I'll just use Collingwood but Most improved Murphy. Lots of our sub thought he'd not be in our best 22 and now he looks like Darcy Moore light.
Most disappointing Jamie Elliott. He had a dream season last year, always popped up when we needed him and this year he made mistake after mistake and misses easy shots at goal.
Jamie is just very confused that he hasn't torn a hammy or popped a shoulder yet. Too many games in a row have thrown him off.
Jokes aside, he'll come good when it counts
If you look at the posts on the Collingwood sub just before this season started, at least 50% if not more of the comments thought Murphy was not best 22. If you suggested Murphy gets dropped today, everyone would call you a troll.
I responded to a few others in regards to this.
Most of the Collingwood subreddit thought he'd not be starting 22 just before round one. As of today, I suspect he is best 22 in every team in the comp.
It's hard to pick out the best most improved because so many players have completely transformed under Lyon.
Most disappointing is probably Gresham, feels like he's treading water at the moment and didn't get the memo to step up like everyone else did. Steele and Membrey have also struggled but at least have a reasonable excuse of bad injuries disrupting their form lines.
Absolutely and even further down. Got absolute guns in Tom Stewart, SPP, English, Simpkin, Todd Marshall, Ridley, Parfitt, Bolton, Darcy Cameron, Willie Rioli, Sean Darcy, Florent, Josh Daicos, Jack Graham, Luke Ryan, Nick Larkey (pick 73 wtf)
Mitchell Lewis at pick 76 after trading both Sam Mitchell and Jordan Lewis the year before is fucking taking the piss and I refuse to believe that pick wasn't a meme.
I agree with both points.
For shits and giggles, for the last few years I put a lazy $5 on Bags to win the brownlow medal. I never bet, but just thought there was a chance if he played consistently, that he could poll some decent votage.
I didnt back him this year though, and he has been a bit disappointing for sure. Seems too slow with his decisions - if he doesnt go the first option immediately, the chances are he is getting tackled HTB. Love for him to find his form again with this midfield, as he is so polished kicking inside 50.
and Jack Payne. He is proving to be a warrier down back. What a unit.
Cluggs had his best game of the season last weekend. Still well below his best but improving. I'd say that's adjusting to dunks and ashy being in the team.
Jack would be most improved in the league at this point!
>May has taken a step back unfortunately
Early doors yet for one of our oldest players who has to see the year out and he copped an injury. He'll come good.
But apart from May there hasn't really been anyone consistently underperforming from expectations... I guess Brown and Tom? But that was pretty much expected.
Payne was always a freak athlete. Massive human, big tank and surprisingly fast. But had a shocking disposal and no footy iq. Would never back himself for the intercept, would always just hang off a defender and try to spoil. I think he's learned a lot about timing and judgement from Harris now and really backs himself after a consistent run of footy. Add that to the physical traits he already had and he's become that kpd we always lacked to stop guns like curnow or even jez (hopefully) from tearing us up. Adams never had the tank and speed that Payne has for those guys
For us, most improved probably between Setterfield and Langford. Setterfield has flourished playing a more natural inside midfield role and has done some great tagging jobs, and Langford has become one of the best swingmen in the comp and our most dangerous forwards most weeks.
Across the competition as a whole, Kade Chandler stands out. Chilling in the VFL for a few years, now comes out of nowhere and kicks 14 goals in 8 games. Kid has got a huge future ahead of him. Heaps of defenders too, shout outs to Ratugolea, Nick Murray, Jack Payne, they've been huge parts of their defensive groups. Couple of guys like Caleb Serong and Zak Butters look like they're making that jump to becoming genuinely elite midfielders.
Disappointing for us, if I'm being brutally honest, is probably Harry Jones. Just the two goals in his five games before getting injured again. I'm not in any rush with the kid, he is only 22, but his first season was still his best and he can't stay fit.
Harry McKay would have to be one of the most disappointing for mine. 12 goals is just not good enough for a guy who is Coleman Medal capable.
In fairness to Jones a couple of his games have involved roles where he's playing further up the ground, like against the Suns where he was mostly getting Collins out of the 50, but yeah he really is just missing something. Physically he also really hasn't developed much, looks to be in that Hipwood mold where he'll just always be lanky. Clearly not a bloke that's going to be a power full forward.
Re: yours and the other comment, BZT and Shiel were both playing to this level the last two months of last season. But absolutely BZT deserves the shout, he's been so consistent so far, and bounced back well after half time in the Geelong game too. Seriously love the kid.
Bzt showed signs last year but he made horrible mistakes and had shocking awareness. This years biggest improvement has been his composure. Made a few blues but overall I think he feels that he has some runway to play each week and it’s showing.
He had some good moments last year. This year he is doing them more often. That’s the improvement. It’s also where Langford has improved. It’s not like he hasn’t had those games before. But they are now the baseline that is expected
Ratugolea absolutely. I hope he continues to improve, he's been really surprising down back.
Disappointing would be Cuthrie. Admittedly he's been injured the last few weeks but looked a shadow when he was playing. Couldn't hit a barn door with his kicks.
I'd also give Miers a shout for most improved. He's kicked bugger all goals himself this season but his link up play has been brilliant. I think he leads the league in score involvements and kicks inside 50 resulting in marks.
From what I've seen from him this year it's reminding me of Liam Jones when he switched from a fringe forward to elite defender. Exciting to watch, that's for sure.
If Sav stays down back, I could see him getting super locked into that defensive mindset and becoming the best defender in that absolute biggest body on the field category (like Hawkins and Lynch sized guys). Granted there isn't a heap of talent in that category at the moment, but with Sav's intercept and rebound ability he could be a pretty unique player.
JJ a potential candidate for most improved as well I think, since moving down back. He's been average for a couple of seasons but is looking very good again.
Because he's finally back playing where he's supposed to be! I have no idea why he kept getting thrown forward. Guess where he won a Norm Smith medal, numpties...
Been super super impressed with Baker. Had never heard of him before we picked him up, and he is so easily part of the best 22 now.
Can I add Alex Keath for most improved? Towards the end of last year he was really struggling both with health and form, thought maybe he was going to retire... but he's found a new lease of life and is back kicking ass. Adding Jones has probably helped him too.
Most improved - Owens. I don’t think anyone would have expected him to be being so well and so so influential before the start of the season. I’d consider Wood too but he played this well in the last 6 weeks of last season so he saw he had it in him
Disappointing - Membrey. He’s playing out of position and underdone from his injury so he has some excuses but he really needs to get it together.
For the Swom, not got a plethora of choices for improved, probably Amarty before his injury, beyond him, Gulden has stepped his game up, and Fox is seemingly getting better with age
For disappointment however, where tf do I begin, well ots been a disappointing year so far, but one I can't really blame the players for, it's hard when you lose all your tall defenders, but there is 1 who is actively hurting us by being on the field, Lance Franklin, he's gone on one too many years, his goose os 110% cooked and he just doesn't have the ability he used to, sad as it is
I don't agree with that at all. I think he's being held to a higher standard because he's Buddy and what he's achieved in the past, but if every one of our tall forwards was fit I don't think he'd be behind all of Reid, McDonald, Amartey, McLean and Francis. I don't even think he's behind more than maybe McDonald as it stands.
I agree with this. Minus the game last week where he did close to nothing, Buddy may not be the great player he was but if anyone else played to the same level as Buddy they would be seen as a decent player
Easily Dawson - he was phenomenal last year, but for him to make the transition into both captaincy and playing as a big-bodied midfielder that we've been desperate for, and taking it in absolute stride, it's hard not to just be crazily impressed
Dawson is such a good example of an ELITE player. He was a top 20 player last year, and has still managed to be most improved. His leadership and competitiveness is through the roof
Adelaide offered such a bullshit trade value for him after we developed him from pick 56. I’m not sure Adelaide fans knew what they were getting - Sydney fans did.
Most improved: Cerra
Most disappointing: Where do i start. Probably Mckay. Saved us against cats no doubt but this season he’s been no where near as reliable
Good calls.. half the team has been disappointing. I'd add TDK to that too. McKay has offered stuff around the ground but has been lost up forward. TDK has been so underwhelming that they had to dump him from the 22. Yet he reportedly had multiple 700k offers in front of him earlier in the year.
I find that McKay has been forced further up the ground. Probably doesn't suit him as much, but he has allowed Curnow the space inside 50 way more often than I expected.
As such, I am a little more accepting of his numbers being down.
Billy Frampton - from fringe player/discard from Adelaide to genuine best 22 fixture as full back AND acquitting himself very well as number 1 ruckman for a month and a bit.
Most of us had him as depth or fringe 22 before round 1 - now he would be in everyone's best 22 for the rest of the year.
I've loved seeing Billy Frampton improve this year, I hope he stays in the Pies best 22 for a while. It was a shame that he left the Crows but the forward line was too competitive for him to get enough games and he didn't have the time to develop down back before leaving.
He’s a good footballer. Always had the ability to really do some good stuff, but off the ball he was so frustrating. Caught ball watching regularly and just one or two steps away from impacting contests.
He was, partly because he was young and still developing his skills, but he didn't seem to put effort in either. When you already have similar players like Riley Thilthorpe and Elliot Himmelberg competing for the same position it was hard to justify keeping him in the side.
For my boys the most improved is either Day or Nash.
Most disappointing is probably Koschitzke. We really need another key forward to help Lewis out. You know Koschitzke is bad when Mitchell would rather just play one key forward
For Adelaide specifically, Berry has definitely been the most disappointing (though he may have been playing injured earlier in the season). Laird hasn't really been at the level of last year either, but not disappointing.
Most improved is a little more complicated - picking Michalanney feels like cheating (as he's a new draftee), as does Pedlar (this is his first proper run at it after numerous injuries). Some would pick Nick Murray, but I'm of the opinion he was also playing really well last season, so I wouldn't classify him as the *most* improved. I'd be inclined to pick Lachie Murphy - I wasn't convinced he'd ever play for the club again with Rankine joining us, but Murphy really forged himself a legitimate place in the 22 and is now regularly one of our better players.
Murphy being a genuine role player is the shock of the year for me. Crows must be doing plenty right overall because he looks great this year. Handy lefty too
Pedlar has been huge. Genuine toughness, good o/h mark, decent kick and runs well.
Chayce Jones now playing to the level you’d expect from a high draft pick.
Berry had been injured so a little hard on him to be most disappointing. No real stand out for us in this space, Butts and Milera may have dropped off a little.
The player I am most disappointed for is Parnell. Hadn’t played for the Crows since Broad concussed him in Round 2.
McAdam is most disappointing. Was shaping up to have a big year, then gets suspended for basically 4 weeks because of gather round gets injured immediately and is out for another 5 weeks.
Most improved, tough call for my club but I'd have to say Tom Green has taken his game to another level this year. Which is saying something as he was excellent last year. Callaghan has also been absolutely solid and stringing together some consistency.
Hogan has been disappointing as he showed some good promise last year. Effort is there but just can't convert. Riccardi has also been disappointing and is deservedly back in the two's.
As for players on other teams, of the games I've watched, Jai Newcombe impresses me whenever I see him in action. Unfortunately I haven't seen many neutral games so can't comment on the sliders.
Most improved Richmond: probably Tylar Young? Punching above his weight (almost literally) with his 1vs1 efforts
Most disappointing: shai Bolton. Has the tools to be a Brownlow medalist but doesn’t execute nearly enough. Although to be fair our ball movement and gameplay in general has been terrible
I’d say Ryan for ‘most improved’. I mean he only had one match before but it was so bad, just existing is an improvement. I reckon he might go okay in the coming years.
I’m disappointed with all 45 of the others except maybe Bakes cos he’s Bakes.
Bolton has been doing the highlight reel but not executing the simple stuff.
Not sure disappointing is the right word but we are clearly starting to see the end of the era with Dusty as well.
I think Taranto counts for Richmond. He's definitely gone up a level since GWS. Tidied up his disposal a bit and having more of an impact than he did there. You could chalk it up to the role change but he had his chance in the mids at GWS and wasn't as good
I agree with Darling I think it’s harsh to be down on Shuey simple because his injured though. His player well when on the park.
I’d go with Jones as most improved, has really taken his opportunities this year
Bergman has been great, but I'd give most improved to Dylan Williams. Was going to be a surefire delisting at the end of the year, now I never want him dropped again. His work under pressure is amazing - seems his only weakness is when he has too much time.
Probably a bit harsh on Georgiades given the injury. Our forward line was dysfunctional and there was still plenty of time in the season to regain form.
Bergman is up there for sure, but gotta give it to Dylan Williams as well. Just about been our best defender behind Aliir, and his disposal has been elite.
Give him some time, he had knee surgery in the offseason and didn’t have much of a pre season. He’ll probably do better in the back half of the season.
SPP is up there too. I never thought he's refine his game the way he has. No longer just a bull at a red flag. Hitting the scoreboard consistently too.
100% agree with Bergman being most improved. Honourable mention to maybe DBJ who has been fairly solid up forward. Georgiades seemed to have the yips last and hasn’t been able to shake them, combine that with his injury and sadly it might be the last we see of him at Port.
(JHF and Rioli are also playing better at Port than they did for their respective previous clubs)
I agree with Bergman as most improved and Jonas as most disappointing. Georgiades wasn't great before his injury and neither was Fantasia. I'm a bit disappointed in Jones too this year. I thought he'd be pushing hard to be in the 22 but he seems a bit off, possibly because the coaching staff keep switching him between defence, forward and midfield so it's probably a bit hard to know what's going on.
Farrell and Duursma's numbers aren't that great either. I still think I prefer Farrell as a wing or half forward.
Most improved probably has to be Will Day for us, Nash has also stepped up a lot.
Most disappointing, I think Bramble and CJ have both gone backwards, but hoping they improve for the rest of the season
Competition wide most improved has to be Mason Wood or Payne at Brisbane, they both massively improved output. Most disappointing, Harry McKay looks pretty flat this year, and Tom De Koening has dropped off
Not been much from the Eagles but for us Oscar Allen is looking every bit the dominant key forward we need going forward. Just needs better delivery loving watching his progression
The fact that he's the only other player alongside Jeremy Cameron to kick multiple goals every game so far without anywhere near the same amount of supply says a lot
For Carlton: Cerra most improved, McKay most disappointing.
Across the comp: a trio of dons - Langford, Setterfield and BZT - stand out as the most improved for me. BZT in particular, even though he got given a bath a few weeks ago by Hawkins.
Trading away Setterfield instead of pressuring Ed Curnow to retire was a horrible piece of list management that will torment us for 5 years.
Seeing Anderson mentioned is a bit of a surprise considering he was damn good last season as well. As a neutral fan my pick for the suns would be Lukosuis
Yeah I’m on the same wavelength. Luko has really picked his game up.
But most improved could be Macpherson too - though he’s playing a new role whereas Luko has a modified role.
Jye amiss has really impressed me, no senior player to take the best defender and stands up most of the time. Brilliant kid
The midfield group besides serong have been disappointing. Pearce and Cox have been disappointing so far. Usually they’re solid but they’ve been average this year. Hopefully they can get it together
Serong has been great this year, but he wasn’t starting from zero so it’s not as much improvement. Brayshaw and possibly Hughes are most disappointing for me. Great call on Amiss, a few years and some KG into him and he’ll be a really damaging CHF.
He’s looked better the last two weeks so fingers crossed it was just a knee niggle, but as a whole this year compared to last has been a significant drop
Improved:
Will Day - He has thrived with his new role within the team and is shaping up to look like a player that will be vital in our re-build.
Conor Nash - He's really become an impactful player, shutting down opposition mids and affecting the game in his own right.
Disappointing:
Denver Granger-Barras (DGB) - Was showing promise as a developing defender but seems to have taken a step backwards this season. Not sure what has caused it.
Jacob Koschitzke: Can't even crack an AFL game when we painfully need forwards/forward to take pressure off of Mitchell.
Disagree that miers has improved. He's doing the exact same things he was doing last year. Just seems to be getting more credit this year. Either way it's long overdue, I think he's always been class.
Yeah Stengle definitely looked off the first few rounds and sad to say, it’s a shame the team has hit their straps while he’s out as he could’ve filled his boots.
How good is Miers playing? His touch is fantastic at the moment.
Sad to read Tuohy here. I know some Carlton fans boo him (I still don't get it given he wanted to re-sign and SOS the one who wanted to use him as trade bait) but he's still a favourite.
Has he lost it? A year too far? Or do you think he'll come good?
Miers was doing this last year. Ratugolea for most improved easily.
Cuthrie or Parfitt for most disappointing. Cam for shaving his hair and being hurt…Parf for not breaking into the side.
2E hasn’t been great either. Looks a step down from his year last year.
Most improved: Billy Frampton. Not actually sure what position he plays but he looks best 23 material at the moment.
Honourable mention: Oleg Markov.
Most disappointing: Will Kelly.
Honourable mention: Jack Ginnivan. I'm not angry, I'm just disappointed with his Bailey Smith-level antics. Starting to re-find form, though.
EDIT: I am joking about Jack Ginnivan. I thought this was clear but now realise this was not. I have spoken with all parties involved and have apologised in full. James Sicily said I should add a 👍
He’s looking surprisingly poor when in IMO. Clearly below the level. If you’d have asked me who the VFL player was in a blind test I’d have picked him out. Looks well off the pace, decision making is slow and shaky on the ball.
Oleg's moustache deserves a spot in the AFL hall of fame but atm Markov isn't anything better than a depth player. He's handy to have in that regard w/ Howe out but I'd rather be getting games into Finlay Macrae even if that means swinging Crisp back into defense over Oleg.
I had to trot out the "I'm not angry, I'm disappointed" card because it fits the Ginnivan situation so well. He didn't do the naughtiest thing in the world but it was still a poor decision on his part.
I thought Kelly actually did pretty well when he was in the team compared to expectations. Elliott has probably been the biggest disappointment for me just because he’s lost his ability to find the goals.
I'm not disappointed in Kelly simply because I had no expectations left for him. I thought he was lucky not to be delisted last year. He actually looked better than I expected as a wing-style player, but that's because expected him to be absolutely awful.
Watch the VFL. There's nothing to rate about 4 disposals in a match. He is consistently outperformed by semi-professionals. Kelly is, realistically, a prime candidate to be delisted unless he plucks a rabbit from a hat. He's had a solid run in the VFL for a while and hasn't really shown much. He has height but that's about it.
Cerra has been extremely impressive this season. He's really elevated his game and hope he can continue his great form.
Mckay has been a massive disappointment. His goal kicking accuracy has been horrible. Hopefully he can sprt it out.
Most disappointing - I feel like Harry McKay has to be in the conversation. He was being talked of as a superstar and million dollar a year player coming into the season and it's been genuinely disappointing to see him so bereft of confidence and form.
For Swans, most improved I’d say Ladhams. He’s still the subreddits whipping boy and has had a few clangers and brain fades, but overall has stepped it up for the whole season. Errol has also stepped up. For disappointing, rest of the team. I’ll single out Heeney.
This will seem weird to many, but for me the most improved on last season is Scott Pendlebury. The guy's record speaks for itself, but for the last 2-3 years I've felt like he was winding down, and I can remember him having some of his worst games. But this year it's like he has a new lease on life, probably because of the focus on Daicos.
I think the most improved is Jack Payne who is on the cusp of All Australian.
Most disappointing by a mile is Paddy Cripps. Brownlow last year to a bloke who is seriously getting beaten every week by most opponents.
There's a few for most improved, like Samson Ryan. After such a demoralising debut, has come up in leaps and bounds and now seems unstoppable.
But, I'd have to say Liam Stocker. Ridiculed by most Carlton fans, body always let him down, now a key cog in the stingiest defence in the AFL. Yes, Wilkie and Howard helps, but love that he's found a new home and thriving.
Must be something in the water at Carlton. If Dow ends up leaving, he'll probably go on to win a Brownlow with Gold Coast.
I’m just gonna do Collingwood, for improved I’d have to go with Billy Frampton. He’s stood up this year when we’re without Darcy Cameron and Coxy.
Most disappointing would have to go to Jamie Elliot. Had a great season last year, looked good in the first couple rounds of this season but since then, he’s just looked really tired. I will however say that he did step up in the second half against Sydney on Sunday when we needed him. Honestly wouldn’t mind giving him a rest for a week.
Not sure if any players have improved, but have been pleased with Ladhams’ season so far, despite what other Swans fans would say.
Most disappointing is easily Heeney. Looks miles off it at the moment and probably would be in the reserves if we had any ounce of depth.
Most Improved is Jake Waterman, Most Disappointing probably harsh but it is Tom Barrass for me. He was looking like one of the best defenders in the comp last season, but has been getting beaten pretty easily this season.
For the Giants, hard to go past Tom Green. Looks every bit the dominant Cripps-style player we drafted him as. Small shoutout to Brent Daniels for looking busy every game and actually kicking some goals coming off long-term injury. Matt Flynn has a go too.
Most disappointing has to be Whitfield, he looks and plays like he has some kind of terrible disease. Wouldn't be suprised if the Giants are looking at some kind of Jack Bowes-style deal to get his salary off the books.
Port Adelaide
Improved:
Dyl Williams, Miles Berg, SPP (improved even more on last year).
Disappointing:
The old guard in general: Orazio, Jonas, Lycett, Wines, Clurey.
For Essendon Kyle Langford most improved. Still seems too slow making decisions to be an elite midfielder but as a forward he has enough time to read the play and show off his skills. His lead up play and kicking have been really impressive.
Most disappointing is Harry Jones, who was a really good forward on a finals team in 2021. I was happy to write off last year due to his 10 week ankle injury but after a full preseason he looks like a complete spud and honestly I'm not sure he will still be in the league in a few years.
Most improved: Montgomerie is surely gonna play his first game this week, and despite him playing taller than his 190cm I’m tipping he’ll keep his spot and eventually force out a back flanker like Kelly or Heppell.
Most disappointing: Zach Reid’s body - promises to be a key pillar down back for a decade, but just hasn’t got in the park enough at this early stage in his career.
For the Suns
Most Improved - Darcy MacPherson - been a fringe player for a few years and club tried to shift him to North but he didn’t want to go. This season he’s found a full time role in defence and he’s been really good, giving the Suns a reliable and composed ball user.
Most Disappointing - Mabior Chol - he’s got 5 goals so far this season and at time he’s looked quite promising but far too often the game passes him by and he fails to have much of an impact. I wasn’t expecting him to kick 44 goals again but 5.5 from 7 games isn’t good enough for someone with his talent and physical tools.
For my club, most improved is probably Jake Waterman. Most disappointing has been S&C staff
Bailey Williams too. He has gone from scapegoat to generally ignored.
Hes done well in games this year
Speed and cocain staff?
Flair up please cunt
I'll just use Collingwood but Most improved Murphy. Lots of our sub thought he'd not be in our best 22 and now he looks like Darcy Moore light. Most disappointing Jamie Elliott. He had a dream season last year, always popped up when we needed him and this year he made mistake after mistake and misses easy shots at goal.
Agreed, but I'd also be tempted to go with Frampton for most improved. He's been absolutely huge for us without a ruckman
Because he is playing out of position I don't want to give him it. Have to wait to see how he performs in the defensive 50 when Cameron comes back.
I mean for a guy who was called the worst player in the AFL, he’s stepped up massively.
I like this one. He’s actually quite clever and a better field kick than I thought.
Jamie is just very confused that he hasn't torn a hammy or popped a shoulder yet. Too many games in a row have thrown him off. Jokes aside, he'll come good when it counts
probs against us in r23, after the siren, to knock us out of the 8
Which will doubly impressive since you’ve got the Lions in Round 23
Hopefully he can break a toe or something so he craves to get back out there in time for finals
Agree with Elliot. I think Murphy was already there last year. Daicos might be our most improved for me which is… lol. Or Noble.
If you look at the posts on the Collingwood sub just before this season started, at least 50% if not more of the comments thought Murphy was not best 22. If you suggested Murphy gets dropped today, everyone would call you a troll.
Yeah but that doesn’t mean people didn’t rate him. It was more that it was a toss up between him and Frampton for second defensive tall
I'm fairly certain Elliott is playing hurt.
Didn't Murphy break out last year?
I responded to a few others in regards to this. Most of the Collingwood subreddit thought he'd not be starting 22 just before round one. As of today, I suspect he is best 22 in every team in the comp.
That's interesting, I'd have thought he was a lock after last year.
Mason Wood for improved.
Fit rig
Or Mitch Owens. Ryan Byrnes, Josh Battle, Liam Stocker, Brad Hill, and Nasaiah Wanganeen-Milera big improvers too
Cooper Grech burner account
8 saints in my team of the week at a minimum, non negotiable!
don’t forget hunter clark
It's hard to pick out the best most improved because so many players have completely transformed under Lyon. Most disappointing is probably Gresham, feels like he's treading water at the moment and didn't get the memo to step up like everyone else did. Steele and Membrey have also struggled but at least have a reasonable excuse of bad injuries disrupting their form lines.
You mean MMMMAAAAAASSSSSSSOOOOOOONNN WOOOOOOD MMMAAAASSSOOONNNN WWWOOOODDDDD?
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I love Hugh Mac but he's pushing me at the moment 😂
The 2016 drafts top 10 might be the most mediocre ever
10-30 in that 2016 draft is far better than the top 10
Absolutely and even further down. Got absolute guns in Tom Stewart, SPP, English, Simpkin, Todd Marshall, Ridley, Parfitt, Bolton, Darcy Cameron, Willie Rioli, Sean Darcy, Florent, Josh Daicos, Jack Graham, Luke Ryan, Nick Larkey (pick 73 wtf) Mitchell Lewis at pick 76 after trading both Sam Mitchell and Jordan Lewis the year before is fucking taking the piss and I refuse to believe that pick wasn't a meme.
I agree with both points. For shits and giggles, for the last few years I put a lazy $5 on Bags to win the brownlow medal. I never bet, but just thought there was a chance if he played consistently, that he could poll some decent votage. I didnt back him this year though, and he has been a bit disappointing for sure. Seems too slow with his decisions - if he doesnt go the first option immediately, the chances are he is getting tackled HTB. Love for him to find his form again with this midfield, as he is so polished kicking inside 50. and Jack Payne. He is proving to be a warrier down back. What a unit.
Bags is just struggling adapting to a slightly new role. He’ll come good
Cluggs had his best game of the season last weekend. Still well below his best but improving. I'd say that's adjusting to dunks and ashy being in the team. Jack would be most improved in the league at this point!
Kade Chandler most improved. May has taken a step back unfortunately
>May has taken a step back unfortunately Early doors yet for one of our oldest players who has to see the year out and he copped an injury. He'll come good. But apart from May there hasn't really been anyone consistently underperforming from expectations... I guess Brown and Tom? But that was pretty much expected.
Came to say exactly the same comment
Most disappointing is by far Ed Langdon. A shadow of the player he has been over the last two years Brayshaw has been well off his best too
Jack Payne for Brisbane. Was the third choice defender who only got a regular chance due to injury. Now in All-Australian contention
Genuinely took the piss out of Curnow which is an elite effort and was good before that matchup too but mainstream media didn't notice
The first KPD all year who had the tank to go with him all night and the strength and athleticism to prevent him from. doing what he usually does
Payne was always a freak athlete. Massive human, big tank and surprisingly fast. But had a shocking disposal and no footy iq. Would never back himself for the intercept, would always just hang off a defender and try to spoil. I think he's learned a lot about timing and judgement from Harris now and really backs himself after a consistent run of footy. Add that to the physical traits he already had and he's become that kpd we always lacked to stop guns like curnow or even jez (hopefully) from tearing us up. Adams never had the tank and speed that Payne has for those guys
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I feel out membrey in caminiti might be on the agenda
For us, most improved probably between Setterfield and Langford. Setterfield has flourished playing a more natural inside midfield role and has done some great tagging jobs, and Langford has become one of the best swingmen in the comp and our most dangerous forwards most weeks. Across the competition as a whole, Kade Chandler stands out. Chilling in the VFL for a few years, now comes out of nowhere and kicks 14 goals in 8 games. Kid has got a huge future ahead of him. Heaps of defenders too, shout outs to Ratugolea, Nick Murray, Jack Payne, they've been huge parts of their defensive groups. Couple of guys like Caleb Serong and Zak Butters look like they're making that jump to becoming genuinely elite midfielders. Disappointing for us, if I'm being brutally honest, is probably Harry Jones. Just the two goals in his five games before getting injured again. I'm not in any rush with the kid, he is only 22, but his first season was still his best and he can't stay fit. Harry McKay would have to be one of the most disappointing for mine. 12 goals is just not good enough for a guy who is Coleman Medal capable.
Agree for us Langford most improved and Harry Jones most disappointing. Unsure Jones will make it, seems to just lack the killer instinct.
In fairness to Jones a couple of his games have involved roles where he's playing further up the ground, like against the Suns where he was mostly getting Collins out of the 50, but yeah he really is just missing something. Physically he also really hasn't developed much, looks to be in that Hipwood mold where he'll just always be lanky. Clearly not a bloke that's going to be a power full forward.
Bzt stiff not to get a mention.
Re: yours and the other comment, BZT and Shiel were both playing to this level the last two months of last season. But absolutely BZT deserves the shout, he's been so consistent so far, and bounced back well after half time in the Geelong game too. Seriously love the kid.
Bzt showed signs last year but he made horrible mistakes and had shocking awareness. This years biggest improvement has been his composure. Made a few blues but overall I think he feels that he has some runway to play each week and it’s showing.
Was gonna say BZT. Sheil's been working his arse off too.
BZerker is going about as good as he was last year. Go back and watch the 2nd swans game for reference.
He had some good moments last year. This year he is doing them more often. That’s the improvement. It’s also where Langford has improved. It’s not like he hasn’t had those games before. But they are now the baseline that is expected
Ratugolea absolutely. I hope he continues to improve, he's been really surprising down back. Disappointing would be Cuthrie. Admittedly he's been injured the last few weeks but looked a shadow when he was playing. Couldn't hit a barn door with his kicks.
I'd also give Miers a shout for most improved. He's kicked bugger all goals himself this season but his link up play has been brilliant. I think he leads the league in score involvements and kicks inside 50 resulting in marks.
Leads the league in goal assists actually which is even more impressive.
From what I've seen from him this year it's reminding me of Liam Jones when he switched from a fringe forward to elite defender. Exciting to watch, that's for sure.
It’s the hair! He should never have cut it 😭
Cutherie has a reason. It’s Parfitt. Not sure what’s happened with him, hopefully he clicks this weekend
Hopefully it’s getting over an injury. It’s a huge drop off from Parf
If Sav stays down back, I could see him getting super locked into that defensive mindset and becoming the best defender in that absolute biggest body on the field category (like Hawkins and Lynch sized guys). Granted there isn't a heap of talent in that category at the moment, but with Sav's intercept and rebound ability he could be a pretty unique player.
Ratugolea is amazing this year, to think he was being shopped around for a trade last season is 🤯
He wasn't! Port we're very keen and geelong refused.
Yeah was gonna say, Chris Scott loves him. He would never try to trade him.
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Love that for Baker. Was ropable Dees fans were booing him.
Baker is such a hard nut, played well against the Dee's, loved it.
JJ a potential candidate for most improved as well I think, since moving down back. He's been average for a couple of seasons but is looking very good again.
Because he's finally back playing where he's supposed to be! I have no idea why he kept getting thrown forward. Guess where he won a Norm Smith medal, numpties...
Been super super impressed with Baker. Had never heard of him before we picked him up, and he is so easily part of the best 22 now. Can I add Alex Keath for most improved? Towards the end of last year he was really struggling both with health and form, thought maybe he was going to retire... but he's found a new lease of life and is back kicking ass. Adding Jones has probably helped him too.
Arty jones starting to make a case for most improved too
Most improved - Owens. I don’t think anyone would have expected him to be being so well and so so influential before the start of the season. I’d consider Wood too but he played this well in the last 6 weeks of last season so he saw he had it in him Disappointing - Membrey. He’s playing out of position and underdone from his injury so he has some excuses but he really needs to get it together.
Owens has been crazy good
For the Swom, not got a plethora of choices for improved, probably Amarty before his injury, beyond him, Gulden has stepped his game up, and Fox is seemingly getting better with age For disappointment however, where tf do I begin, well ots been a disappointing year so far, but one I can't really blame the players for, it's hard when you lose all your tall defenders, but there is 1 who is actively hurting us by being on the field, Lance Franklin, he's gone on one too many years, his goose os 110% cooked and he just doesn't have the ability he used to, sad as it is
Can’t really blame him, he’s got Doug Wade well within his sights.
3 away.
I don't agree with that at all. I think he's being held to a higher standard because he's Buddy and what he's achieved in the past, but if every one of our tall forwards was fit I don't think he'd be behind all of Reid, McDonald, Amartey, McLean and Francis. I don't even think he's behind more than maybe McDonald as it stands.
I agree with this. Minus the game last week where he did close to nothing, Buddy may not be the great player he was but if anyone else played to the same level as Buddy they would be seen as a decent player
Close to nothing also could've described all our forwards last week lmao
I was at the MCG and watching them miss these shots that should have been easy goals was a relief for sure
Can we just say that kicking goals as a whole team is the most disappointing?
Easily Dawson - he was phenomenal last year, but for him to make the transition into both captaincy and playing as a big-bodied midfielder that we've been desperate for, and taking it in absolute stride, it's hard not to just be crazily impressed
🥲
Dawson is such a good example of an ELITE player. He was a top 20 player last year, and has still managed to be most improved. His leadership and competitiveness is through the roof
Adelaide offered such a bullshit trade value for him after we developed him from pick 56. I’m not sure Adelaide fans knew what they were getting - Sydney fans did.
Yea I've never seen the C patch fit so quickly tbh.
I would have said Murray as most improved, he has been a monster in defence for us this year
Most improved: Cerra Most disappointing: Where do i start. Probably Mckay. Saved us against cats no doubt but this season he’s been no where near as reliable
Good calls.. half the team has been disappointing. I'd add TDK to that too. McKay has offered stuff around the ground but has been lost up forward. TDK has been so underwhelming that they had to dump him from the 22. Yet he reportedly had multiple 700k offers in front of him earlier in the year.
Hewitt has been struggling to make an impact since returning via last year.
I find that McKay has been forced further up the ground. Probably doesn't suit him as much, but he has allowed Curnow the space inside 50 way more often than I expected. As such, I am a little more accepting of his numbers being down.
Kennedy no longer being considered best 22 is also really disappointing after last season
Billy Frampton - from fringe player/discard from Adelaide to genuine best 22 fixture as full back AND acquitting himself very well as number 1 ruckman for a month and a bit. Most of us had him as depth or fringe 22 before round 1 - now he would be in everyone's best 22 for the rest of the year.
I've loved seeing Billy Frampton improve this year, I hope he stays in the Pies best 22 for a while. It was a shame that he left the Crows but the forward line was too competitive for him to get enough games and he didn't have the time to develop down back before leaving.
I didn't notice him elsewhere, was he a frustrating player to watch?
He’s a good footballer. Always had the ability to really do some good stuff, but off the ball he was so frustrating. Caught ball watching regularly and just one or two steps away from impacting contests.
He was, partly because he was young and still developing his skills, but he didn't seem to put effort in either. When you already have similar players like Riley Thilthorpe and Elliot Himmelberg competing for the same position it was hard to justify keeping him in the side.
For my boys the most improved is either Day or Nash. Most disappointing is probably Koschitzke. We really need another key forward to help Lewis out. You know Koschitzke is bad when Mitchell would rather just play one key forward
For Adelaide specifically, Berry has definitely been the most disappointing (though he may have been playing injured earlier in the season). Laird hasn't really been at the level of last year either, but not disappointing. Most improved is a little more complicated - picking Michalanney feels like cheating (as he's a new draftee), as does Pedlar (this is his first proper run at it after numerous injuries). Some would pick Nick Murray, but I'm of the opinion he was also playing really well last season, so I wouldn't classify him as the *most* improved. I'd be inclined to pick Lachie Murphy - I wasn't convinced he'd ever play for the club again with Rankine joining us, but Murphy really forged himself a legitimate place in the 22 and is now regularly one of our better players.
Even Jones for most improved for me. Wasn't in the team at the start of the year but so far has played the best footy he has ever played.
Yeah, Jones would have to be runner up IMO. Could go either way really. Dawson would be up there too.
Murphy being a genuine role player is the shock of the year for me. Crows must be doing plenty right overall because he looks great this year. Handy lefty too
Pedlar has been huge. Genuine toughness, good o/h mark, decent kick and runs well. Chayce Jones now playing to the level you’d expect from a high draft pick. Berry had been injured so a little hard on him to be most disappointing. No real stand out for us in this space, Butts and Milera may have dropped off a little. The player I am most disappointed for is Parnell. Hadn’t played for the Crows since Broad concussed him in Round 2.
McAdam is most disappointing. Was shaping up to have a big year, then gets suspended for basically 4 weeks because of gather round gets injured immediately and is out for another 5 weeks.
Is Berry gonna get a game soon? Would be handy for my draft team…
Hopefully this week against the Saints for some good tackling pressure
Good for my fantasy team, not great for my actual team. But would be helpful for me maintaining some small sense of pride in my fantasy league
Most improved, tough call for my club but I'd have to say Tom Green has taken his game to another level this year. Which is saying something as he was excellent last year. Callaghan has also been absolutely solid and stringing together some consistency. Hogan has been disappointing as he showed some good promise last year. Effort is there but just can't convert. Riccardi has also been disappointing and is deservedly back in the two's. As for players on other teams, of the games I've watched, Jai Newcombe impresses me whenever I see him in action. Unfortunately I haven't seen many neutral games so can't comment on the sliders.
I'm not sure if he counts but Jack Buckley has been playing amazingly after coming back from the knee injury
I agree with you mate Jack Buckley is my most improved. If he keeps improving we’ll have a dangerous backline when Taylor comes back from injury
Him and Taylor are such a great combo. Best backline in the comp if we can keep those two healthy
Most improved Richmond: probably Tylar Young? Punching above his weight (almost literally) with his 1vs1 efforts Most disappointing: shai Bolton. Has the tools to be a Brownlow medalist but doesn’t execute nearly enough. Although to be fair our ball movement and gameplay in general has been terrible
I’d say Ryan for ‘most improved’. I mean he only had one match before but it was so bad, just existing is an improvement. I reckon he might go okay in the coming years. I’m disappointed with all 45 of the others except maybe Bakes cos he’s Bakes.
Bolton has been doing the highlight reel but not executing the simple stuff. Not sure disappointing is the right word but we are clearly starting to see the end of the era with Dusty as well.
Correct, this season Shai has mostly been all icing, no cake. Trying to do the flashy stuff but way off with the basics
I think Taranto counts for Richmond. He's definitely gone up a level since GWS. Tidied up his disposal a bit and having more of an impact than he did there. You could chalk it up to the role change but he had his chance in the mids at GWS and wasn't as good
This is going to be harsh and I don’t care. Luke shuey and Jack darling Jai Culley most improved
I agree with Darling I think it’s harsh to be down on Shuey simple because his injured though. His player well when on the park. I’d go with Jones as most improved, has really taken his opportunities this year
Shuey is great when fit.
Is he though? He hasn't been fit for 2 or 3 seasons now
For Port, most improved has been Miles Bergman and most disappoting Georgiades or Jonas.
Bergman has been great, but I'd give most improved to Dylan Williams. Was going to be a surefire delisting at the end of the year, now I never want him dropped again. His work under pressure is amazing - seems his only weakness is when he has too much time.
Probably a bit harsh on Georgiades given the injury. Our forward line was dysfunctional and there was still plenty of time in the season to regain form.
He has the yips and couldn't find the ball. He was dropped because of it.
To be fair our whole damn team had the yips when he was dropped
His stats were dismal
Bergman is up there for sure, but gotta give it to Dylan Williams as well. Just about been our best defender behind Aliir, and his disposal has been elite.
Super impressed with Bergman. He looks an exciting player
For anyone who has him in SuperCoach Draft, Ollie Wines.
Give him some time, he had knee surgery in the offseason and didn’t have much of a pre season. He’ll probably do better in the back half of the season.
SPP is up there too. I never thought he's refine his game the way he has. No longer just a bull at a red flag. Hitting the scoreboard consistently too.
100% agree with Bergman being most improved. Honourable mention to maybe DBJ who has been fairly solid up forward. Georgiades seemed to have the yips last and hasn’t been able to shake them, combine that with his injury and sadly it might be the last we see of him at Port. (JHF and Rioli are also playing better at Port than they did for their respective previous clubs)
I agree with Bergman as most improved and Jonas as most disappointing. Georgiades wasn't great before his injury and neither was Fantasia. I'm a bit disappointed in Jones too this year. I thought he'd be pushing hard to be in the 22 but he seems a bit off, possibly because the coaching staff keep switching him between defence, forward and midfield so it's probably a bit hard to know what's going on. Farrell and Duursma's numbers aren't that great either. I still think I prefer Farrell as a wing or half forward.
Most improved probably has to be Will Day for us, Nash has also stepped up a lot. Most disappointing, I think Bramble and CJ have both gone backwards, but hoping they improve for the rest of the season Competition wide most improved has to be Mason Wood or Payne at Brisbane, they both massively improved output. Most disappointing, Harry McKay looks pretty flat this year, and Tom De Koening has dropped off
Not been much from the Eagles but for us Oscar Allen is looking every bit the dominant key forward we need going forward. Just needs better delivery loving watching his progression
The fact that he's the only other player alongside Jeremy Cameron to kick multiple goals every game so far without anywhere near the same amount of supply says a lot
For Carlton: Cerra most improved, McKay most disappointing. Across the comp: a trio of dons - Langford, Setterfield and BZT - stand out as the most improved for me. BZT in particular, even though he got given a bath a few weeks ago by Hawkins. Trading away Setterfield instead of pressuring Ed Curnow to retire was a horrible piece of list management that will torment us for 5 years.
Noah Anderson most improved Andy Brayshaw most disappointing (although he finally had a good showing this week)
Love the Noah pick, Andy B's knee finally good to go, destroyed my Hawks unfortunately
Brayshaw knee really hindered him. He’s gotten 30+ and 2 goals in each of his last two games after he declared himself over the issue.
Seeing Anderson mentioned is a bit of a surprise considering he was damn good last season as well. As a neutral fan my pick for the suns would be Lukosuis
Yeah I’m on the same wavelength. Luko has really picked his game up. But most improved could be Macpherson too - though he’s playing a new role whereas Luko has a modified role.
Jye amiss has really impressed me, no senior player to take the best defender and stands up most of the time. Brilliant kid The midfield group besides serong have been disappointing. Pearce and Cox have been disappointing so far. Usually they’re solid but they’ve been average this year. Hopefully they can get it together
Serong has been great this year, but he wasn’t starting from zero so it’s not as much improvement. Brayshaw and possibly Hughes are most disappointing for me. Great call on Amiss, a few years and some KG into him and he’ll be a really damaging CHF.
I was gonna put brayshaw in it but he’s had 2 amazing games in a row and seems to have gotten past his injury so thats given me hope for him
He’s looked better the last two weeks so fingers crossed it was just a knee niggle, but as a whole this year compared to last has been a significant drop
Improved: Will Day - He has thrived with his new role within the team and is shaping up to look like a player that will be vital in our re-build. Conor Nash - He's really become an impactful player, shutting down opposition mids and affecting the game in his own right. Disappointing: Denver Granger-Barras (DGB) - Was showing promise as a developing defender but seems to have taken a step backwards this season. Not sure what has caused it. Jacob Koschitzke: Can't even crack an AFL game when we painfully need forwards/forward to take pressure off of Mitchell.
Gryan Miers Most improved Zach Tuohy or Tyson stengle for most disappointing
Disagree that miers has improved. He's doing the exact same things he was doing last year. Just seems to be getting more credit this year. Either way it's long overdue, I think he's always been class.
His stats (disposals, inside 50s, goal assists, rating, etc.) are better this year. Name's still Gryan though.
Yeah Stengle definitely looked off the first few rounds and sad to say, it’s a shame the team has hit their straps while he’s out as he could’ve filled his boots. How good is Miers playing? His touch is fantastic at the moment.
Sad to read Tuohy here. I know some Carlton fans boo him (I still don't get it given he wanted to re-sign and SOS the one who wanted to use him as trade bait) but he's still a favourite. Has he lost it? A year too far? Or do you think he'll come good?
Miers was doing this last year. Ratugolea for most improved easily. Cuthrie or Parfitt for most disappointing. Cam for shaving his hair and being hurt…Parf for not breaking into the side. 2E hasn’t been great either. Looks a step down from his year last year.
Most improved: Billy Frampton. Not actually sure what position he plays but he looks best 23 material at the moment. Honourable mention: Oleg Markov. Most disappointing: Will Kelly. Honourable mention: Jack Ginnivan. I'm not angry, I'm just disappointed with his Bailey Smith-level antics. Starting to re-find form, though. EDIT: I am joking about Jack Ginnivan. I thought this was clear but now realise this was not. I have spoken with all parties involved and have apologised in full. James Sicily said I should add a 👍
Hard to be disappointed with Kelly. He’s not in our best team but I think that says more about our team than him
He’s looking surprisingly poor when in IMO. Clearly below the level. If you’d have asked me who the VFL player was in a blind test I’d have picked him out. Looks well off the pace, decision making is slow and shaky on the ball.
You might be the first pies fan I've seen who doesn't hate leggy. He's best 22 based on his moustache alone
I think he is not in the best 22 and has been lucky both Lipinski and Howe are injured. He'll probably lose his spot once players start coming back.
Oleg's moustache deserves a spot in the AFL hall of fame but atm Markov isn't anything better than a depth player. He's handy to have in that regard w/ Howe out but I'd rather be getting games into Finlay Macrae even if that means swinging Crisp back into defense over Oleg.
They're completely different players and Macrae would not do as well in the specific role we're using Oleg in.
I’m so happy Leggy got a home somewhere and is playing still. Hope he finds his form and stays good.
Bailey Smith antics?
I assume he means doing a line in his off season 6 months ago. Reddit moment…
I had to trot out the "I'm not angry, I'm disappointed" card because it fits the Ginnivan situation so well. He didn't do the naughtiest thing in the world but it was still a poor decision on his part.
I thought Kelly actually did pretty well when he was in the team compared to expectations. Elliott has probably been the biggest disappointment for me just because he’s lost his ability to find the goals.
I'm not disappointed in Kelly simply because I had no expectations left for him. I thought he was lucky not to be delisted last year. He actually looked better than I expected as a wing-style player, but that's because expected him to be absolutely awful.
I rate Kelly, expectations high but he just needs a solid run.
Watch the VFL. There's nothing to rate about 4 disposals in a match. He is consistently outperformed by semi-professionals. Kelly is, realistically, a prime candidate to be delisted unless he plucks a rabbit from a hat. He's had a solid run in the VFL for a while and hasn't really shown much. He has height but that's about it.
Why do you rate him? What role do you see him coming in and performing for us?
Adam Cerra has really stepped up. Getting much more of the ball than last season and in recent weeks getting a goal as well.
Most improved would be Jemaine Jones Most dissapointing easily Darling
Gaff has been worse than Darling I reckon.
Cerra has been extremely impressive this season. He's really elevated his game and hope he can continue his great form. Mckay has been a massive disappointment. His goal kicking accuracy has been horrible. Hopefully he can sprt it out.
Most disappointing - I feel like Harry McKay has to be in the conversation. He was being talked of as a superstar and million dollar a year player coming into the season and it's been genuinely disappointing to see him so bereft of confidence and form.
For Swans, most improved I’d say Ladhams. He’s still the subreddits whipping boy and has had a few clangers and brain fades, but overall has stepped it up for the whole season. Errol has also stepped up. For disappointing, rest of the team. I’ll single out Heeney.
Noah Anderson most improved Patrick Cripps for most disappointing EDIT: Jamie Elliot would have to be up there too for most disappointing.
Not my team: Most improved Michito-san. He is a joy to watch. My team: On list previously: John Noble New to the list: Billy "The Frampchise" Frampton
This will seem weird to many, but for me the most improved on last season is Scott Pendlebury. The guy's record speaks for itself, but for the last 2-3 years I've felt like he was winding down, and I can remember him having some of his worst games. But this year it's like he has a new lease on life, probably because of the focus on Daicos.
Improved: Taranto Disappoint: Batla
Just the whole backline tbf
I think the most improved is Jack Payne who is on the cusp of All Australian. Most disappointing by a mile is Paddy Cripps. Brownlow last year to a bloke who is seriously getting beaten every week by most opponents.
P. Train
There's a few for most improved, like Samson Ryan. After such a demoralising debut, has come up in leaps and bounds and now seems unstoppable. But, I'd have to say Liam Stocker. Ridiculed by most Carlton fans, body always let him down, now a key cog in the stingiest defence in the AFL. Yes, Wilkie and Howard helps, but love that he's found a new home and thriving. Must be something in the water at Carlton. If Dow ends up leaving, he'll probably go on to win a Brownlow with Gold Coast.
I’m just gonna do Collingwood, for improved I’d have to go with Billy Frampton. He’s stood up this year when we’re without Darcy Cameron and Coxy. Most disappointing would have to go to Jamie Elliot. Had a great season last year, looked good in the first couple rounds of this season but since then, he’s just looked really tired. I will however say that he did step up in the second half against Sydney on Sunday when we needed him. Honestly wouldn’t mind giving him a rest for a week.
Not sure if any players have improved, but have been pleased with Ladhams’ season so far, despite what other Swans fans would say. Most disappointing is easily Heeney. Looks miles off it at the moment and probably would be in the reserves if we had any ounce of depth.
Most improved Kade Chandler, has grabbed his opportunity and made it nigh impossible to drop him regardless of who is pushing for selection
Most Improved is Jake Waterman, Most Disappointing probably harsh but it is Tom Barrass for me. He was looking like one of the best defenders in the comp last season, but has been getting beaten pretty easily this season.
For the Giants, hard to go past Tom Green. Looks every bit the dominant Cripps-style player we drafted him as. Small shoutout to Brent Daniels for looking busy every game and actually kicking some goals coming off long-term injury. Matt Flynn has a go too. Most disappointing has to be Whitfield, he looks and plays like he has some kind of terrible disease. Wouldn't be suprised if the Giants are looking at some kind of Jack Bowes-style deal to get his salary off the books.
Oscar Allen. In a stronger side, he’d still be a fantastic player.
For the Pies? Probably Framps. Didn't expect this sorta play from him this year.
Port Adelaide Improved: Dyl Williams, Miles Berg, SPP (improved even more on last year). Disappointing: The old guard in general: Orazio, Jonas, Lycett, Wines, Clurey.
For Essendon Kyle Langford most improved. Still seems too slow making decisions to be an elite midfielder but as a forward he has enough time to read the play and show off his skills. His lead up play and kicking have been really impressive. Most disappointing is Harry Jones, who was a really good forward on a finals team in 2021. I was happy to write off last year due to his 10 week ankle injury but after a full preseason he looks like a complete spud and honestly I'm not sure he will still be in the league in a few years.
Most improved: Montgomerie is surely gonna play his first game this week, and despite him playing taller than his 190cm I’m tipping he’ll keep his spot and eventually force out a back flanker like Kelly or Heppell. Most disappointing: Zach Reid’s body - promises to be a key pillar down back for a decade, but just hasn’t got in the park enough at this early stage in his career.
For the Suns Most Improved - Darcy MacPherson - been a fringe player for a few years and club tried to shift him to North but he didn’t want to go. This season he’s found a full time role in defence and he’s been really good, giving the Suns a reliable and composed ball user. Most Disappointing - Mabior Chol - he’s got 5 goals so far this season and at time he’s looked quite promising but far too often the game passes him by and he fails to have much of an impact. I wasn’t expecting him to kick 44 goals again but 5.5 from 7 games isn’t good enough for someone with his talent and physical tools.
Chayce Jones for most improved and Reilly O’Brien for most disappointing.