Thought I'd take a minute to preview a few players for 2017 and their expectations by looking at a few categories; making some predictions; then throwing it out to you.
Breakout: Charlie - by all accounts seems to be fit, healthy and firing at training early on. I'm predicting a big 2nd year for Curnow Jnr as he cements a spot in our forward line, kicks 25+ goals and plays 15+ games.
Career Crossroad: KJ - has now been at the club for two years and made few inroads in his development. Needs to commit to weights program and attack 2017 with drive if he wants to stay in the AFL and at Carlton.
Surprise packet: Gus Sheehan - if this man has a good pre-season, I can see him breaking into the back six very early and staying there ala Byrne in 2016. Also think Cuningham could go under the radar here.
Best new player: Marchbank - seems a bit obvious, but there is some serious man-love for this guy and it's warranted. Should he hit Round 1 fit, will stay in our Best 22 and make a bit impact. Big rising star chance.
The Forgotten One: Murph - the captain was reduced to 10 games in 2016 and was missed greatly. With him and Pick 5 in our midfield, we'll be in a far greater position.
On the Decline: White or Rowe - with the addition of a few young, talented talls, I can see these great servants falling away as they're made to fight for positions. Won't be in our next flag side so 2017 could see the beginning of this transition.
John Nicholls Medallist: Crippa - arguably improved on his incredible 2015 campaign by becoming the best clearance player in the comp this year. Will improve his speed and become a genuine AA contender in 2017.
Post yours below, and discuss.
Breakout: Charlie - by all accounts seems to be fit, healthy and firing at training early on. I'm predicting a big 2nd year for Curnow Jnr as he cements a spot in our forward line, kicks 25+ goals and plays 15+ games.
Career Crossroad: KJ - has now been at the club for two years and made few inroads in his development. Needs to commit to weights program and attack 2017 with drive if he wants to stay in the AFL and at Carlton.
Surprise packet: Gus Sheehan - if this man has a good pre-season, I can see him breaking into the back six very early and staying there ala Byrne in 2016. Also think Cuningham could go under the radar here.
Best new player: Marchbank - seems a bit obvious, but there is some serious man-love for this guy and it's warranted. Should he hit Round 1 fit, will stay in our Best 22 and make a bit impact. Big rising star chance.
The Forgotten One: Murph - the captain was reduced to 10 games in 2016 and was missed greatly. With him and Pick 5 in our midfield, we'll be in a far greater position.
On the Decline: White or Rowe - with the addition of a few young, talented talls, I can see these great servants falling away as they're made to fight for positions. Won't be in our next flag side so 2017 could see the beginning of this transition.
John Nicholls Medallist: Crippa - arguably improved on his incredible 2015 campaign by becoming the best clearance player in the comp this year. Will improve his speed and become a genuine AA contender in 2017.
Post yours below, and discuss.



