Vanilla Gorilla

The narrative hasn't changed. There was never a "strong" indication that Jesse would sign an extension. Rather, the narrative was that we've opened up discussions with him about the possibility of an extension. One step at a time my friend.

I just watched the AIS Academy vs Northern Blues game - and I must admit - very impressed by Weideman. Presents well, good leading patterns, strong mark, good set shot, very competitive and gets into the contest when the ball hits the ground. He's got a lot of attributes that are well suited to the modern game.

Anyone think he has a bit of Robbie Flower about him?

Spot on. It's amazing how quickly people on here dismiss a guy like Melksham when our midfield group is so poor and shallow. Before the ASADA saga was exposed, the guy was playing very decent footy and was on-track to becoming an easily above average AFL midfielder. Being Melbourne supporters over the last 8 years, we all know that a draining cultural environment can have a significant impact on players' development. Essendon is no different. Im sure the guy can play at least 30% better than he's been over the last 2 years. Provided we can get him for the right price, I'm on board.

I would be extremely surprised if we kept picks 2 & 3. Roos needs instant improvement, and he can't afford to wait for an 18 year old to develop. He has also shown a proclivity to trade away high draft picks. Expect to see at least one, if not both, of these picks traded.

Yes the net effect over the last few years may be thereabout even, but that doesn't disprove the fact that Sydney have access to players that others clubs don't.Both Melbourne and Sydney can use the father-son rule, only one club can list players under their academy. Even if Sydney invest time and resources into these kids, why should't Melbourne be allowed the opportunity to do the same?

Just as an aside - Is anyone else outraged that Sydney have the rights to Isaac Heeney because he falls under their academy? They are arguably the best side in the league, and can claim arguably the best midfielder in the draft, because of a structure that is not given to all the other clubs. Why are they allowed to claim 'academy' players and other clubs aren't? I call shenanigans!

I thought you could only 'get them for nothing' if they were RFA or UFA? Even if they're out of contract, other clubs would still have to trade for them, or the player could nominate for the draft. Can anyone confirm?

wut?

Since when did 50-50 mean an almost certainty? Not the laws of probability I learnt in high school...