sinclair getting back status is possibly less exciting than what it looked like in the preseason after scoring 112 in the AAMI Community Series. But with the saints trying to squeeze everyone into that midfield Sinclair has been one of the players moved to the backline.
Dyson Heppell | ADD BACK
Dyson Heppell missed getting DPP post round three because he missed the qualification of playing three games. Since then, the Essendon skipper has solidified this defensive role. His likely addition should be a huge boost for his owners, especially if they are running shallow in the backline and deep in the centre. Arguably this will be one of the biggest DPP gains we get.
Bailey Dale | ADD BACK
I was surprised UltimateFooty didn’t award this after round 3, so hopefully, they amend it in this batch of DPP additions. Bailey Dale has forged a role for himself as part of the Bulldogs defensive seven. He’s started to take some of the kick in duties from Caleb Daniel and is showing plenty of XFactor and class. It looks like Bevo has turned another mid/fwd into a centrepiece of the backline.
Miles Bergman | ADD Back
The young forward has been redeveloped as a defender in the offseason and has shown he can get it done in defence at the elite level in his handful of games. Lock it in!
Chad Warner has already proven to be one of the best moneymakers of the season. He’s found himself at home as part of the Swans midfield group and should be a walk up DPP addition for UF.
Jack Crisp | ADD Centre
‘Crispy’ has always pushed up the ground even when starting across half back. But in 2021, Nathan Buckley seems quite content to play him at centre bounce more regularly. The possible DPP will open squad versatility and create further options for his owners. It still looks like a top 6-8 defensive premium in 2021.
Mark O’Connor | ADD CENTRE
The Cats have continued to use Mark O’Connor in a defensive midfield role over the past month. Despite picking up an injury last week, he still did enough in my eyes to award him centre status.
Jaidyn Stephenson | ADD CENTRE
He’s playing heavy midfield minutes for the Kangaroos, add centre status. Pretty simple really! Next!
Jack Lukosious | ADD CENTRE
The Suns love his use of the ball by foot and have looked to transform him again into a damaging wingman. When he gets on the end of it, his sublime foot skills are often exploited to help set up deep inside forward 50 attacks from Gold Coast. He’s picking up centre status will add squad flexibility and not gain you more points on the field.
He’s been excellent over the past few weeks, both in his role through the ruck and also in providing a viable tall target option up forward. Normally a ruckman gaining forward status only provides coaches with some squad flexibility, but with forwards struggling to score in 2021, this could be the exception.
Lachie Hunter | ADD FORWARD
The addition of Adam Treloar was always going to have a cascading impact on the Bulldogs midfield that was already stacked for options. It seems that Lachie Hunter is one of those who’s taken the biggest hit, with the wingman now spending a majority of his time playing a forward bound role. If he gains DPP it could be a huge win! Especially with the injury impact of Josh Dunkley missing the vast majority of the season.
Josh Daicos | ADD FORWARD
Josh Daicos was one of the more hyped breakout candidates for 2021. Despite the club moving on both Adam Treloar and Tom Phillips, who were staples of the Magpie midfield previously, Daicos can barely get a CBA. Instead, Bucks has been content to play him as a small forward. As a result, his scoring has decreased to the point where last week he scored a season high 75. Unless his role changes and he plays midfield, he’s set to stay as an irrelevant option in classic. Draft coaches will be hoping to get the DPP so they can atleast something out of what’s been a disastrous selection result so far.
NB: He spent alot of time in the midfield this week, and that might just be enough for UF to hesitate awarding it for another few weeks to see if the midfield role has rebounded.
Josh Kelly | ADD FORWARD
He has barely attended a CBA in the past four weeks and seems to have inherited the role Lachie Whitfield made famous as a high half-forward pushing up the ground. It’d be some solace for coaches that drafted him if he does get it. With an ADP of 23, it’ll be a small consolidation as easily one of the biggest premium busts of the drafting season so far.
Jack Billings | ADD FORWARD
He’ll always be in the conversation for regaining his forward status, given how damaging he is inside forward 50. With the saints trying to squeeze Brad Crouch into that midfield unit, the Saints have used Billings more forward than across the wings. The question for us will be, has he spent enough time forward to his UF’s percentage quota. For me, I’m leaning towards it being a yes, but I wouldn’t be shocked if they opted against it. While he is playing more forward, it’s not an exclusive move.
Devon Smith | ADD FORWARD
See above… He’s a chance! And his owners will be praying he does get it. His average of 73 as a centre is almost someone not worth rostering in most leagues, so he needs it to stay relevant.
Nat Fyfe | ADD FORWARD
Any small chances he had to pick up forward status got smashed last weekend, with the Dockers skipper attending 95% of centre bounces last weekend against North Melbourne. It’s doubtful he gets it, but if he does, then go out and purchase yourself a lottery ticket because that’s a huge dose of luck if he does.
Before round 6, 12 and 18, the gang at AFLFantasy team up with Champion Data to add some new DPP into the game. After round 5, the first list of names and positions will be released. Historically, AFLFantasy has said that players need a minimum of 35% to be considered for a new allocation in a new position. So let’s see which players are locks, close or no chance of getting DPP.
The former saint will be one of the first and easiest DPP decisions that AFLFantasy will make in 2021. Nick Hind has gone from occasional AFL player at St Kilda to a permanent fixture of the Essendon backline. His run and carry have seen many supporters not notice the gap left by Adam Saad.
Jack Ziebell | ADD DEFENDER
Jack Ziebell is in a similar vein to Hind and will pick up defender status. The Roos captain has been revitalised as a scorer and will provide his owner flexibility to play him at whatever end of the ground they need. His starting price made him awkward to pick in classic, but he’s a genuine top 6 FWD/DEF option if he keeps this scoring up.
Jarman Impey | ADD DEFENDER
No surprises here, with Jarman Impey’s name as a certain gain of this new status. The hawks love his speed and ball use out of defensive 50. His teammates look to get the ball in his hands and every available opportunity. Depending on your overall squad’s health and balance, he’s now able to be played as either a forward or back on the field comfortably. Probably more draft relevant than classic, but a valid addition.
Dyson Heppell | ADD DEFENDER
Will need to play this round to be considered, given Dyson Heppell has only played two games in the 2021 season. The Bombers skipper has found a new home across half back, and after back to back scores of 80+, his 2.5% of owners will be happy when this new position lands. The small % of coaches who own will be keen to flip down back and get another cow off-field.
Jayden Hunt | ADD DEFENDER
The run and carry defender is well and truly enjoying a scoring renaissance with how the AFL is being played. After attempting to reinvent him as a small forward over the past few seasons, Melbourne has deployed Jayden Hunt back into his preferred defensive role.
His last 3 weeks he’s scored 80, 93 & 68. Priced at over $443,000 and with a breakeven of 34 he’s not someone anymore I’d consider in classic. Maybe a draft addition depending on the depth of your squads.
Miles Bergman | ADD DEFENDER
He’ll need to play this weekend to be considered, but if he does, then surely the gang at AFLFantasy award this additional position. The young forward has been redeveloped as a defender in the offseason and has shown he can get it done at the elite level in his handful of games.
Tom Atkins | ADD DEFENDER
Another DPP that’s been mooted since the preseason began. Geelong has spoken about and now used Tom Atkins as a defender. The club loves his pressure acts and the defensive efforts on the game. If the Cats can get their possession game going, he should be in a 70’s averaging BACK/FWD, which would be more than handy for his owner as a bench option if nothing else.
Aaron Hall | ADD DEFENDER
Much like his captain, Aaron Hall has been moved into the backline to provide some much needed experience. Hall has been used to provide some defensive run and carry in his two full games and has scored 99 & 123. One more full game in this role, and AFLFantasy will certainly have to consider awarding the new position. However, even if they don’t award DPP, his value to coaches in especially draft is more than he’s scoring well and is forward eligible.
Genuinely scoring like a top 6 defender with an average of 102 and has the lowest score of 85. Callum Mills has been immense in the Swans midfield and is an easy addition for the boffins at AFLFantasy to make. The 6.8% of coaches on him just have got themselves some increased squad flexibility.
Chad Warner | ADD MIDFIELD
I think we’ll see a bunch of Sydney players awarded DPP, and with good reason too. Chad Warner has already proven to be one of the best moneymakers of the season. He’s found himself at home as part of the Swans midfield group and should be a walk up DPP addition for AF.
Jack Crisp | ADD MIDFIELD
‘Crispy’ has always pushed up the ground even when starting across half back. But in 2021, Nathan Buckley seems quite content to play him at centre bounce more regularly. The possible DPP will open squad versatility and create further options for his owners. It still looks like a top 6-8 defensive premium in 2021.
Liam Duggan | ADD MIDFIELD
Another easy one of the gang at AFLFantasy. With Luke Shuey and Elliot Yeo missing plenty of games, the Eagles have given others greater midfield opportunities. Liam Duggan is one of those and should become a MID/DEF by the time lockout lifts this week.
The long term injury to Sam Draper forced the Bombers into a restructure. That’s meant two metre Peter has gone from a ‘relief ruck’ role into the leader of the pack. I wouldn’t be interested in him in classic, but depending on your draft league’s depth, he might be someone worth considering.
He has to get it and will be a monster addition to the competition. Errol Gulden has been the best performing rookie of the season and with his scoring. In a week, you’ll be able to shaft one of the forward cows to either the bench or slaughterhouse for culling and move Gulden into the forwardline.
Tim English | ADD FORWARD
Stefan Martin’s addition has allowed Tim to become the ‘second ruck’ option for the Bulldogs. As a result, he’s playing predominantly full forward and creating a marking target for the doggies. The probably DPP gain will be most helpful in the draft versions of AFLFantasy.
Lachie Hunter | ADD FORWARD
The addition of Adam Treloar was always going to have a cascading impact on the Bulldogs midfield that was already stacked for options. It seems that Lachie Hunter is one of those who’s taken the biggest hit, with the wingman now spending a majority of his time playing a forward bound role. If he gains DPP and, by some miracle, regain that wing role, he’s a genuine top-tier AFLFantasy forward option.
Jacob Koschitzke | ADD FORWARD
The Hawks have transitioned ‘Kosi’ from a key defensive role into a full forward. But with an average of 43, and no certainty of playing weekly he shouldn’t be someone we get too excited about.
Josh Daicos | ADD FORWARD
Josh Daicos was one of the more hyped breakout candidates for 2021. Despite the club moving on both Adam Treloar and Tom Phillips, who were staples of the Magpie midfield previously, Daicos can barely get a CBA. Instead, Bucks has been content to play him as a small forward. As a result, his scoring has decreased to the point where last week he scored a season high 75. Unless his role changes and he plays midfield, he’s set to stay as an irrelevant option in classic. Draft coaches will be hoping to get the DPP so they can atleast something out of what’s been a disastrous selection result so far.
Josh Kelly | ADD FORWARD
He has attended under 10 CBA’s in the past two weeks and seems to have inherited the role Lachie Whitfield made famous as a high half forward pushing up the ground. It’d be some solace for the 2.5% of coaches that own him given his average of 86 is almost 30 points per game under his multiple previous best seasons of 110+ averages. He’d become very relevant if DPP is awarded.
Possible, but don’t count on in
Nat Fyfe
It wouldn’t shock me at all if he got it! Nat Fyfe kicked 6 behinds on the Hawks and took plenty of marks inside forward last week. But to go with his forward time he’s still winning plenty of the ball at centre stoppages. It al depends on how close to that 35% data split he gets.
Tim Taranto
This looked more certain after round two, given his low midfield minutes. However, since injuries have struck the club hard, they’ve thrown Tim back into the guts. He’s still a chance given the cumulative time over the 5 weeks will be considered. But at this point, I’d lean on it being more likely he misses out.
If you believe in changing your team mid AAMI community series, then this clash would’ve given your fantasy footy apps a workout. With premiums delivering big numbers, we got alot to take away from the Bulldogs and Demons game.
Bontempelli
He’s not bad at football hey? Just remember he did the exact same thing in last year during the preseason.
Macrae
He also goes ok at this game, for those who hadn’t noticed yet.
Dunkley
Ok let me elaborate on this one because there have been questions raised – by his own coach no less – about Dunkley’s current footballing ability. So nevermind the score and the fact he played mids, the key thing here is that he played mids with a clearly defined run-with role and he thrived on it. Playing accountable means he plays, and he plays near a man to cuddle. Double figure tackle numbers in preseason is an excellent display which makes me (and hopefully Bevo) very happy.
Daniel
Rocketed out of the gates but slowed down as he copped a little more attention. Expect him to cop a lot this year. Depending on whether you were keen on him or not, confirmation bias is easily found in one of the two halves of today’s match.
Martin & English
Double-teamed Gawn and nullified influence. Martin looks like he has a new lease on life while English did a pretty good impression of a key forward at times. The two will give a lot of teams a lot of grief in the ruck this year, meaning the Dogs aren’t necessarily giving up bulk points in that department like they have in recent history. Given English played a lot forward, keep in mind that forwards might score well against Melbourne but perhaps less so against other teams. Handy if he does gain DPP in the formats which allow that.
Hunter & Smith
On the eye test both were pushed out of the midfield a lot tonight; Hunter to the half-forward line and Smith to the wing. Both did a lot of damage in their respective roles. Does this allow Treloar to slot straight into the mid rotations?
Scott
Not often we get a bottom priced 25 year old rookie in the mix for rd 1. This is exactly what we got. Scott didn’t do his chances any harm at all in this game. He kicked a couple of goals, rotated through the flanks. He obviously was rookied (from the dogs VFL squad) for a role.
McNeil
Played the pressure small fwd role through the game. Wasn’t prolific but did snag himself a goal. This game he didn’t bang the door down but will stay in contention for early games.
Mopped up everything that went into the forward line that didn’t go through the big sticks. Unfortunately went off very sore after a marking contest and missed the last part of the game, so monitor news in the coming days.
Gawn
Dominated the ruck but had little of his trademark influence around the ground. As noted above, the Martin and English combo will annoy a lot of big men this year.
Harmes
Not the best player, but maybe the most enthusiastic. Spent a lot of time dancing without finding a partner or a possession and there must be questions about a midfield role once Brayshaw Viney & Oliver return. Does he go back to tagging, or back to the backline, or back to the VFL?
Petracca
Barely got out of first gear but got well acquainted with Dunkley for awhile. No reason not to pick him if you were already keen.
Langdon
Ok yes I know, but hear me out. If this week is anything to go by (and that does remain to be seen, it is a small sample size after all), it does appear as though this is the sort of year where running half backs who can create space and overlap and nail the 45 kick are getting a lot of easy marks and possessions. And that’s what Langdon did. Make of that what you will.
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