The AFL season is a whirlwind, and while the 2024 season is still underway, it's never too early for footy fans to speculate on the upcoming draft. The Fremantle Dockers, having tasted both success and disappointment in recent years, will be hoping to bolster their list in the 2025 AFL National Draft. Predicting specific picks this far out is impossible, as much depends on the team's performance this season and subsequent trading activity. However, we can explore potential scenarios and discuss the areas where Fremantle might focus their draft strategy.
Current State of the Fremantle List
Before delving into potential 2025 draft picks, it's crucial to assess Fremantle's current playing list. The Dockers have a strong core of experienced players, but identifying potential weaknesses and future needs is key to a successful draft. Areas needing reinforcement might include:
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Key Forward: The Dockers' forward line will always be a point of focus. Depending on the form and future of current players, securing a young, key forward with strong marking capabilities could be a priority.
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Midfield Depth: A strong midfield is crucial in modern AFL. Adding depth and competition for spots in the midfield through the draft could enhance Fremantle’s on-field capabilities.
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Defensive Stability: A reliable defensive unit is paramount. The Dockers may look to the draft to acquire young defenders with athleticism and composure under pressure.
Factors Influencing Fremantle's 2025 Draft Picks
Several factors will significantly impact Fremantle's 2025 draft position and selection choices:
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2024 Season Performance: The Dockers' final ladder position in the 2024 AFL season will directly influence their draft order. A strong season could mean later picks, while a less successful campaign may lead to higher draft selections.
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Trade Period Activity: The upcoming trade period will significantly impact the Dockers' draft hand. Trades involving players and draft picks will alter their position and selection options for 2025.
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Academy and Next Generation Academy Players: Fremantle's access to players from their academy and Next Generation Academy (NGA) pathways could see them use later picks to secure talent already familiar with the club's environment.
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Draft Combine and Scouting: The AFL Draft Combine and throughout the season's intensive scouting will be crucial for the Dockers to identify and rank promising young players.
Predicting the Unpredictable: Possible Scenarios
Speculating on specific draft picks is a challenging task. Still, we can outline potential scenarios based on the current situation:
Scenario 1: High Draft Pick
A disappointing 2024 season could result in a high draft pick, possibly even a top-five selection. This would allow Fremantle to select a highly-rated player to address a significant list need.
Scenario 2: Mid-Range Picks
A mid-table finish in 2024 would likely give Fremantle a selection in the middle rounds of the draft, allowing them to add depth and promising talent across various positions.
Scenario 3: Later Round Picks
A strong 2024 season could result in Fremantle possessing later draft picks. These picks could be utilized to acquire developing players with potential or to trade for future selections.
Conclusion
The 2025 Fremantle Dockers draft picks remain shrouded in uncertainty, dependent on various factors yet to unfold. However, understanding their current list composition and potential draft-day scenarios allows for informed speculation. As the 2024 season progresses and the trade period nears, a clearer picture of the Dockers' draft strategy and potential selections will emerge. Keep your eyes peeled for updates as the year unfolds!
