Lockout is approaching. These are the players that haven’t left my side — and the ones I’m fading.
5 Must-Start Locks
Now settled across half-back/defence, his scoring profile is built for SuperCoach. Intercept marks, metres gained and ball use = elite defender numbers.
Now at St Kilda and expected to be heavily involved through the midfield rotation. If the role sticks, he’s underpriced for his scoring ceiling.
Pure consistency. Contested work + outside class gives him one of the safest premium midfield floors in the competition.
I genuinely think he wins the Brownlow this year. The role is elite, the accumulation is effortless, and his ceiling games are competition-breaking. You don’t overthink this one.
Big-game scorer. Huge ceiling. When the Bulldogs need a lift, he goes 130+. Paying for reliability and captaincy-level output every week.
3 Risky Picks I’m Avoiding
A down year by his standards, and with Luke Jackson pushing further into the midfield mix, there’s more role uncertainty than people are pricing in.
New club adjustment plus possible role tweaks. I’d rather watch the first month before committing.
Talent isn’t the issue. Durability, fitness continuity and off-field stability are. Too much risk at premium price.
2 I’m Still Torn On
Petracca vs Darcy vs Pickett
- Christian Petracca — leaning this way due to Gold Coast’s opening fixture and proven midfield ceiling.
- Sam Darcy — enormous upside if the breakout truly arrives.
- Kysaiah Pickett — explosive but role-dependent.
Slight lean Petracca for safety + early fixture advantage.
Ruck Dilemma: Xerri vs Gawn vs Jackson vs Grundy
- Tristan Xerri — entering his prime, strong early fixture and no bye disruption. My current lean.
- Max Gawn — proven but priced at peak.
- Luke Jackson — dual-role upside but some midfield uncertainty.
- Brodie Grundy — bounce-back potential, but carries volatility.
If lockout was tonight — I’m starting Xerri.
Do you Agree or disagree?
Who’s your non-negotiable lock — and who are you fading before Round 1?
About The Author
Ben Ashton
