The Alex Dodson Thread

[old55 23,309]

I have no idea about U18 talent, but I wonder if we rate Alex Dodson.  This is the perfect time to draft a ruckman with Max signed on for 3 more years.

I like Will Verrall but I think he is going to struggle to make it as #1 ruck at 199cm.  He could be a forward-ruck or KPB option.

It's going to take at least a year, probably two, before a drafted ruckman is ready for AFL. Few ruckmen successfully carry the #1 mantle in their first two seasons.

By season three in 2027 the transition from Max will be in full swing, a draftee this year will turn 21 then.  It's too late doing it in the 2026 draft.

Some discussion in this article: Top picks on table, Crows moves keep coming, Combine watch

It's risky to rely on picking up a ready-to-go mature ager at the end of Max's contract - if that was this year who are the options - Ivan Soldo? No thanks.

If we do like Dodson and draft him we can always fall back on the mature ager strategy if he doesn't come on as hoped.

[Diamond_Jim 12,503]

Did he play basketball ?

[Fat Tony 5,216]

Surely the better strategy is to bring in a ready made replacement when Max is done, rather than take the risk of drafting a ruckman. 

[The Jackson FIX 3,025]

Been waiting for the Alex Dodson thread to come along and give me hope again!

[Herewecome2017 5]

I just read the link that old55 posted. Yep makes sense to get him! I like that he has an elite basketball background also. I'm all for drafting him!

[Roger Mellie 3,946]

I've been thinking similarly if we have a pick in the right range.

I like the timing and the fact that he'll have great mentors with Campbell and Gawn. I'd be happy for Dodson and Verrall to have a shoot-out for the spot. Verrall's height is a concern and IMO, he doesn't make up for it in other ways (eg. mobility, marking or kicking). I like his handballing and follow-up after a ruck contest but I'll reserve judgement until he's reached peak fitness, hopefully this preseason.

Can anyone offer insight into Dodson beyond the highlights reel?

[layzie 33,724]

Last 5 for 20m dash at the combine. Stay away.

 

**This is a joke**

[old55 23,309]

7 hours ago, layzie said:

Last 5 for 20m dash at the combine. Stay away.

 

**This is a joke**

That's not ideal but endurance is more important for the ruck role, would be interesting to know how he went in the 2km time trial.

[Palace Dees 2,264]

I really hope we find a way to get an early 20's pic (I previously put forward a way in the draft day thread). 

This kid is not your usual awkward tall teen.  

Meet the basketball convert putting up extraordinary numbers

[Whispering_Jack 29,690]

[Mouseymoo 130]

We'd have to split 9, wonder if Port, GWS, WC or Freo might give us their first and early second.. 

Edited 9 hours ago by Mouseymoo

[Tarax Club 3,843]

Thought we gave up all the loose change to move to the premium seats. Would be astounded if 9th would be down grounded. Defies logic.
 

Wednesday fortnight can’t be too far away…

…relief is in sight isn’t it?

[old55 23,309]

3 hours ago, Mouseymoo said:

We'd have to split 9, wonder if Port, GWS, WC or Freo might give us their first and early second.. 

26, 29 and 30 could be too late if Dodson is any good

[DeeSpencer 25,365]

2 hours ago, Tarax Club said:

Thought we gave up all the loose change to move to the premium seats. Would be astounded if 9th would be down grounded. Defies logic.
 

Wednesday fortnight can’t be too far away…

…relief is in sight isn’t it?

We made a similar offer for 13 as we did 9. We did what was needed to get the additional first rounder. Perfectly logical that we make a small trade down if the draft board and offers work out.

[Wells 11 5,360]

Surely Kalani White would be the future ruck investment? IF we draft Dodson might it mean we don’t feel he’s coming? 

[Redleg 40,775]

1 hour ago, Wells 11 said:

Surely Kalani White would be the future ruck investment? IF we draft Dodson might it mean we don’t feel he’s coming? 

Or he is not big enough to be an AFL ruckman, but rather a key position player.