List Management thread (For 2022)

[Vred]

I agree with the premise of being aggressive in a tilt for the flag.

Geelong do it every year and get criticised / pegged for falling off the hill. They're still first on the ladder 10 years after the fact. I get finals are a different ball game, but they always give themselves every chance.

I'd like to see us go for it. If we're going for Lobb, don't do things in halves - try and get 2 key defenders (Jones and Hamling are good cheap options).

We need to win another flag with the likes of Bont/Macrae/Treloar in their prime.

Yep, all or bust at this point, we have 80% of the pieces, we need to finish out with some defenders, another fwd/ruck and go as hard as possible, time is now, window is open, put 22 down to GF heartbreak, but god we better come out next year firing all guns from the first bounce.

[Axe Man]

4! Fmd. These contract lengths are getting ridiculous. I mean we still have Stef Martin ffs.

I find it hard to believe we would give 4 years to a player who will be 30 before the start of next season. Keath got 3 years + 1 for meeting a contract trigger, but he was 2 years younger than Lobb will be when we traded for him. Surely 3 years would be sufficient?

[The Bulldogs Bite]

I find it hard to believe we would give 4 years to a player who will be 30 before the start of next season. Keath got 3 years + 1 for meeting a contract trigger, but he was 2 years younger than Lobb will be when we traded for him. Surely 3 years would be sufficient?

4 is excessive but sometimes you've got to pay to play.

If they are identifying Lobb as a crucial need, then as per above posts re: chasing a flag, do it.

If all we do is get Lobb on 4 years, then I'll be the first to call it out as ridiculous but if it's the first piece of the jigsaw (the others primarily being a hunt for defenders) I'll live with the price we have to pay.

We need to win now.

[comrade]

I wouldn’t begrudge us at all if we went balls to the wall this off season for a proper tilt at the flag and it didn’t work. I’d rather try than sit on our hands when we know we have pieces missing.

Send a message to the playing group: now or never.

[Grantysghost]

4 is excessive but sometimes you've got to pay to play.

If they are identifying Lobb as a crucial need, then as per above posts re: chasing a flag, do it.

If all we do is get Lobb on 4 years, then I'll be the first to call it out as ridiculous but if it's the first piece of the jigsaw (the others primarily being a hunt for defenders) I'll live with the price we have to pay.

We need to win now.

We probably will want to win now in four years too. I just don't want a dodgy old Lobb lurking around taking a big chunk of cap when we will have Naughton, Marra, Darcy, English, Smith in some peak time and Bont, Macrae, Dunks etc still around.

I'd like to play hard ball on the 3 years.

[GVGjr]

I wouldn’t begrudge us at all if we went balls to the wall this off season for a proper tilt at the flag and it didn’t work. I’d rather try than sit on our hands when we know we have pieces missing.

Send a message to the playing group: now or never.

I think there are 3 models clubs tend to structure their approach to the trade draft period and a couple of hybrid versions of something in between as well.
Going chips in on topping up and positioning yourself for a genuine crack at it is the classic high risk and high reward approach.
For a list like ours if we were to get it right then you are as good as a top 2 side and a great chance to win it.

Assessing the list correctly at the end of the season and making sure you have the footy support team around it is the key.

[MrMahatma]

I think there are 3 models clubs tend to structure their approach to the trade draft period and a couple of hybrid versions of something in between as well.
Going chips in on topping up and positioning yourself for a genuine crack at it is the classic high risk and high reward approach.
For a list like ours if we were to get it right then you are as good as a top 2 side and a great chance to win it.

Assessing the list correctly at the end of the season and making sure you have the footy support team around it is the key.

I mean, are we much more than a "Brian Lake to Hawks" trade away from being in the mix again? Maybe we need 2 of those trades.

[Mantis]

I mean, are we much more than a "Brian Lake to Hawks" trade away from being in the mix again? Maybe we need 2 of those trades.

Just the one... we need a defender who can win the ball back and with a little more defensive application and somehow keeping our best team on the park more regularly we can bounce back pretty quickly.

[Mofra]

I mean, are we much more than a "Brian Lake to Hawks" trade away from being in the mix again? Maybe we need 2 of those trades.
Reports tonight of Jones meeting Granty in Williamstown.

Then we target Caleb Graham. Really tough ask to get him out of Queensland but he's still out of contract, he's tough, can mark and (Bevo would love this) even run through the ruck last year when their first couple of options were injured.
195cm but he plays tall and is solid already, still to turn 22 year old so he's a long term solution as well.

[bornadog]

Reports tonight of Jones meeting Granty in Williamstown.

Then we target Caleb Graham. Really tough ask to get him out of Queensland but he's still out of contract, he's tough, can mark and (Bevo would love this) even run through the ruck last year when their first couple of options were injured.
195cm but he plays tall and is solid already, still to turn 22 year old so he's a long term solution as well.

Sounds good Moff

[jeemak]

Sounds good Moff

Is he tall enough for you?

[Happy Days]

You know who else is out of contract? Paddy McCartin. Just saying.

[MrMahatma]

Jeremy McGovern could be our Lake trade.

[Vred]

Jeremy McGovern could be our Lake trade.

As long as the Weagles are willing to cop 800k a year of his salary...

[MrMahatma]

As long as the Weagles are willing to cop 800k a year of his salary...

Maybe. Also, why do you care what we pay him?

I dare say Power knows how to manage the cap.

[Vred]

Maybe. Also, why do you care what we pay him?

I dare say Power knows how to manage the cap.

1. Never want to see us in a Collingwood type situation
2. Freeing up money for Naughton
3. I can't wrap my head around Weagles paying him close to a mill a year at his age and the rate he gets injured

[bornadog]

1. Never want to see us in a Collingwood type situation
2. Freeing up money for Naughton
3. I can't wrap my head around Weagles paying him close to a mill a year at his age and the rate he gets injured

Big No for McGovern from me

[bornadog]

Is he tall enough for you?

Can he play on the gorillas?

[westbulldog]

We need a KPD or 2 far more than we need Lobb.

[GVGjr]

We need a KPD or 2 far more than we need Lobb.

I think one experienced KPD would balance things for us but perhaps we also need to draft one as well so that hopefully in a couple of years we don't have the same problem.

Jones, Keath, Gardner, O'Brien and Khamis with an emerging key defender drafted this year should give us enough depth for 2023.
Gardner can play on a variety of opponents and we might even be able to provide Keath with a week off every now and then.

Finding a smaller defender who can actually defend or lock onto an opposition forward becomes the next challenge for us to address.

[SquirrelGrip]

I think one experienced KPD would balance things for us but perhaps we also need to draft one as well so that hopefully in a couple of years we don't have the same problem.

Jones, Keath, Gardner, O'Brien and Khamis with an emerging key defender drafted this year should give us enough depth for 2023.
Gardner can play on a variety of opponents and we might even be able to provide Keath with a week off every now and then.

Finding a smaller defender who can actually defend or lock onto an opposition forward becomes the next challenge for us to address.

I'd also like to draft a young KPD as well to develop for a few years so he's ready to go when Jones & Keath finish up. I feel Darcy is ultimately going to be forward/ruck.

FWIW I think Laith could be that smaller defender you are talking about. That player needs pace as a key attribute to play on the Charlie Camerons of the league.

[Bullies]

Big No for McGovern from me And the same with Hamling - 2 games in 3 years. Nope. Would rather us get Liam Jones and fill the next spot with a young defender who we can take our time with in the 2's. You know someone like a Lewis Young.

[Bullies]

I think one experienced KPD would balance things for us but perhaps we also need to draft one as well so that hopefully in a couple of years we don't have the same problem.

Jones, Keath, Gardner, O'Brien and Khamis with an emerging key defender drafted this year should give us enough depth for 2023.
Gardner can play on a variety of opponents and we might even be able to provide Keath with a week off every now and then.

Finding a smaller defender who can actually defend or lock onto an opposition forward becomes the next challenge for us to address. Small lockdown defender has been an issue with Doc out.

[azabob]

I think one experienced KPD would balance things for us but perhaps we also need to draft one as well so that hopefully in a couple of years we don't have the same problem.

Jones, Keath, Gardner, O'Brien and Khamis with an emerging key defender drafted this year should give us enough depth for 2023.
Gardner can play on a variety of opponents and we might even be able to provide Keath with a week off every now and then.

Finding a smaller defender who can actually defend or lock onto an opposition forward becomes the next challenge for us to address.

Once we fix our KPD I don't see why Richards couldn't become this player?

[GVGjr]

Once we fix our KPD I don't see why Richards couldn't become this player?

Good point. I'd prefer him be a more attacking player but he might have to learn that more lock down skill.

[Happy Days]

There has to be a better option than 32 year old, year out of the game, wasn’t really ever that great anyway, unvaccinated Liam Jones. If there’s not we aren’t trying hard enough.

[GVGjr]

There has to be a better option than 32 year old, year out of the game, wasn’t really ever that great anyway, unvaccinated Liam Jones. If there’s not we aren’t trying hard enough.

It's a fair observation. He's become a better player in the eyes on many while he's been away from the game.
I guess the real appeal is that we wouldn't have to trade for him.

[soupman]

There has to be a better option than 32 year old, year out of the game, wasn’t really ever that great anyway, unvaccinated Liam Jones. If there’s not we aren’t trying hard enough.

I too am unexcited.

To me it feels like the Stefan Martin recruitment, leaving your project to the night before and just putting together the minimum you need to get a pass.

Sure Jones will theoretically be addressing our needs on paper, but how many here really believe he'll make a real difference and best case scenario he will only plug the gap for maybe 2 years?

[azabob]

Good point. I'd prefer him be a more attacking player but he might have to learn that more lock down skill.

I think Richards could lock down. He has pace, good overhead and seems to be able to actually defend one on one.

No reason he can't also be attacking to completement Daniel and Dale who are already very attacking.

[Grantysghost]

There has to be a better option than 32 year old, year out of the game, wasn’t really ever that great anyway, unvaccinated Liam Jones. If there’s not we aren’t trying hard enough.

I think it's a no brainer.

He will be cheap as and it's better than having guys on your list that you've got hundreds of.

Don't think it's the same as Martin he was already cooked.

I think MJP was wise in that instance.

[mjp]

I think it's a no brainer.

He will be cheap as and it's better than having guys on your list that you've got hundreds of.

Don't think it's the same as Martin he was already cooked.

I think MJP was wise in that instance.

I'm wise again. No to Jones.

[hujsh]

I'm wise again. No to Jones.

Live by the MJP, die by the MJP

[Grantysghost]

I'm wise again. No to Jones.

Even a broken clock is right twice a day right ! ;)

Would you prefer Lachie Sullivan?

[mjp]

Even a broken clock is right twice a day right ! ;)

Would you prefer Lachie Sullivan?

Umm - I've only seen Sullivan play on TV and I thought he was a mid?

Don't recruit old people. Jones is old. Don't recruit old people who haven't played in > 12-months (it's a hard, physical game and the TRAINING alone will break most bodies).

Should we have tried Jones as a defender. Probably. We didn't. Carlton did. He seemed OK but somehow despite having him and Weitering their defence still sucked - but no-one cared because that seemed the least of their problems since they were losing every week. I don't want to lose every week.

By the way, I would not have recruited O'Brien either and said that at the time. Moneyball is a great strategy when the player is the RIGHT player. Ask 3x Hawks supporters about the OBrien trade and every one of them would laugh...

There are no 'stop gap' solutions. Unfortunately our sport doesn't work that way.

[Grantysghost]

Umm - I've only seen Sullivan play on TV and I thought he was a mid?

Don't recruit old people. Jones is old. Don't recruit old people who haven't played in > 12-months (it's a hard, physical game and the TRAINING alone will break most bodies).

Should we have tried Jones as a defender. Probably. We didn't. Carlton did. He seemed OK but somehow despite having him and Weitering their defence still sucked - but no-one cared because that seemed the least of their problems since they were losing every week. I don't want to lose every week.

By the way, I would not have recruited O'Brien either and said that at the time. Moneyball is a great strategy when the player is the RIGHT player. Ask 3x Hawks supporters about the OBrien trade and every one of them would laugh...

There are no 'stop gap' solutions. Unfortunately our sport doesn't work that way.

Stop making sense.

My comparison was having someone like Sullivan on the list (not an area of need) v taking a risk on a Jones for little cost. Maybe even as a rookie.

I don't see it as a bad move.

O'Brien I'm with you there but again he's more an area of need so I can cop it over a McComb for eg.

Are we using a stats based strategy? (moneyball)

As always you make an interesting argument.

[mjp]

Stop making sense.

My comparison was having someone like Sullivan on the list (not an area of need) v taking a risk on a Jones for little cost. Maybe even as a rookie.

I don't see it as a bad move.


Yeah, but I think there's more to recruiting Jones than just having a number on the list. He is going to expect to play, and if he doesn't that will be a disruption. And I am unsure why it is a Jones vs Sullivan type conversation - we should have a profile for our list in terms of rucks, key backs, small backs, running backs, outside mids, inside mids, utility mids, medium forwards, small forwards and key forwards. Depending on where we are at, we should recruit players to fill the gaps either now (if the gaps are immediate) or in 2-3 years (if the gaps are identified as being needed to be addressed in that timeframe - retirements etc). I am sure we do this.

I am sort of in the boat where getting in a player who we know is either:

a/. Average or replacement level
b/. Declining
c/. Excess to requirements (position based)

...well, we shouldn't recruit them.

I didn't like the Martin choice as he was in decline and consistently injured. I didn't like the O'Brien choice because he was in and out of the Hawks side and whenever players 'like that' change clubs, their new club quickly finds out why...primarily because their best is good enough but they aren't at 'their best' consistently enough. The excess to requirements thing was my take on Treloar and whilst I loved him (and still do) as a player I just didn't get how he would help us as there is only one footy and 4-5 inside mid spots to go around.




O'Brien I'm with you there but again he's more an area of need so I can cop it over a McComb for eg.

Are we using a stats based strategy? (moneyball)


O'Brien is in an area of need but recruiting a player who is replacement level means you will always be trying to replace him. McComb - see - I kind of get the idea of recruiting a player with his attributes and seeing if he might become something...I know he is 27 or whatever but having not played top-level footy/been involved in full-time footy you never know. What DIDN'T we know about O'Brien??

I don't hate OBrien btw. He's fine. But to me we have recruited another average, undersized tall-ish defender (like Zaine!) and now we have a back up player to a player who can't get a game.

Are we following a Moneyball strategy? Well - how else can you explain the decisions to recruit O'Brien, Martin, Treloar...even Duryea and Crozier???

[GVGjr]

Don't recruit old people. Jones is old. Don't recruit old people who haven't played in > 12-months (it's a hard, physical game and the TRAINING alone will break most bodies).



Normally I disagree with ruling a line through players just because of a birth date. If the player is still mobile and hasn't been cruelled by injuries then if they fit a need and we are comfortable with a shorter term horizon I'm more than happy for the club to consider them. You can't overdo in terms of having too many older players but it can work.

Jones is a tricky one though. He was playing some very good football before he retired in fact he was very impressive in 2021.
Then came the Covid protocols and a vaccine reluctant Liam Jones retired from the game.
The rules have changed and he appears to be interested in returning to the AFL.

I can't help but remember back to when what we saw with Crameri being out of the game for 12 months that it doesn't necessarily help a player freshen up.
Crameri trained with some of the banned players before returning to us and I believe he hired a personal trainer to help him stay fit and prepare for the following season but then the injuries started to mount up and he couldn't regain his spot with us and even after another change of club Geelong couldn't get him on the park.

Jones has been training and playing albeit at a vastly lower level but perhaps there is some food for thought that a 12 month break from the game didn't freshen up Crameri like we would be hoping it does for Jones. Would it make him more prone to injuries?

Jones fits a need for us and wouldn't cost us in terms of having to trade picks etc but is bringing in a vaccine reluctant player a good decision for us? I get the temptation but I'm not so sure it would be a great decision for the club.

[EasternWest]

There has to be a better option than 32 year old, year out of the game, wasn’t really ever that great anyway, unvaccinated Liam Jones. If there’s not we aren’t trying hard enough.

Vote 1 Happy Days.

[Scorlibo]

Sorry if this has been raised previously but thoughts on Cam Zurhaar? Out of contract at the end of the year. Could add a really hard, big body to our forward line and can play tall or small. Has kicked goals at North while starved of opportunity.

[GVGjr]

Sorry if this has been raised previously but thoughts on Cam Zurhaar? Out of contract at the end of the year. Could add a really hard, big body to our forward line and can play tall or small. Has kicked goals at North while starved of opportunity.

He's done very well but I don't think he fits our more glaring needs.

[kruder]

I just got this txt from my mother that I thought I would share...

Liam Jones to the Dogs, Jarrod Grant and Billy Gowers to follow lol

Ahh bloody Melbourne supporters.

[mjp]

I just got this txt from my mother that I thought I would share...

Liam Jones to the Dogs, Jarrod Grant and Billy Gowers to follow lol

Ahh bloody Melbourne supporters.

Now that's something to celebrate!

[Axe Man]

Liam Jones meets with Western Bulldogs as potential homecoming looms after league relaxed vax rules (https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/news/afl-liam-jones-meets-with-western-bulldogs-as-potential-homecoming-looms-after-league-relaxed-vax-rules/news-story/0859d90cc882a2a26b14a61db57274b3)

A homecoming for Liam Jones back to the Western Bulldogs is a step closer after a secret meeting at football boss Chris Grant’s Williamstown home.

The former Blue was spotted entering Grant’s house with his partner on Tuesday morning where he sat down with Dogs officials including list manager Sam Power.

Jones is in Melbourne to hold talks with a number of clubs after the AFL last week cleared the way for the vaccine-hesitant defender to play next year.

The Bulldogs desperately need to boost its tall defender stocks and there is a fairytale feel about a player who they developed for six years returning to the fold.

Jones, 31, played mainly as a forward during his 66-game stay at the Whitten Oval before moving to Carlton where his career took off when switched to defence.

He walked away from Carlton after 95 games in seven seasons last November because of the league‘s vaccine mandate.

Jones has been playing for Palm Beach Currumbin in the QAFL.

He met Essendon list manager Adrian Dodoro in Queensland last week with an eye to returning to the top level.

Carlton has ruled out redrafting Jones with the Blues likely to seek compensation from the AFL given he’s now been given the green light to return.

Jones finished eighth in Carlton’s best and fairest last year after playing 19 of a possible 22 matches.

He rated elite among key defenders for one-on-one contests and intercept marks and above average for spoils and intercept possessions.

Essendon coach Ben Rutten last week confirmed his club was doing its “due diligence” around the possible recruitment of Jones.

The Bombers’ developing young backline has been exposed this year and are undersized.

“There’s some recent shifting in some of the rules,” Rutten said when asked about Jones on Friday.

“So it’s really just part of our due diligence as a club. Moving forward we’re looking at all avenues as to how we can improve our list and improve our squads.

“All that stuff will play out as the year goes on.”

The AFL opened the door for unvaccinated players including Jones and St Kilda AFL Women’s young gun Georgia Patrikios to return to training immediately, shifting its firm vaccine ruling to “strongly encouraging” all AFL and AFLW players and industry figures to have an up to date vaccine status.

[Mofra]

I'm starting my solo Caleb Graham bandwagon.

I hope Jones isn't the only KPD were talking to

[bornadog]

I'm starting my solo Caleb Graham bandwagon.

I hope Jones isn't the only KPD were talking to

We need some young KPD for the future.

[jeemak]

Sorry if this has been raised previously but thoughts on Cam Zurhaar? Out of contract at the end of the year. Could add a really hard, big body to our forward line and can play tall or small. Has kicked goals at North while starved of opportunity.


He's done very well but I don't think he fits our more glaring needs.

I'm of the view that if you can improve your list at the right price you should improve your list at the right price.

We need an actual mid sized forward as much as we need any other type of player. So if we can get him and he is good to play and doesn't mean we need to overspend, then get him.

[Swoop]

The question is, can we get Zurhaar 'at the right price' and it's pretty clear that we couldn't and shouldn't match what other clubs could offer him.

Our priority must be a key back. As you can imagine there isn't an abundance of quality key position players on the market as they tend to be a rare breed. Port Adelaide's targeting of Aliir Aliir shows it can be done if the work is done properly.

Caleb Graham is a legitimate option and I hope the club explores that option. I'd love to return the favour on Brisbane who poached Adams from us, and consider Payne for the right price. He has the skill set to fill a specific need. I understand why we would look at Jones but would prefer if we could attract a younger more promising prospect. Is there anyone else out there that we could realistically be targeting?

[EasternWest]

We need some young KPD for right now.

Fixed that for you.

[azabob]

The question is, can we get Zurhaar 'at the right price' and it's pretty clear that we couldn't and shouldn't match what other clubs could offer him.

Our priority must be a key back. As you can imagine there isn't an abundance of quality key position players on the market as they tend to be a rare breed. Port Adelaide's targeting of Aliir Aliir shows it can be done if the work is done properly.

Caleb Graham is a legitimate option and I hope the club explores that option. I'd love to return the favour on Brisbane who poached Adams from us, and consider Payne for the right price. He has the skill set to fill a specific need. I understand why we would look at Jones but would prefer if we could attract a younger more promising prospect. Is there anyone else out there that we could realistically be targeting?

Mofra has been also suggesting Jaxon Payne for the last couple of years and by all accounts so has the club but no luck yet.

[Mofra]

Mofra has been also suggesting Jaxon Payne for the last couple of years and by all accounts so has the club but no luck yet.
Yep we chased him last year prior to him recommitting to the Lions.

Weirdly, they are linked to Logue (not the frontrunner)

[Axe Man]

Bulldogs coach opens up on ‘total coincidence’ behind defender’s return rumours (https://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/bulldogs-coach-opens-up-on-total-coincidence-behind-defenders-return-rumours/news-story/c40680afd97209a4da6855512b0aadab?fbclid=IwAR0Rgg5LRHzjToG6Xi B7IyVNDLNGpEX3OMWHJxkZMTV8BaQjLUrl8M4z5Lg)

Western Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge says his club is being “vigilant” in efforts to improve its list but wouldn’t bite on talk the club is chasing anti-vaccination defender Liam Jones.

Amid reports Bulldogs football manager Chris Grant reportedly met with Jones, who opted out of his Carlton contract for this season after refusing to be vaccinated against Covid-19, Beveridge opted for silence on Wednesday.

The AFL last week ended its compulsory vaccine mandate, leaving Jones, 31, free to return in 2023 and it’s understood Essendon is one of the clubs chasing his services.

Jones, who has been playing in Queensland with Palm Beach-Currumbin, began his career at the Bulldogs in 2010, but Beveridge said he wouldn’t comment on any players the club was chasing.

“You know Liam’s manager lives a few doors up from Chris Grant so someone’s obviously seen him walking into his manager’s place and assumed it was Granty’s place,” Beveridge said of the reported meeting.

“With any potential acquisition players, I’ll always be silent during the year just out of respect for our own playing group. Any overtures, or anything that’s in the pipeline from a list management perspective, I’m always silent on.”

But Beveridge said the Bulldogs would likely be looking for a key defender, like Jones, ahead of next season.

“Rest assured we’re quite vigilant behind the scenes in what we might be doing at the end of the year and even now, but I don’t want to be specific around needs,” he said.

“There’s a lot of commentary around where we might be able to improve our group and you’d imagine we might be thinking along similar lines.”

The Bulldogs should welcome back both star forward Aaron Naughton and key midfielder Lachie Hunter for Saturday’s showdown with Melbourne.

The pair will train on Thursday to prove their fitness after overcoming Covid and Beveridge said the week off could have benefited Naughton in particular.

“He’s played every game and you see him week to week with a bandage on his knee,” Beveridge said.

“He’s had some knocks but he’s kept coming up. Hopefully, he’s freshened up a little bit.”

[Grantysghost]

Haha Bevo and his magical spin.

Who would know anymore.

[Mofra]

Haha Bevo and his magical spin.

Who would know anymore.
Since Power has taken over we leak far less.
Both a blessing and a curse

[BornInDroopSt'54]

Grundy anyone?
Mattie Lloyd:
“The Western Bulldogs. Grundy gets Brownlow votes every time he plays the Western Bulldogs. Imagine (Marcus) Bontempelli and those guys (roving to Grundy). ‘Tim English, you can help (Aaron) Naughton forward, Brodie join Bontempelli and those guys in the midfield’ – it’d be unbelievable.”

[Mantis]

Grundy anyone?
Mattie Lloyd:
“The Western Bulldogs. Grundy gets Brownlow votes every time he plays the Western Bulldogs. Imagine (Marcus) Bontempelli and those guys (roving to Grundy). ‘Tim English, you can help (Aaron) Naughton forward, Brodie join Bontempelli and those guys in the midfield’ – it’d be unbelievable.”

Where does the money come to pay him?

We would need to off-load someone on considerable money to afford Grundy... unless Collingwood want to pay half.

And would English want to play as a ruck/ forward? Based on previous commentary it's a no.

[BornInDroopSt'54]

Where does the money come to pay him?

We would need to off-load someone on considerable money to afford Grundy... unless Collingwood want to pay half.

And would English want to play as a ruck/ forward? Based on previous commentary it's a no.

Apparently a mill a year would do it. We'd need to offload a player or two. Pandering to Tim's dictates should be kept in perspective: he can't hold the club to ransome but yes it would take a big plunge like we rarely get to do. We do not have a record of getting established greats other than Treloar.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Not sure Grundy is actually a top 5 ruck anymore.

It'd be nice, sure, but we have far more pressing needs.

[bornadog]

Not sure Grundy is actually a top 5 ruck anymore.

It'd be nice, sure, but we have far more pressing needs.

Yeah would be nice, but we can't afford him, so forget it.

[Swoop]

I don't understand the logic. We've invested so much time and effort into English that it doesn't make sense to bring in another number 1 ruckman now that he's finally matured and reaching his potential.

English's form this season prior to his concussion has indicated he's on the verge of becoming an elite ruckman whereas most signs indicate Grundy is on the opposite trajectory.

Our forward line will look different in 2023 with Bruce 12 months back from a knee reconstruction to support Naughton and an emerging Marra.

We're better off investing our money into resigning our own talent and attracting a key defender.

[jeemak]

I don't understand the logic. We've invested so much time and effort into English that it doesn't make sense to bring in another number 1 ruckman now that he's finally matured and reaching his potential.

English's form this season prior to his concussion has indicated he's on the verge of becoming an elite ruckman whereas most signs indicate Grundy is on the opposite trajectory.

Our forward line will look different in 2023 with Bruce 12 months back from a knee reconstruction to support Naughton and an emerging Marra.

We're better off investing our money into resigning our own talent and attracting a key defender.

It doesn't make sense. But, if you wanted to really go for a flag in the next couple of years maybe, just maybe, upsetting Tim English by making him play forward/ ruck and having Grundy feeding our midfield is the right thing to do.

English leaves or stays after his two year extension finishes, Darcy and Marra are then ready to go after Bruce finishes up leaving Grundy and Sweet (because he's a sick *!*!*!*! and definitely on the list still) as rucks......or we find someone else to support Grundy.

If we can afford it, on top of finding defencive cover and a mid-sized forward then I'm all for it. English will still try if made to play forward/ ruck, otherwise his next contract won't escalate.

Getting Grundy is probably the smartest thing we could do now Tim's locked away for a couple of years. As long as it's at the right price.

[Sedat]

It doesn't make sense. But, if you wanted to really go for a flag in the next couple of years maybe, just maybe, upsetting Tim English by making him play forward/ ruck and having Grundy feeding our midfield is the right thing to do.

English leaves or stays after his two year extension finishes, Darcy and Marra are then ready to go after Bruce finishes up leaving Grundy and Sweet (because he's a sick *!*!*!*! and definitely on the list still) as rucks......or we find someone else to support Grundy.

If we can afford it, on top of finding defencive cover and a mid-sized forward then I'm all for it. English will still try if made to play forward/ ruck, otherwise his next contract won't escalate.

Getting Grundy is probably the smartest thing we could do now Tim's locked away for a couple of years. As long as it's at the right price.
It's a ballsy play, a lot ballsier than my Goldy play that's for sure. I like your rationale, and it plays to challenging English to be the best asset to the team that he can possibly be.

[Before I Die]

I think taking the best Follower in the league and turning him into a forward is a silly idea. You might pick up a goal or two but you lose all the link work and defensive marking. He is an absolute gun and the suggestion is to turn him into a bit player, and likely lose him.

What is Bruce’s role for the next two years. Hopefully Naughty and Marra hold down the key spots. Hmm… maybe forward/relief ruck. What role do we see for Darcy for the next few years? Isn’t it likely it could also include some relief ruck work.

Look at what English has achieved in games earlier this year rather than what he couldn’t do two seasons ago.

Grundy is a no from me.

[Testekill]

So what do we think about Hunter? Feels like he's on the outer for both personal and form issues.

[GVGjr]

So what do we think about Hunter? Feels like he's on the outer for both personal and form issues.

Hard to say if he is on the outer, his form just isn't flash at all but how much of that was due tho his extended break from the club I don't really know.

If he still has the passion he will work through this challenging period.

[Grantysghost]

Hard to say if he is on the outer, his form just isn't flash at all but how much of that was due tho his extended break from the club I don't really know.

If he still has the passion he will work through this challenging period.

I was really surprised he came back in. Yes he racked them up but he didn't seem himself to me watching the VFL games.

[Happy Days]

https://www.afl.com.au/video/803286/footy-feed-the-moment-that-broke-dog-s-heart?videoId=803286&modal=true&type=video&publishFrom=1658458733001

So McCartin is one of Bruce’s best mates? Interesting.

[Scorlibo]

I think taking the best Follower in the league and turning him into a forward is a silly idea. You might pick up a goal or two but you lose all the link work and defensive marking. He is an absolute gun and the suggestion is to turn him into a bit player, and likely lose him.

What is Bruce’s role for the next two years. Hopefully Naughty and Marra hold down the key spots. Hmm… maybe forward/relief ruck. What role do we see for Darcy for the next few years? Isn’t it likely it could also include some relief ruck work.

Look at what English has achieved in games earlier this year rather than what he couldn’t do two seasons ago.

Grundy is a no from me.

The way he's progressing in the VFL it wouldn't be a surprise to see Sam take on this role at some point next year. With his height and stretch he'll challenge any defender, and would be the perfect foil for Tim in the ruck.

[jazzadogs]

https://www.afl.com.au/video/803286/footy-feed-the-moment-that-broke-dog-s-heart?videoId=803286&modal=true&type=video&publishFrom=1658458733001

So McCartin is one of Bruce’s best mates? Interesting.

I think you'd only get Paddy if you also got Tom.

[Happy Days]

I think you'd only get Paddy if you also got Tom.

Maybe, but I for one would like to know what would happen if you offer Paddy 4 years at $700k. Maybe if we do that it turns out he hated his stupid idiot brother the whole time.

[EasternWest]

I think you'd only get Paddy if you also got Tom.

Worth it.


Maybe, but I for one would like to know what would happen if you offer Paddy 4 years at $700k. Maybe if we do that it turns out he hated his stupid idiot brother the whole time.

Who doesn't?

[jazzadogs]

Worth it.



Who doesn't?

He has been excellent this year but still missed a game or two with concussion didn't he? I would be nervous offering a long contract given his history.

[Axe Man]

Rory Lobb has ‘informed’ Freo of trade wish as Bulldogs prepare to pounce (https://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/teams/fremantle-dockers/afl-trade-news-rumours-whispers-2022-rory-lobb-reportedly-requests-move-from-fremantle-western-bulldogs-offer/news-story/38e44ce4a462dee3507ee7a49a243163?fbclid=IwAR1AVkbJFU-vt2GGjG9X4ajUpO4700nv2gI_KAnh75Cyt_ONwjnv7S4m1lo)

Rory Lobb has reportedly informed Fremantle of his desire to be traded from the club at season’s end.

Rival clubs for months have been of the opinion that Lobb won’t be playing for the Dockers next season, despite being contracted to the club until at least the end of the 2023 season.

Lobb, who tried to be dealt back to the Giants in last year’s trade period, is said to be interested in a move back to the east coast, with the key forward seeking a three-year, $1.5 million deal.

Herald Sun journalist Jon Ralph reported on Fox Footy earlier this month Lobb would most likely land at the Western Bulldogs.

7 News Melbourne journalist Tom Browne on Monday reported that Lobb had already told the Dockers of his wish for a trade at the end of Freo’s 2022 campaign.

“It’s my understanding from speaking to a club over the weekend, they’re of the opinion that Rory Lobb has informed Fremantle of his decision to seek a trade at the end of the year,” Browne said on the Triple M Footy Podcast.

“I think Lobb will be off to the Bulldogs eventually. There’s a lot of water to pass under the bridge there, but I think he passed up on the Saints and I believe the Bulldogs will land Lobb.”

As Lobb is contracted to the end of next season, he would have to be traded in order to find a new footy home.

While the Dockers are in the hint to finish inside the top four this season, they’re also set to be one of the most active during the upcoming AFL exchange period, with the club heavily linked to off-contract Demon Luke Jackson and his teammate Angus Brayshaw. In order to land the Demons duo, Fremantle would have to clear significant cap space – a move the club is willing to do, according to Ralph.

Lobb has been crucial to Fremantle’s stunning surge up the ladder this year, booting 30 goals from 16 games in a career-best season.

“Obviously I still have that year on my contract,” Lobb told 9 News Perth earlier this month when asked about his footy future.

“I don’t like to talk about up and coming years, I usually just focus on what’s happening throughout the year and right now it’s playing really good footy and trying to make finals and finishing as high as we can to give ourselves the best chance of winning a premiership.”

Asked if he saw his long-term future at the Dockers, Lobb said: “We’ll have to see. There’s a few things we’ve been working through.

“I’ve really been enjoying my footy this year. Injury-free so far touchwood. We’ll need to see what happens at the end of the year and right now it‘s just focusing on finals.”

Dockers coach Justin Longmuir on the weekend said Lobb still had a role to play for the club over the next two seasons.

“I’m really strong on the fact that Rory has got a year to run on his contract and he is a really important player to us,” Longmuir told SEN.

“Players like Rory, they are really important because they allow you to play two rucks and that extra tall forward at the same time. So, just really important to our structure.

“Like I’ve said all along, he is contracted. I see him playing at the club next year.”

Lobb has kicked 137 goals across his 135-game career with the Giants and Dockers so far.

[G-Mo77]

I don't know, their club is top 4 about to have a finals run and he's asking for a trade. Sounds like a bit of a Me, Me, Me kind of guy. Wouldn't you just play first and then ask for a trade if you wanted it? Good for us but shitty thing to do IMO.

[Bulldog4life]

I don't know, their club is top 4 about to have a finals run and he's asking for a trade. Sounds like a bit of a Me, Me, Me kind of guy. Wouldn't you just play first and then ask for a trade if you wanted it? Good for us but shitty thing to do IMO.

Agree but it did say Rory Lobb has reportedly informed Fremantle. Maybe just a journalist getting in quickly.

[G-Mo77]

Agree but it did say Rory Lobb has reportedly informed Fremantle. Maybe just a journalist getting in quickly.

True

[Axe Man]

I don't know, their club is top 4 about to have a finals run and he's asking for a trade. Sounds like a bit of a Me, Me, Me kind of guy. Wouldn't you just play first and then ask for a trade if you wanted it? Good for us but shitty thing to do IMO.

To be fair he already asked for a trade last year and the reason for the trade is supposedly related to his partner wishing to relocate to the east coast. I'm not sure we have all the info to be judging him yet.

[kruder]

I don't know, their club is top 4 about to have a finals run and he's asking for a trade. Sounds like a bit of a Me, Me, Me kind of guy. Wouldn't you just play first and then ask for a trade if you wanted it? Good for us but shitty thing to do IMO.

He is being honest and giving them time to land Jackson its a win win. He is also playing the best footy of his career, it looks like he is maturing a little.

[Bullies]

He is being honest and giving them time to land Jackson its a win win. He is also playing the best footy of his career, it looks like he is maturing a little. He has been their best forward this year by a long way. By the sounds of things deals may be a little more advanced. I'm sure Bob will be sayng if you must go East you need to land at the WB.

[Bulldog Revolution]

I don't know, their club is top 4 about to have a finals run and he's asking for a trade. Sounds like a bit of a Me, Me, Me kind of guy. Wouldn't you just play first and then ask for a trade if you wanted it? Good for us but shitty thing to do IMO.

I think its clear he and his manager knew he was going to be pushed out to create salary cap space

I dont view it as him being selfish - IMHO hes just being a realist in a profession where he doesnt have that long remaining, and knows Jackson is their target - so his manager has been proactive. Dont get me wrong, Colin Young is also clever at leveraging players pre-agency to land them better and longer deals, but I dont see how this is on Lobb, when Freo are trying to clear his contract.

[GVGjr]

I think its clear he and his manager knew he was going to be pushed out to create salary cap space

I dont view it as him being selfish - IMHO hes just being a realist in a profession where he doesnt have that long remaining, and knows Jackson is their target - so his manager has been proactive. Dont get me wrong, Colin Young is also clever at leveraging players pre-agency to land them better and longer deals, but I dont see how this is on Lobb, when Freo are trying to clear his contract.

I agree with all that but find it hard to believe that even with Jackson heading home Freo isn't a better side by keeping Lobb.
If the numbers being mentioned are somewhat close that must be a mid tier player that Freo could squeeze out to keep Lobb.

Seems like he is gone though.

Jackson is an exciting player but I think he makes more of an impact as a ruckman than he does as a forward and this given them a lot of challenges with how they use Darcy.

[EasternWest]

I think its clear he and his manager knew he was going to be pushed out to create salary cap space

I dont view it as him being selfish - IMHO hes just being a realist in a profession where he doesnt have that long remaining, and knows Jackson is their target - so his manager has been proactive. Dont get me wrong, Colin Young is also clever at leveraging players pre-agency to land them better and longer deals, but I dont see how this is on Lobb, when Freo are trying to clear his contract.

Agree with this 100 per cent. I may have mentioned it once or twice but I have no problem with professional athletes looking out for themselves before the club.

Loyalty is nice and awesome and I celebrate it when it happens, but sometimes it won't get you your fourth or fifth house.



Jackson is an exciting player but I think he makes more of an impact as a ruckman than he does as a forward and this given them a lot of challenges with how they use Darcy.

But that's in the current setup at Melbourne. If he goes to Freo and works in tandem with Darcy and plays forward at other times, that's a scary combination.

[Bullies]

I agree with all that but find it hard to believe that even with Jackson heading home Freo isn't a better side by keeping Lobb.
If the numbers being mentioned are somewhat close that must be a mid tier player that Freo could squeeze out to keep Lobb.

Seems like he is gone though.

Jackson is an exciting player but I think he makes more of an impact as a ruckman than he does as a forward and this given them a lot of challenges with how they use Darcy. He also did try and seek a release at the end of last year if there was one available to be with his partner in Melbourne.

[hujsh]

I agree with all that but find it hard to believe that even with Jackson heading home Freo isn't a better side by keeping Lobb.
If the numbers being mentioned are somewhat close that must be a mid tier player that Freo could squeeze out to keep Lobb.

Seems like he is gone though.

Jackson is an exciting player but I think he makes more of an impact as a ruckman than he does as a forward and this given them a lot of challenges with how they use Darcy.

I think Freo are opting to keep their younger players over someone like Lobb with less time left but still enough to be of some value for another club. Between Darcy, Meek and Jackson they have enough ruck coverage and Taberner would be the main forward with one or two of the rucks down there with him.

There could be a space for Lobb as a pure forward for sure but if they need to create space in the cap it seems the best value move for them and their list going forward.

[GVGjr]

But that's in the current setup at Melbourne. If he goes to Freo and works in tandem with Darcy and plays forward at other times, that's a scary combination.

I agree he makes sides stronger but if the money being mentioned to get him back to WA is accurate it's a huge outlay for someone playing more as a forward and relief/back-up ruckman. He'll likely be getting the big dollars to be more of a supporting player.
I don't know the answer to this but is he likely to kick 40 goals a season?

[Mantis]

I think Freo are opting to keep their younger players over someone like Lobb with less time left but still enough to be of some value for another club. Between Darcy, Meek and Jackson they have enough ruck coverage and Taberner would be the main forward with one or two of the rucks down there with him.

There could be a space for Lobb as a pure forward for sure but if they need to create space in the cap it seems the best value move for them and their list going forward.

Getting rid of Lobb makes sense from a financial sense, but it leaves there forward-line very thin. Taberner goes ok, but he's 29 and never played over 17 games in a season so can't really be relied on and then it's just ruckman/ forwards with the names mentioned more rucks than forwards.

Anyway selling the farm for Jackson is Freo's concern and I hope we're sniffing around for a bargain in the fire-sale.

[GVGjr]

Getting rid of Lobb makes sense from a financial sense, but it leaves there forward-line very thin. Taberner goes ok, but he's 29 and never played over 17 games in a season so can't really be relied on and then it's just ruckman/ forwards with the names mentioned more rucks than forwards.

Anyway selling the farm for Jackson is Freo's concern and I hope we're sniffing around for a bargain in the fire-sale.

I think there could be some bargains available but our priority is still likely to be Lobb. I wonder what we might need to part with to get him.

[hujsh]

Getting rid of Lobb makes sense from a financial sense, but it leaves there forward-line very thin. Taberner goes ok, but he's 29 and never played over 17 games in a season so can't really be relied on and then it's just ruckman/ forwards with the names mentioned more rucks than forwards.

Anyway selling the farm for Jackson is Freo's concern and I hope we're sniffing around for a bargain in the fire-sale.
WHAT!?

I honestly thought he was on the right side of 25. Well as you say it's their problem if they want 3 rucks in a team.

[BornInDroopSt'54]

ATM it seems getting Lobb is seen as akin to Scomo's submarines.
Committed to it when benefit in the changing future is uncertain.
However I am a fan of him as Dog. Let Bevo work the magnets but Lobb is an experienced versatile professional ruckman who wants to come to us.

[Bulldog Revolution]

I think there could be some bargains available but our priority is still likely to be Lobb. I wonder what we might need to part with to get him.

Acres and Tucker appear to be two having a look around for greener pastures

[GVGjr]

Acres and Tucker appear to be two having a look around for greener pastures

Both good players for the right team. Acres really has performed well this season.

[Bulldog Revolution]

Both good players for the right team. Acres really has performed well this season.

Always looked a good prospect with the Saints and has been excellent this year - ready made big bodied mid/wing/half back for someone - suspect Freo will revise their contract offer and look to retain him though

Both would potentially suit North to add more experience and senior bodies

[Grantysghost]

Both good players for the right team. Acres really has performed well this season.

Acres looks really good, what are Freo thinking?

[GVGjr]

Always looked a good prospect with the Saints and has been excellent this year - ready made big bodied mid/wing/half back for someone - suspect Freo will revise their contract offer and look to retain him though

Both would potentially suit North to add more experience and senior bodies

Unless North let JHF go or get a PP they really don't have the currency to trade for established players but you're right they would be a positive for North.

[GVGjr]

Acres looks really good, what are Freo thinking?

For a team that is right in the mix for the flag, they are really keen on rejigging the playing list.

[EasternWest]

Unless North let JHF go or get a PP they really don't have the currency to trade for established players but you're right they would be a positive for North.

I think if North let JHF go the place will be razed to the ground.

[Bulldog Revolution]

For a team that is right in the mix for the flag, they are really keen on rejigging the playing list.

They seem to have hired a really good young coach in Longmuir - Ive been impressed by the way they play, but I think they know they need more than what they have to take the 'big' step

They are very keen to get Jackson and hes a great long term piece - how much other meaningful change there is around that remains to be seen, but they are being aggressive thats for sure

In the end I cant see them wanting to lose Acres

[Grantysghost]

I think if North let JHF go the place will be razed to the ground.

Yes that would be the dumbest decision ever.

[ratsmac]

Getting rid of Lobb makes sense from a financial sense, but it leaves there forward-line very thin. Taberner goes ok, but he's 29 and never played over 17 games in a season so can't really be relied on and then it's just ruckman/ forwards with the names mentioned more rucks than forwards.

Anyway selling the farm for Jackson is Freo's concern and I hope we're sniffing around for a bargain in the fire-sale.

Schache could be our bargaining chip that could suit their forward needs. I'm not sure if Schache is a free agent yet though.

[Grantysghost]

For a team that is right in the mix for the flag, they are really keen on rejigging the playing list.

They must have a long term plan despite what's happening this year.

[Grantysghost]

Schache could be our bargaining chip that could suit their forward needs. I'm not sure if Schache is a free agent yet though.

Might get a freo retro round jumper in return.

[EasternWest]

Schache could be our bargaining chip that could suit their forward needs. I'm not sure if Schache is a free agent yet though.

Nobody wants Schache. He's done.

[Bullies]

JJ may want to go back to the West. He has put off negotiations and looking at what is out there. Could be a good move for all parties.

[jeemak]

I think if North let JHF go the place will be razed to the ground.


Yes that would be the dumbest decision ever.

Might be worth trading him for something substantial now while he's healthy rather than less when he's uncontracted and possibly exposed to future injury. It'll take a miracle to keep him at Norf beyond next year.

[Vred]

''Liam Jones has also informed his QLD football club he has been playing with in 2022 that he won’t be able to see out the season because he has linked with an AFL club.
Palm Beach Currumbin QAFL coach Russell Maloney confirmed Jones addressed the playing group on Tuesday night where he said his bid to reach the AFL again had been successful.
Western Bulldogs are all but certain to land Jones''

- Mitch Cleary on 7

[hujsh]

''Liam Jones has also informed his QLD football club he has been playing with in 2022 that he won’t be able to see out the season because he has linked with an AFL club.
Palm Beach Currumbin QAFL coach Russell Maloney confirmed Jones addressed the playing group on Tuesday night where he said his bid to reach the AFL again had been successful.
Western Bulldogs are all but certain to land Jones''

- Mitch Cleary on 7

That is certainly something.

I'm pretty torn on this one. I like winning so if he helps with that it'll be nice but until I have questions on if he will still be up to it and if bringing in an unvaccinated player is a good idea.

[GVGjr]

That is certainly something.

I'm pretty torn on this one. I like winning so if he helps with that it'll be nice but until I have questions on if he will still be up to it and if bringing in an unvaccinated player is a good idea.

Same here. If he could get close to recapturing somewhere close to his 2021 form then it's a quick win but not being vaccinated is another risk.

[bornadog]

Same here. If he could get close to recapturing somewhere close to his 2021 form then it's a quick win but not being vaccinated is another risk.
The only risk for not vaccinated is to himself

[GVGjr]

The only risk for not vaccinated is to himself

Do you think it makes him more exposed to getting Covid and potentially spreading it to other players?
Could the AFL also change their mind again?

[Happy Days]

Cool. Good to see we learnt absolutely nothing from recruiting Stef Martin to fill our biggest positional need.

This sucks we suck Jones sucks.

[azabob]

Did anyone else hear the AFL hasn't actually given Jones the all clear to return to the AFL?

[azabob]

Cool. Good to see we learnt absolutely nothing from recruiting Stef Martin to fill our biggest positional need.

This sucks we suck Jones sucks.

Bro, your underselling how much this sucks. Do better next time.

[Axe Man]

PREMIERSHIP BULLDOG WEIGHS OPTIONS (https://www.afl.com.au/news/807529/out-of-contract-dogs-gun-weighs-up-future-in-form-bomber-opens-talks)

PORT Adelaide is among the clubs interested in Western Bulldogs midfielder Josh Dunkley, who has been offered a long-term deal by the Dogs.

Dunkley's future remains unclear as the end of his current deal nears, two years after he requested a trade to Essendon at the end of the 2020 season that did not go through.

The Power are understood to be among the rivals pursuing Dunkley, whose partner Tippah Dwan is a netballer at the Adelaide Thunderbirds.

But the Bulldogs are also keen to keep Dunkley at Whitten Oval, with the ball-winner having had a contract offer in front of him through this season.

The 2016 premiership player is one year away from reaching free agency, having joined the club at the 2015 NAB AFL Draft, with the Bulldogs having signed up guns Jack Macrae, Bailey Dale, Caleb Daniel and Tim English this season to new deals.

The 25-year-old has played every game this season and averaged 25 disposals, four clearances and nearly a goal a game. – Callum Twomey

[MrMahatma]

It "FEELS" more likely than not that someone's gonna get squeezed out. With Dunks & Baz up for reasonable contracts, and even West has shown he's 100% part of the future now.

Plus we absolutely need to get some GOOD support for KPD and 2nd ruck. They're unlikely to be cheap as chips options.

[Testekill]

Port Adelaide is probably the club that I'd be most willing to trade Dunkley to mostly because *!*!*!*! Essendon.

[Grantysghost]

He'd be a great get for any side.

He's a pro, can't blame him for wanting the best for his career.

[GVGjr]

PREMIERSHIP BULLDOG WEIGHS OPTIONS (https://www.afl.com.au/news/807529/out-of-contract-dogs-gun-weighs-up-future-in-form-bomber-opens-talks)

PORT Adelaide is among the clubs interested in Western Bulldogs midfielder Josh Dunkley, who has been offered a long-term deal by the Dogs.

Dunkley's future remains unclear as the end of his current deal nears, two years after he requested a trade to Essendon at the end of the 2020 season that did not go through.

The Power are understood to be among the rivals pursuing Dunkley, whose partner Tippah Dwan is a netballer at the Adelaide Thunderbirds.

But the Bulldogs are also keen to keep Dunkley at Whitten Oval, with the ball-winner having had a contract offer in front of him through this season.

The 2016 premiership player is one year away from reaching free agency, having joined the club at the 2015 NAB AFL Draft, with the Bulldogs having signed up guns Jack Macrae, Bailey Dale, Caleb Daniel and Tim English this season to new deals.

The 25-year-old has played every game this season and averaged 25 disposals, four clearances and nearly a goal a game. – Callum Twomey

If he moves to be closer to his partner then fair enough. Not sure what Port can cough up to satisfy a deal we would be looking for but their first round pick is a decent starting point.

Haven't Port already got a better version of Dunkley in Wines?

[Axe Man]

If he moves to be closer to his partner then fair enough.

Hmmm, she is from Queensland, only moved to SA this season and I doubt she has a long term deal. Could easily be elsewhere in a year or 2. I'm not sure that would be the primary reason if Dunks was to move.

[GVGjr]

Hmmm, she is from Queensland, only moved to SA this season and I doubt she has a long term deal. Could easily be elsewhere in a year or 2. I'm not sure that would be the primary reason if Dunks was to move.

Fair point, I don't know why but I'm still somewhat confident we will get him signed but if he wants to move to SA for more money then lets get the best deal in trade.

[Vred]

According to Perth radio - Bulldogs have offered Liam Jones a 3 year deal

[Grantysghost]

According to Perth radio - Bulldogs have offered Liam Jones a 3 year deal

3! What the.

That seems like insanity.

Give him 1. Go from there.

[Sedat]

That is certainly something.

I'm pretty torn on this one. I like winning so if he helps with that it'll be nice but until I have questions on if he will still be up to it and if bringing in an unvaccinated player is a good idea.
Can I ask why? This virus is ripping through absolutely everyone around the world irrespective of vax status.

Completely agree with you if state and federal govts continue to impose restrictions on the day-to-day lives of those who are not vaxxed. Not much point having a player on the list who is not allowed to travel/work. Otherwise he is an automatic upgrade on what we have and also gives us crucial depth in KPD stocks. Keath looks almost shot, which would not have been anticipated 12 months ago.

3 years is one year too many IMO. Don't blame him at all for pushing for the 3 years after he lost a year of his livelihood while still at the peak of his powers.

[Vred]

3! What the.

That seems like insanity.

Give him 1. Go from there.

Couldn't agree more, two at complete most, 3 is insanity.

[Axe Man]

3! What the.

That seems like insanity.

Give him 1. Go from there.

He rightfully wouldn't sign for 1 year, others would give him at least 2.

If it is 3 years I hope at least it is 2 years with a trigger for a third.

[Happy Days]

Three years? In a row?

This is insane.

[Grantysghost]

He rightfully wouldn't sign for 1 year, others would give him at least 2.

If it is 3 years I hope at least it is 2 years with a trigger for a third.

Really? I'm not sure he has a lot of chips in the game.

If he wants to go somewhere else for two then that's fine by me.

[Grantysghost]

Three years? In a row?

This is insane.

Has to be an April fools joke. Wait...

[EasternWest]

Can I ask why? This virus is ripping through absolutely everyone around the world irrespective of vax status.

Completely agree with you if state and federal govts continue to impose restrictions on the day-to-day lives of those who are not vaxxed. Not much point having a player on the list who is not allowed to travel/work. Otherwise he is an automatic upgrade on what we have and also gives us crucial depth in KPD stocks. Keath looks almost shot, which would not have been anticipated 12 months ago.

3 years is one year too many IMO. Don't blame him at all for pushing for the 3 years after he lost a year of his livelihood while still at the peak of his powers.

My worry isn't his vaccination status.if the AFL mandate doesn't exist then I don't care, let a thousand blossoms bloom.

My issue is that he's been out for a year front he top level and can be recapture the form he had at his best. My issue is that he's pretty old. My issue is that we've reportedly offered 3 years.

If we're in our window, then Lobb and Jones make us instantly better, and I'm ok with that, but 3 years is a long time.

[Grantysghost]

‘I obviously caught up with Jonesy’ : Bulldogs boss – RSN927

www.rsn.net.au

Western Bulldogs football boss Chris Grant has confirmed he hosted Liam Jones at his home for discussions about his future.

The Dogs are looking at the key defender, who stepped away from football due to Covid vaccination requirements, as a quick fix to their tall defensive stocks.

“I’ve got to be up front and honest … I obviously caught up with Jonesy,” Grant told RSN 927.

“You think let’s do it nice and private, a nice cup of tea together, a nice cup of coffee and then two hours later it’s been tweeted.

“It doesn’t matter what you do in Melbourne, people find you.”

Jones started his career at the Dogs, before flourishing as a defender at Carlton. He stepped away from the Blues, and has been playing in Queensland.

Liam Jones could be on his way back to the club where his career started the Western Bulldogs

Grant described the meeting as a “bit of an investigation for both of us”.

“I know he’s met with a couple of other teams as well,” Grant said.

“He feels he’d like to come back to AFL footy. The AFL are still to confirm to him and his player manager Shane Casley what that mechanism will be so it was pretty much an exploration meeting for us both.

“He’s been playing footy … it’s not at the level of the AFL or the conditioning levels of the AFL, but he’s still in pretty good nick.

“Over the the next month or so, the AFL will confirm (the mechanism) for him and we’ll wait and see what it means for us.”

Grant also spoke in positive tones about Josh Dunkley staying at the Dogs as contract negotiations continue.

“We’ve still got to work through the nuances of the contract … we’re really encouraged with what he’s had to say,” Grant said.

[Bullies]

Hmmm, she is from Queensland, only moved to SA this season and I doubt she has a long term deal. Could easily be elsewhere in a year or 2. I'm not sure that would be the primary reason if Dunks was to move. Dunks = $

[Sedat]

My worry isn't his vaccination status.if the AFL mandate doesn't exist then I don't care, let a thousand blossoms bloom.

My issue is that he's been out for a year front he top level and can be recapture the form he had at his best. My issue is that he's pretty old. My issue is that we've reportedly offered 3 years.

If we're in our window, then Lobb and Jones make us instantly better, and I'm ok with that, but 3 years is a long time.
Totally agree, 3 years feels excessive. The year out can help or hinder - if he has maintained elite fitness the year off might prolong his career at the back end, but if he has been living a more leisurely life it is a big risk. I guess that is the call that will be made by our footy dept, in particular the strength and conditioning staff.

[hujsh]

Can I ask why? This virus is ripping through absolutely everyone around the world irrespective of vax status.

Completely agree with you if state and federal govts continue to impose restrictions on the day-to-day lives of those who are not vaxxed. Not much point having a player on the list who is not allowed to travel/work. Otherwise he is an automatic upgrade on what we have and also gives us crucial depth in KPD stocks. Keath looks almost shot, which would not have been anticipated 12 months ago.

3 years is one year too many IMO. Don't blame him at all for pushing for the 3 years after he lost a year of his livelihood while still at the peak of his powers.

Part of it is the optics. I don't think it sends a great message but at the same time the vaccine has been around long enough that anyone who hasn't got it yet surely won't be swayed either way by us picking up Jones or not. Part is the risk he might be mandated off the list (though maybe there's something in the contract protecting us if that happens). Part is that he might be more likely to get infected/be more infections (I don't know what the deal is with the new strains TBH). Part is that if he gets infected he might be more likely to have it impact him severly, to the point he doesn't play again.

There's just more risk. Since he's already 31 it makes that risk vs reward calculation pretty rough.

[GVGjr]

2 years is a more fair deal for Jones and perhaps a trigger for a third could be in place.
I've mentioned it before but having 12 months off doesn't necessarily freshen up a player and we only have to look at what happened to Crameri to be reminded about it.

If Jones comes back in somewhere near his 2021 form it's a huge win for us but no so much if he recaptures 80% of it.

It's a risk and we should accept that bringing him back comes with an element of hit or miss.

[Yankee Hotel Foxtrot]

2 years is a more fair deal for Jones and perhaps a trigger for a third could be in place.
I've mentioned it before but having 12 months off doesn't necessarily freshen up a player and we only have to look at what happened to Crameri to be reminded about it.

If Jones comes back in somewhere near his 2021 form it's a huge win for us but no so much if he recaptures 80% of it.

It's a risk and we should accept that bringing him back comes with an element of hit or miss.

Which is all the more reason why I hope Jones is a cheapish insurance policy, and that we're still in the game for a serious key defender come season's end.

[Rocco Jones]

The third year seems excessive but it really depends but overall cost. We get him for nothing and then it depends on the pay and/or if the third year is a trigger.

He was still playing footy and it beats a year of injury etc. Really depends on the pay. He might have a total figure set out that he wants before retirement and in effect, we are kinda getting the third year at a really reduced price. With a financial sum, it's very hard to judge the third year.

It's a risk but a spot for 3 years + some cap space without having to giving away players or picks is worth it for mine.

[Rocco Jones]

Which is all the more reason why I hope Jones is a cheapish insurance policy, and that we're still in the game for a serious key defender come season's end.

Yep. I don't see why this should impend that. If we are going for Jones at a solution, okay that's an issue but it's a deeper list management analysis thing than just getting Jones.

[Bulldog4life]

From Fox Footy

PREMIERSHIP STAR ‘ASSESSING FREE AGENCY MARKET’

Western Bulldogs Norm Smith Medallist Jason Johannisen is weighing up his footy future, reports 7 News Melbourne.

Johannisen, who played every game for the Dogs in their 2021 Grand Final season, had an interrupted start to his 2022 campaign due to a calf injury but has featured in the past six straight games for the club.

7 News Melbourne reported on Wednesday night that Johannisen had “parked contract talks” that’d begun earlier this year until season’s end.

[Grantysghost]

The third year seems excessive but it really depends but overall cost. We get him for nothing and then it depends on the pay and/or if the third year is a trigger.

He was still playing footy and it beats a year of injury etc. Really depends on the pay. He might have a total figure set out that he wants before retirement and in effect, we are kinda getting the third year at a really reduced price. With a financial sum, it's very hard to judge the third year.

It's a risk but a spot for 3 years + some cap space without having to giving away players or picks is worth it for mine.

That's a good point. It could be he wants 750k or something and they're just working out the years to suit.

I'd still only go 1. But if it takes 2 then that's the market we are in if we want him.

Can't be a bad thing to have some more indigenous talent at the club too.

[GVGjr]

From Fox Footy

PREMIERSHIP STAR ‘ASSESSING FREE AGENCY MARKET’

Western Bulldogs Norm Smith Medallist Jason Johannisen is weighing up his footy future, reports 7 News Melbourne.

Johannisen, who played every game for the Dogs in their 2021 Grand Final season, had an interrupted start to his 2022 campaign due to a calf injury but has featured in the past six straight games for the club.

7 News Melbourne reported on Wednesday night that Johannisen had “parked contract talks” that’d begun earlier this year until season’s end.

It's going to be a tough decision from JJ to leave and for us to not put up a decent offer to keep him.
There must be a bit of a gap with what we are prepared to pay. I know it can't be easy for a player to take a cut but JJ was a good earner for a while and might have to accept a lower off than he would like.

The big thing is that we will probably need to let some players go so have some tough decisions to make.

[Topdog]

It's going to be a tough decision from JJ to leave and for us to not put up a decent offer to keep him.
There must be a bit of a gap with what we are prepared to pay. I know it can't be easy for a player to take a cut but JJ was a good earner for a while and might have to accept a lower off than he would like.

The big thing is that we will probably need to let some players go so have some tough decisions to make.

Yeah he certainly isnt a guaranteed best 22 option anymore for us so you would have to assume that its going to be a significantly reduced offer on the table.

Probably best for both parties if he moves on.

[Mofra]

Very few players go back to state league, then get back into the AFL system and don't break down.
Far fewer still do it at age 31.

3 years is insanity. 2 years is pushing it, I expect we'll have to nurse him through the second year

[Mofra]

Darcy Gardner still unsigned, RFA.

He has to be our no 1 gettable target this trade period.

Skip Jones and clear the decks, I'd pay overs for him. Keep our first rounder and take it to the draft.



Lobb + Gardner + keeping our first round pick would be an outstanding really for us

[Axe Man]

Darcy Gardner still unsigned, RFA.

He has to be our no 1 gettable target this trade period.

Skip Jones and clear the decks, I'd pay overs for him. Keep our first rounder and take it to the draft.



Lobb + Gardner + keeping our first round pick would be an outstanding really for us

At 192cm it's a hard pass from BAD. ;) Also it's Gardiner unlike ours, the misspelling will also upset BAD. Gardner & Gardiner key backs sure would get confusing.

He's from down Geelong way so he will probably end up there like they all seem to do.

[chef]

Darcy Gardner still unsigned, RFA.

He has to be our no 1 gettable target this trade period.

Skip Jones and clear the decks, I'd pay overs for him. Keep our first rounder and take it to the draft.



Lobb + Gardner + keeping our first round pick would be an outstanding really for us
Could we get Jones, Gardner and Lobb?

[GVGjr]

Darcy Gardner still unsigned, RFA.

He has to be our no 1 gettable target this trade period.

Skip Jones and clear the decks, I'd pay overs for him. Keep our first rounder and take it to the draft.


Lobb + Gardner + keeping our first round pick would be an outstanding really for us

Darcy Gardiner would be a solid addition for us and he still has a fair bit of solid football in front of him. Is he good enough though?

All the signs look like we will add Lobb to the team so if Gardiner becomes available both he and Lobb should improve us but perhaps we prefer the cheaper option of Jones.


Who's likely to go or be traded at the end of the season or who might be in the mix?
Johannisen
Butler
Wallis
Martin
Cordy
McLean
Hunter
Schache
and of course Dunkley remains unsigned.

[Mofra]

At 192cm it's a hard pass from BAD. ;) Also it's Gardiner unlike ours, the misspelling will also upset BAD. Gardner & Gardiner key backs sure would get confusing.

He's from down Geelong way so he will probably end up there like they all seem to do.
194cm, and he's quality. He can intercept which we tried to fix with TOB.

[Axe Man]

Could we get Jones, Gardner and Lobb?

Might depend on what the likes of Dunkley and JJ do, salary cap and list spaces the main issues as Jones and Gardiner won't require trades.

[Axe Man]

194cm, and he's quality. He can intercept which we tried to fix with TOB.

Not that I want to get into a height argument but officially listed as 192cm. I have never taken much notice of him but he ranks below average for intercept marks this season and career. May just be the role he plays though.

https://www.lions.com.au/players/131/darcy-gardiner

[Bulldog4life]

Darcy Gardiner would be a solid addition for us and he still has a fair bit of solid football in front of him. Is he good enough though?

All the signs look like we will add Lobb to the team so if Gardiner becomes available both he and Lobb should improve us but perhaps we prefer the cheaper option of Jones.


Who's likely to go or be traded at the end of the season or who might be in the mix?
Johannisen
Butler
Wallis
Martin
Cordy
McLean
Hunter
Schache
and of course Dunkley remains unsigned.

Hunter? What's going on there?

[GVGjr]

Could we get Jones, Gardner and Lobb?

Do you think we could find regular spots for two key defenders?

[GVGjr]

Hunter? What's going on there?

Just some of the whispers around that his manager might be putting the feelers out.

[Bulldog4life]

Just some of the whispers around that his manager might be putting the feelers out.

Ok. Hadn't heard that one.

[chef]

Do you think we could find regular spots for two key defenders?

I think we do need two decent ones personally. To me Keath is better suited to the interceptor role he did at Adelaide(though he may be a bit cooked) and I don't really rate Gardner.

We are in the wondow so if we can upgrade any positions we should be going for it. Our time is now.

[The Doctor]

Is Darcy Gardiner any better than our Gardner, or Cordy?

Sure he's a solid citizen but I doubt he makes the difference, and there will likely be a cost. He would be perfect for a club like Norf.

Who else could be on the market we can bring in who could make a difference? Logue? What if he wants to stay in Perth?

If Jones comes in then we also need to draft a good key back. That is the way to go in my view.

[GVGjr]

Is Darcy Gardiner any better than our Gardner, or Cordy?

Sure he's a solid citizen but I doubt he makes the difference, and there will likely be a cost. He would be perfect for a club like Norf.

Who else could be on the market we can bring in who could make a difference? Logue? What if he wants to stay in Perth?

If Jones comes in then we also need to draft a good key back. That is the way to go in my view.

If we were to land Jones I 100% agree we would also need to draft a genuine key defender as well.

Regarding Darcy Gardiner, he is just how you have described him, a solid player. How much of a difference that would make I'm not sure of.

[Rocco Jones]

I would only look at Darcy Gardiner if he came at minimal cost. I think others will be interested enough that he won't. If cheap, he is an upgrade on Zaine I think.

[The Doctor]

I would only look at Darcy Gardiner if he came at minimal cost. I think others will be interested enough that he won't. If cheap, he is an upgrade on Zaine I think.

then on that basis I'm keeping Zaine every day of the week. We know he will give his best and is a Bullgod. That is better than someone who might possibly be better that isn't is Bullgod.

[Rocco Jones]

then on that basis I'm keeping Zaine every day of the week. We know he will give his best and is a Bullgod. That is better than someone who might be better.

Yeah, it's a good call. Not worth it.

[Sedat]

Darcy Gardiner is a good ultra defensive stopper but he gets injured a lot. Worth a look at the right price and assuming he is physically ok.

[chef]

then on that basis I'm keeping Zaine every day of the week. We know he will give his best and is a Bullgod. That is better than someone who might possibly be better that isn't is Bullgod.

He's a much better footballer than Zaine, more like a Morris type. Not saying hes as good as Dale but he'd walk into our defence imo.

[Bullies]

Is Darcy Gardiner any better than our Gardner, or Cordy?

Sure he's a solid citizen but I doubt he makes the difference, and there will likely be a cost. He would be perfect for a club like Norf.

Who else could be on the market we can bring in who could make a difference? Logue? What if he wants to stay in Perth?

If Jones comes in then we also need to draft a good key back. That is the way to go in my view.Darcy Gardiner- NO but get Liam Jones and have Sam Darcy as our intercept defender. Will be agood way for him to learn the game and he can pinch hit in the ruck and up forward if needed.

[AshMac]

Just some of the whispers around that his manager might be putting the feelers out.

I think there is a good chance Hunter goes. Nothing more than an inkling and whispers about the rift between him and Bevo

[Bullies]

Which is all the more reason why I hope Jones is a cheapish insurance policy, and that we're still in the game for a serious key defender come season's end. Agree. I wouldn't think they would need to sell the farm to get him.

[bornadog]

At 192cm it's a hard pass from BAD. ;) Also it's Gardiner unlike ours, the misspelling will also upset BAD. Gardner & Gardiner key backs sure would get confusing.

He's from down Geelong way so he will probably end up there like they all seem to do.
thanks Axeman you are 100% right

[Sedat]

It's going to be a tough decision from JJ to leave and for us to not put up a decent offer to keep him.
There must be a bit of a gap with what we are prepared to pay. I know it can't be easy for a player to take a cut but JJ was a good earner for a while and might have to accept a lower off than he would like.

The big thing is that we will probably need to let some players go so have some tough decisions to make.
I really like JJ but if he is an unrestricted FA, it could be a win-win for player and club. A Norm Smith medallist in the top echelon of paid players at the club should net us a decent pick as compensation if he decides to move on.

[hujsh]

I'm warming to Jones if we're bringing in Cordy this week

[MrMahatma]

I think there is a good chance Hunter goes. Nothing more than an inkling and whispers about the rift between him and Bevo

Rift? Bevo’s hit on Morris was to defend Hunter. No rift.

[FrediKanoute]

Same here. If he could get close to recapturing somewhere close to his 2021 form then it's a quick win but not being vaccinated is another risk.

Vaccination doesn't really reduce your risk of catching C-19, especially the Omnicron variant which is what is raging. Prior infection doesn't really stop you getting it again. What vaccination does is lessen the impact of C-19, so in most cases making it more of a dose of the flu than full scale C-19.

He may be more susceptible, but I think its a manageable risk.

[BornInDroopSt'54]

Vaccination doesn't really reduce your risk of catching C-19, especially the Omnicron variant which is what is raging. Prior infection doesn't really stop you getting it again. What vaccination does is lessen the impact of C-19, so in most cases making it more of a dose of the flu than full scale C-19.

He may be more susceptible, but I think its a manageable risk.

Yes and some of the reactions to it are serious so Jones and club take that minor risk.

[azabob]

Rift? Bevo’s hit on Morris was to defend Hunter. No rift.

Rift or no rift a leader stands up for their people

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Jones for 2 years with a trigger for a third I can live with.

Need more reinforcements than Jones alone, however. Logue? Hamling?

Could be an interesting off season if Dunkley, Hunter and JJ all left. Not sure losing all 3 would be ideal, but it could provide us with a chance to target other players/clubs.

[Grantysghost]

If Hunter and JJ leave would only leave Libba, Macrae, Bont, Wallis from 2014 list prior to Bevo.

Only Dalhaus, Higgins, Stringer, Campbell still playing elsewhere.

[jeemak]

If Hunter and JJ leave would only leave Libba, Macrae, Bont, Wallis from 2014 list prior to Bevo.

Only Dalhaus, Higgins, Stringer, Campbell still playing elsewhere.

It's his eighth season.......nothing lasts forever. It's actually something that there's still that many players playing.

[Bullies]

Jones for 2 years with a trigger for a third I can live with.

Need more reinforcements than Jones alone, however. Logue? Hamling?

Could be an interesting off season if Dunkley, Hunter and JJ all left. Not sure losing all 3 would be ideal, but it could provide us with a chance to target other players/clubs. Hamling 2 games in 3 years is a No for me. Would rather Jones and another key defender who we can get with the picks from Dunks/JJ etc. I also think Darcy will play back as an intercept defender as well like Naughton did in his early years.

[The Underdog]

Jones for 2 years with a trigger for a third I can live with.

Need more reinforcements than Jones alone, however. Logue? Hamling?

Could be an interesting off season if Dunkley, Hunter and JJ all left. Not sure losing all 3 would be ideal, but it could provide us with a chance to target other players/clubs.

I get the Hamling obsession on one level, but if we're concerned about Jones missing one year, wouldn't we be outright negligent to bring in a 30 year old who has played 2 games since 2019?
I have no issue with the Jones thing as adding depth to a position of major need. He is short term help, but our window of opportunity is likely the next 2-3 years anyway. If it doesn't work then we lose little but money and a list spot. Also agree that we need to add a younger, possibly developing option.

[GVGjr]

I get the Hamling obsession on one level, but if we're concerned about Jones missing one year, wouldn't we be outright negligent to bring in a 30 year old who has played 2 games since 2019?
I have no issue with the Jones thing as adding depth to a position of major need. He is short term help, but our window of opportunity is likely the next 2-3 years anyway. If it doesn't work then we lose little but money and a list spot. Also agree that we need to add a younger, possibly developing option.

I'd be surprised if Hamling was interested in returning to Melbourne for a year or two or if we would be interested in him.
I think there was an article in the West a couple of weeks ago saying we should look at Hamling and a lot of the speculation is mounting from there. The main attribute that Hamling had going for him was his athleticism and from what I can tell he may have lost some of that with a couple of ankle injuries.

We would really need to be sure he is over that before considering bringing him back.

[kruder]

Sounds like Liam Jones has signed a three year deal with us according to Edmund on SEN

[GVGjr]

Sounds like Liam Jones has signed a three year deal with us according to Edmund on SEN

Interesting development if true and narrows or trade targets.

So if true do you think a Jones and lets assume Lobb bookend paring will strengthen the list to make us genuine contenders for 2023?

[The Bulldogs Bite]

So if true do you think a Jones and lets assume Lobb bookend paring will strengthen the list to make us genuine contenders for 2023?

Maybe, but I wouldn't be comfortable with those 2 recruits alone.

Some are calling for Darcy - he's 18 yo. He isn't impacting our ability to win the flag in 2023.

If Keath was in ripping form I'd be fine with Lobb and Jones, but he looks terrible. I really think we need to find 2 - Jones and somebody else. I'm fine with us trying to cherry pick some cheap options (i.e. Hamling IF he was fit and willing) but we need multiple options.

[Bulldog4life]

Interesting development if true and narrows or trade targets.

So if true do you think a Jones and lets assume Lobb bookend paring will strengthen the list to make us genuine contenders for 2023?

Yes I do. The only worry is who misses out in forward line...IF...all playing well?

[Grantysghost]

Sounds like Liam Jones has signed a three year deal with us according to Edmund on SEN

How does that work logistically? Just a free agent type arrangement? We don't have to draft him? #confused.

I don't get the 3 years either. He will be 32! before the season starts. So will be 34 in the last year.

[comrade]

Interesting development if true and narrows or trade targets.

So if true do you think a Jones and lets assume Lobb bookend paring will strengthen the list to make us genuine contenders for 2023?

Asking a lot of Jones but if he and Keath were able to recapture their 2021 form, and Lobb has a similar year to this year, we should by all rights be a top 4 side. My biggest concern with our defence is it takes time to develop cohesiveness. I’m worried we’re a year or two from it really clicking and by then, it’s too late.

[Axe Man]

How does that work logistically? Just a free agent type arrangement? We don't have to draft him? #confused.

Yes would be signed during the delisted free agency period they have every year prior to the draft (eg the cats signed Stengle last year through this).

[GVGjr]

How does that work logistically? Just a free agent type arrangement? We don't have to draft him? #confused.

Yes, we don't need to draft him he is effectively a FA signing. Carlton might put their had up for compensation but would be lucky to receive anything as he retired from them.

[Grantysghost]

Interesting development if true and narrows or trade targets.

So if true do you think a Jones and lets assume Lobb bookend paring will strengthen the list to make us genuine contenders for 2023?

Definitely does address areas of need. So on that front can't complain.

Age wise I guess is the biggest issue. We clearly think we are close to a flag with this list.

[Grantysghost]

Yes, we don't need to draft him he is effectively a FA signing. Carlton might put their had up for compensation but would be lucky to receive anything as he retired from them.

Like Mal Michael to Essendon ( i think ).

Actually they got him in the pre-season draft.

[Axe Man]

Yes, we don't need to draft him he is effectively a FA signing. Carlton might put their had up for compensation but would be lucky to receive anything as he retired from them.

Carlton have already put their hand up for such compo. The contract may not be sufficient to trigger anything anyway, maybe a third round pick at best.

[Axe Man]

Like Mal Michael to Essendon ( i think ).

Actually they got him in the pre-season draft.

I don't think the delisted free agency period existed back then and I already provided an example. :rolleyes:

[Sedat]

I don't get the 3 years either. He will be 32! before the season starts. So will be 34 in the last year.
Lake was a similar age profile when he went to ther Hawks, and he was never exactly a ripping athletic specimen - it didn't seem to slow him down in his 3rd year at the Hawks. He was definitely cooked straight after though.

I'm uncomfortable with 3 years but if we win a flag in the first year I can live with it. And really that's what this decision is about, giving us the best chance at a premiership in the next year or two. Jones isn't a panacea on his own but he is a good start in filling our key defensive holes and giving us depth in that part of the ground.

[Bulldog4life]

2 years with a trigger for a 3rd year makes sense...if that is the case.

[GVGjr]

Definitely does address areas of need. So on that front can't complain.

Age wise I guess is the biggest issue. We clearly think we are close to a flag with this list.

I'm not too fussed on the age of a player especially if it's because we think we have the list to really challenge for a top 4 spot next year. If we think Jones is fit enough and has the desire to work his backside off to help the side challenge for a flag then it should sort itself out.

The bigger picture is looking at the whole list of defenders and where adding Jones might create some challenges in the short term.
Duryea and Keath are already over 30, if Treloar is a back man now he will be 30 next year and Crozier, Hannan and O'Brien will be 29 next year.

Adding Jones won't be an issue if he is fit but it does reinforce to me that we need to draft at least one tallish defender this year.

[Axe Man]

‘Back to where it all began’: Jones wants to re-join Dogs in 2023 (https://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/afl-news-2022-liam-jones-nominates-western-bulldogs-return-threeyear-deal-contract-former-carlton-payer-anti-vaxx-latest/news-story/b5da1ee7ef70c7d6af2ede3c3f140f34?fbclid=IwAR3V10ys1QPK92NCEn He4T_th4Kxr44tjrZ-60Cltkl2e2idP3C4OwF-ouA)

Former Blues defender Liam Jones has reportedly decided he wants to re-join the Western Bulldogs, according to SEN’s Edmund.

It’s believed the Dogs, who Jones played 66 AFL games for from 2009-2014, are in talks with the 31-year old on a three-year deal.

Jones retired from the AFL last November due to the league’s vaccination mandate — a mandate which has since been lifted to open the door for his return.

“Liam Jones has made his decision,” Edmund told SEN Mornings.

“Liam Jones wants to go back to where it all began at the Western Bulldogs. Rival clubs have been informed by the Jones camp, ‘thanks, but no thanks’. The rebounding backman wants to head back to the Whitten Oval.

“This hasn’t been confirmed by the Dogs I need to stress, but I’m told this is a three-year deal for Jones that he will accept in his return to the top level.

“He’s 32 come February, Jones, so it’s a pretty big show of faith from the Bulldogs.”

It comes as the Herald Sun’s Jon Ralph reported Essendon has pulled out of the race for Jones despite meeting with the backman earlier this month.

The AFL would need to tick off Jones’ return a list given retired players who’ve agreed to a financial settlement haver to spend at least 18 months out of the game.

Channel 7 reporter Mitch Cleary earlier this week confirmed the Dogs were in the box seat for Jones, while club footy boss Chris Grant confirmed he met with the 161-gamer.

Jones played for QAFL side Palm Beach Currumbi throughout 2022 after his departure from the AFL.

Carlton could receive compensation for Jones to play on at another club next season.

[Axe Man]

At least with a 3 year contract we can get him the 34 games he needs for any potential father sons!

[GVGjr]

Lake was a similar age profile when he went to ther Hawks, and he was never exactly a ripping athletic specimen - it didn't seem to slow him down in his 3rd year at the Hawks. He was definitely cooked straight after though.

I'm uncomfortable with 3 years but if we win a flag in the first year I can live with it.

The only defense is that the 2021 form of Jones was possibly his best season. If we can get something close to that in 2023 then it's a huge win. If we have learned anything from the Crameri time away from football experience I hope Jones really does ramp up his training now.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

Lake was a similar age profile when he went to ther Hawks, and he was never exactly a ripping athletic specimen - it didn't seem to slow him down in his 3rd year at the Hawks. He was definitely cooked straight after though.

I'm uncomfortable with 3 years but if we win a flag in the first year I can live with it. And really that's what this decision is about, giving us the best chance at a premiership in the next year or two. Jones isn't a panacea on his own but he is a good start in filling our key defensive holes and giving us depth in that part of the ground.

This is really the crux of it.

We need to win the flag in 2023, while we have Bont and co at the peak of their powers. If it means we sacrifice a little for the future, so be it, but I want us to be unapologetically aggressive in trying to win the flag next year.

If it goes wrong, Jones is hardly going to set us back in terms of draft capital or $$.

[Mofra]

I am really, really, really concerned at the length of that deal.
The guy can jump but can he jump at 33, 34, 35?

[GVGjr]

I am really, really, really concerned at the length of that deal.
The guy can jump but can he jump at 33, 34, 35?

I think it had to be a two year offer but you would have to expect the dollar value in the 3rd year would be largely incentivized.

He's 32 early next year isn't he so I guess we just need to get through that one and the next.

[G-Mo77]

OK, it's 3 years which does have me concerned. Hopefully it's a 2 year deal with a clause for a third.

Anywho how do we get him here? Do we have to trade with Carlton, can he be signed as a free agent. What's the process with this one?

[GVGjr]

OK, it's 3 years which does have me concerned. Hopefully it's a 2 year deal with a clause for a third.

Anywho how do we get him here? Do we have to trade with Carlton, can he be signed as a free agent. What's the process with this one?

He's a FA. He just tells other clubs he isn't interested and we can list him in that FA window.

[Vred]

An IN of Lobb and Jones is a good start, we still need another younger ready-made defender, we still need to hit the draft and draft a young defender (Busslinger if available).

Assistant coach shake up is also on the cards, new blood to come in.

This hopefully is our biggest off season to date, next year our goal should be outright top 4 if not minor-premiers for the H&A season.

[Bulldog4life]

An IN of Lobb and Jones is a good start, we still need another younger ready-made defender, we still need to hit the draft and draft a young defender (Busslinger if available).

Assistant coach shake up is also on the cards, new blood to come in.

This hopefully is our biggest off season to date, next year our goal should be outright top 4 if not minor-premiers for the H&A season.

We had that last year.

[Vred]

We had that last year.

St Bedes tier coaches aren't what we need.

With soft cap being raised by another 500k next season we have the chance to bring in some more experience.

[hujsh]

St Bedes tier coaches aren't what we need.

With soft cap being raised by another 500k next season we have the chance to bring in some more experience.

Finally we can replace Bevo

[Bulldog4life]

St Bedes tier coaches aren't what we need.

With soft cap being raised by another 500k next season we have the chance to bring in some more experience.

No St Bedes coaches added last year. Let me know the names if I am wrong.

[kruder]

I'm not a fan of Jones in either colours to be honest but without giving up a pick he is worth the risk. Keath has been so good for us but this might be the kick up the backside he required.

[mjp]

An IN of Lobb and Jones is a good start, we still need another younger ready-made defender, we still need to hit the draft and draft a young defender (Busslinger if available).

Assistant coach shake up is also on the cards, new blood to come in.

This hopefully is our biggest off season to date, next year our goal should be outright top 4 if not minor-premiers for the H&A season.

Everyone knows Busslinger isn't really a key defender right??

Cool.

[GVGjr]

Everyone knows Busslinger isn't really a key defender right??

Cool.

More of that 3rd defender intercepting type?

[mjp]

More of that 3rd defender intercepting type?

Yeah - to me.

I worry a bit about him (like I do all junior interceptors) that he wont transition well into seniors unless he develops that 1v1 ability (and soon). AFL teams hunt defenders who can't play 1v1 (hence our zoning defenders type solution).

He is a nice kick (I'll grant you that) and gets his share of it at colts level.

[GVGjr]

Yeah - to me.

I worry a bit about him (like I do all junior interceptors) that he wont transition well into seniors unless he develops that 1v1 ability (and soon). AFL teams hunt defenders who can't play 1v1 (hence our zoning defenders type solution).

He is a nice kick (I'll grant you that) and gets his share of it at colts level.

I've seen a comparison linking him to Lever like. Is that a decent one?

Grainger-Barras has struggled to get a spot at Hawthorn which might support your junior interceptors concerns.

[Dry Rot]

Jones to us seems to be happening.

Why all the talk about us getting Lobb?

[GVGjr]

Jones to us seems to be happening.

Why all the talk about us getting Lobb?

Strongly touted in the media is probably the reason.

[mjp]

I've seen a comparison linking him to Lever like. Is that a decent one?

Grainger-Barras has struggled to get a spot at Hawthorn which might support your junior interceptors concerns.

To me Denver G-B was a MUCH better junior player (colts level) than Busslinger. I do like Busslinger (and I know this sounds like I don't) but I just really worry about how you translate a freelancing defender who is allowed to do what they like at under-age level to a senior defender. To be fair, Heath Chapman (injuries aside) has made a pretty fair fist of things at Freo BUT he is/was just so good athletically that it always 'felt' like he would be OK. G-B is TALL and a good mark but if you are a key defender then you need to be able to play on the following players:

Curnow
McKay
Naughton
Lynch
Franklin
Hawkins
Cameron
Daniher
King
Kennedy
etc

If you think that's a list of the best players in the game today, then you would be far wrong. Young KPD's are seriously up against it...which is why all the reports about the kid who went to Adelaide and his struggles should be NO surprise, and why reports of the struggles of Grainger-Barrass should also be no surprise.

How - for example - do you play on Lance Franklin when you have grown up not really worrying about the oppo key forward...I mean, you just read the ball and when the mids kick it in you mark it. Now you are playing against the oppositions BEST PLAYER every single week and you MUST defend them.

I thought it was very telling in the game against Metro that the WA coaches did not move Busslinger onto the Metro kid who kicked 7. I mean, why wouldn't you make the move?

On a somewhat related note, Tom Boyd once kicked 6 in a quarter vs Alir (first oppo) and Tom Barrass (2nd option - went to him after goal #3)...he was injured right on qtime and did not return. Don't ever forget what we have missed out on since his retirement.

[GVGjr]

So Busslinger is a Paul Roos clone :) He might end up a highly sort after coach.

That player you mentioned was Matthew Jefferson who is a strong mark but not as competitive when the ball is on the ground.
Yes it was strange that WA didn't send their best defender to the forward that was ripping them apart unless they thought their best chances were for him to create play for the side in a Bailey Dale type role.

[Mofra]

mjp, have you seem much of the Vic Metro kid Hayes as a genuine KPD option? Touted in the late first round range.

[bornadog]

To me Denver G-B was a MUCH better junior player (colts level) than Busslinger. I do like Busslinger (and I know this sounds like I don't) but I just really worry about how you translate a freelancing defender who is allowed to do what they like at under-age level to a senior defender. To be fair, Heath Chapman (injuries aside) has made a pretty fair fist of things at Freo BUT he is/was just so good athletically that it always 'felt' like he would be OK. G-B is TALL and a good mark but if you are a key defender then you need to be able to play on the following players:

Curnow
McKay
Naughton
Lynch
Franklin
Hawkins
Cameron
Daniher
King
Kennedy
etc

If you think that's a list of the best players in the game today, then you would be far wrong. Young KPD's are seriously up against it...which is why all the reports about the kid who went to Adelaide and his struggles should be NO surprise, and why reports of the struggles of Grainger-Barrass should also be no surprise.

How - for example - do you play on Lance Franklin when you have grown up not really worrying about the oppo key forward...I mean, you just read the ball and when the mids kick it in you mark it. Now you are playing against the oppositions BEST PLAYER every single week and you MUST defend them.

I thought it was very telling in the game against Metro that the WA coaches did not move Busslinger onto the Metro kid who kicked 7. I mean, why wouldn't you make the move?

On a somewhat related note, Tom Boyd once kicked 6 in a quarter vs Alir (first oppo) and Tom Barrass (2nd option - went to him after goal #3)...he was injured right on qtime and did not return. Don't ever forget what we have missed out on since his retirement.

You need to have some height and strength as well to play on those forwards, otherwise they just outreach you. :)

[westbulldog]

No thanks to recruiting Lobb. In last night's game with plenty to play for and on his home deck Lobb was 92% time on the ground, had 8 possessions 1 hitout no clearances and just 107m gained. Plus I reckon he was a bit of a dh when he was against us at GWS.

[Grantysghost]

No thanks to recruiting Lobb. In last night's game with plenty to play for and on his home deck Lobb was 92% time on the ground, had 8 possessions 1 hitout no clearances and just 107m gained. Plus I reckon he was a bit of a dh when he was against us at GWS.

It was a tough night for forwards against the best opposition, however he was pretty bloody awful.

[G-Mo77]

No thanks to recruiting Lobb. In last night's game with plenty to play for and on his home deck Lobb was 92% time on the ground, had 8 possessions 1 hitout no clearances and just 107m gained. Plus I reckon he was a bit of a dh when he was against us at GWS.

You're basing that on one game when the whole team performed terribly. He'll be fine with us, a perfect fit to fill that Ruck/Fwd role which we can't get right.

[The Bulldogs Bite]

No thanks to recruiting Lobb. In last night's game with plenty to play for and on his home deck Lobb was 92% time on the ground, had 8 possessions 1 hitout no clearances and just 107m gained. Plus I reckon he was a bit of a dh when he was against us at GWS.

One game?

Harsh judge.

[westbulldog]

Lobb's av rating this year is 68 and av disposals 11, doesn't stand out as someone you would pay big money for and he is 30 next year. I would much prefer Sam Darcy tyvm :)

[hujsh]

Lobb's av rating this year is 68 and av disposals 11, doesn't stand out as someone you would pay big money for and he is 30 next year. I would much prefer Sam Darcy tyvm :)

You forgot nearly 2 goals in that list BTW

[G-Mo77]

The thing is, if you throw Lobb in the 2022 team we wouldn't be fighting for a finals spot. He would have given us an edge in those closer games we lost.

[Rocco Jones]

It's all relative to the cap space we have, what we are paying Lobb and what we are giving away.

If we've managed our cap space well and are being opportunistic with Freo wanting Jackson, he might not have to be a world beater to be result it in being a good deal.

[Mofra]

The thing is, if you throw Lobb in the 2022 team we wouldn't be fighting for a finals spot. He would have given us an edge in those closer games we lost.
Is Lobb a better second ruck/forward than Hannan, Khamis and Cordy?
To me the answer is yes,

[Grantysghost]

It's all relative to the cap space we have, what we are paying Lobb and what we are giving away.

If we've managed our cap space well and are being opportunistic with Freo wanting Jackson, he might not have to be a world beater to be result it in being a good deal.

Wonder how much Murphy and Boyd had to do with selling the Dogs to him.
I noticed them both in the Freo box.

[GVGjr]

The thing is, if you throw Lobb in the 2022 team we wouldn't be fighting for a finals spot. He would have given us an edge in those closer games we lost.

It's a fair point and one that also underlines that we should have looked for a Bruce replacement as well.

How do you think he will go alongside of Naughton and Bruce? Do you think we could play Naughton, Bruce, Lobb and Ugle-Hagan in the same forward line?

Lobb fits our need of an effective forward and a support ruckman but it might also create some other challenges.

[Swoop]

You can't play all four forwards, and I fear that Jamarra will be the one who misses out. I don't think that's best solution for us in the long term.

[hujsh]

It's a fair point and one that also underlines that we should have looked for a Bruce replacement as well.

How do you think he will go alongside of Naughton and Bruce? Do you think we could play Naughton, Bruce, Lobb and Ugle-Hagan in the same forward line?

Lobb fits our need of an effective forward and a support ruckman but it might also create some other challenges.

True, but given you've been vocal about the club not finding a Bruce replacement and since we've still not seen any evidence that Bruce will return to 2021 form (we saw with Darcy senior it's far from a guarantee) isn't this the kind of depth we need? Chances are that one of Bruce Naughton Lobb or Mara will be out of the side for given periods of time whether it be through injury or covid or suspension. I wonder how often one of the three would actually be squeezed out?

[Grantysghost]

Can Bruce go back? Didn't he start in defence?

Might be an option.

[GVGjr]

You can't play all four forwards, and I fear that Jamarra will be the one who misses out. I don't think that's best solution for us in the long term.

That's essentially my concern. Lobb fits what we need because he's an effective forward plus, not sure if that would diminish slightly playing alongside of Naughton and Bruce, plus he is a more natural support ruckman than most.

It could create a challenge for JUH and Darcy's development though unless we are intending to move Naughton or Bruce back.

[G-Mo77]

Better to have too much than too little.

I think we can fit all 4 personally, JUH can play smaller and is not a traditional KPF yet.

[GVGjr]

True, but given you've been vocal about the club not finding a Bruce replacement and since we've still not seen any evidence that Bruce will return to 2021 form (we saw with Darcy senior it's far from a guarantee) isn't this the kind of depth we need? Chances are that one of Bruce Naughton Lobb or Mara will be out of the side for given periods of time whether it be through injury or covid or suspension. I wonder how often one of the three would actually be squeezed out?

I look at it this way:
At the end of the 2021 season
- We knew Bruce was going to miss a lot of football in 2023
- Ugle-Hagan was coming off his first season with really not showing a lot. Missing so much footy due to Covid slowed his development
- Schache was being groomed to be a key defender

and yet we did nothing about covering Bruce

Before this 2022 season has been completed
- Bruce has now come back
- JUH struggled early but has been performing well lately and looks like he should be a regular
- Naughton playing a lone hand up forward for the majority of the season and has had some minor injury set-backs
- Schache has been moved around a bit but has performed OK

and we have been strongly linked to Lobb well before the end of the season

I think we are a year late in getting someone in but there are now a couple of challenges.
Lobb is clearly a good option for us but can he play as the third wheel alongside of Naughton and Bruce?
What will bringing Lobb in do for the development of Marra and Darcy?

If you think there is a comparison between our tall forwards and say the Australian cricket quicks when the selectors rest players through the season then that might work for us but we seem very committed to Bruce regardless of form, Naughton is a potential star of the game and I guess that if we bring Lobb in he will also be preferred player for the MC.
Perhaps Darcy will be that key back man and maybe Marra on a wing but I can't see how we squeeze in a 4th tall in our forward line especially knowing the mids like Bontempelli also spend a bit of time up forward.

No question that Lobb fits the bill but it's going to create some challenges.

[GVGjr]

Better to have too much than too little.

I think we can fit all 4 personally, JUH can play smaller and is not a traditional KPF yet.

I get that logic and I do like depth in key positions.

One Marra's footy assets is that he often marks the footy at the high point so while he might not yet be that crash and bash key forward he does play tall.

[Bullies]

Can Bruce go back? Didn't he start in defence?

Might be an option.
Have you seen him move?

[Mitcha]

I'm a bit indifferent to Lobb. As a player TYPE he fits the bill perfectly as someone with some forward craft that can pull his weight when needing to chop out in the ruck but is he the right PLAYER. He seems the type to reap the rewards when the team is going well but never seems to be the catalyst for his team doing well, a bit of a flat track bully. Plus he seems like a bit of a douche with that GWS pedigree.

[GVGjr]

Lets assume the Jones deal is done, what will it likely cost us in terms of a trade to lure the contracted Lobb to the Kennel?

[Bulldog4life]

Lets assume the Jones deal is done, what will it likely cost us in terms of a trade to lure the contracted Lobb to the Kennel?

I would think a 2nd round pick G.

[azabob]

Lets assume the Jones deal is done, what will it likely cost us in terms of a trade to lure the contracted Lobb to the Kennel?


I would think a 2nd round pick G.

Could we push for a third rounder if we take his entire salary?

[azabob]

I really would like to take four picks this draft

[GVGjr]

I would think a 2nd round pick G.

I guess Freo will need to assemble some first rounders to satisfy Melbourne for Jackson so a 2nd rounder for Lobb seems about right.
Freo have to let other players go as well to achieve that.

[GVGjr]

Could we push for a third rounder if we take his entire salary?

I think we will be giving him a revised contract for 3 years so that might not incentivise them. A 3rd rounder would be a good outcome.


I really would like to take four picks this draft

4 or 5 for me but it would depend how many players we trade in and what happens with Dunkley.

[soupman]

He seems the type to reap the rewards when the team is going well but never seems to be the catalyst for his team doing well.

This isn't a 100% correct interpretation of what you have written but isn't someone who reaps the rewards when we play well something we need?

How many quarters have we been awesome but failed to get reward for effort? If Lobb can have a good time and make us more dangerous when we are playing well then he will be more than valuable, even if he is completely unable to make a meaningful impact when we aren't going well.

[Mofra]

Could we push for a third rounder if we take his entire salary?
We have North's third which is practically a late second

[GVGjr]

I'm a bit indifferent to Lobb. As a player TYPE he fits the bill perfectly as someone with some forward craft that can pull his weight when needing to chop out in the ruck but is he the right PLAYER. He seems the type to reap the rewards when the team is going well but never seems to be the catalyst for his team doing well, a bit of a flat track bully. Plus he seems like a bit of a douche with that GWS pedigree.

It's an interesting point you you have raised. I agree that he ticks a few of the boxes we are looking for in a player but I'm still not there that he is a great fit for us.

What would he do to the development of Ugle-Hagan and Darcy?

[bornadog]

It's an interesting point you you have raised. I agree that he ticks a few of the boxes we are looking for in a player but I'm still not there that he is a great fit for us.

What would he do to the development of Ugle-Hagan and Darcy?

Aren't you always talking about backup ruckman and our lack there of?

[GVGjr]

Aren't you always talking about backup ruckman and our lack there of?

Yes we absolutely need to find someone who can provide a chop out and be be a competitive forward and while Lobb fits that bill I think it has the potential to interrupt the development of Marra and Darcy. That's not the end of the world but something to consider.

Had we addressed the gap last year I think we would have been in a better position this year.
I'm not against bringing in Lobb but it could create some other challenges.

[Rocco Jones]

Re: Lobb, I am really on board. Of course I am assuming we go with the right price but that's the same with anything.

Having a look at him this year, one thing that stands out with Lobb is his high time on ground. Lobb averages 97.4% ToG, higher than any non KPD other than Peter Wright.

I see English as a bit in between a typical R1 and a R2/fwd. Closer to R1. His main strengths are suited to around the ground work that comes with having ruck work as your base, however I feel we would benefit in changing it up in the ruck with someone decent there at times. English can have patches where he struggles.

Lobb having a bit more ruck work might reduce his ToG but it's a massive base anyway.

So roughly speaking:

English 60% ruck 30% forward
Lobb 40% ruck 50% forward

Maybe a touch higher with English rucking/Lobb up forward way.

[Boots]

Twitter (link (https://twitter.com/mattturner1986/status/1553905112976080896)) reporting that PA are keen on Dunks.

I was OK with him leaving until a mate pointed out he's one of only two decent tacklers in our midfield.

[GVGjr]

Twitter (link (https://twitter.com/mattturner1986/status/1553905112976080896)) reporting that PA are keen on Dunks.

I was OK with him leaving until a mate pointed out he's one of only two decent tacklers in our midfield.

I hope he makes his decision soon and I don't see why Port really need him as they already have a better version of him in Wines.
If we were to land pick 6 or so from Port it wouldn't be a bad return for us but I'd prefer him to stay.

[bornadog]

Twitter (link (https://twitter.com/mattturner1986/status/1553905112976080896)) reporting that PA are keen on Dunks.

I was OK with him leaving until a mate pointed out he's one of only two decent tacklers in our midfield.

A wish list

[Grantysghost]

I hope he makes his decision soon and I don't see why Port really need him as they already have a better version of him in Wines.
If we were to land pick 6 or so from Port it wouldn't be a bad return for us but I'd prefer him to stay.

Yep would be a big loss, but I reckon it gets to the point where you have to just say this is our offer take it or leave it.

I reckon that's where we are at.