Second game according to some
You can pretend he didn't play a game vs Richmond seniors the 2 weeks before all you like, but the fact is he did.
Your argument that it doesn't count due to being a preason rehearsal for round 1 doesn't stack up, as it even more so should be a at a lower intensity for juniors to show there wares and gain some experience vs afl elites.
Both games add experience for him, simple fact is he is not ready.
That's fine he is young and has had a lack of footy over covid and plenty of time on his side.
Just because people think he would be best suited to some vfl developing time doesn't mean they are potting him or the draft selection of him or marking his cards permanently.
Why is it detrimental for him to go back to the vfl and find some form, gain some confidence and work on things he learned in both preseason vs Richmond and then the round 1 game vs dogs?