Still reckon Draper the most impactful centre bounce / stoppage mid from the group, but the Pars defect is cause to pass. Doesn’t have the scope of Jagga or Langford to find the ball in general play on exposed form. More pure extractor, but not a huge body, so remains to be seen how it stacks up against the big boys with game sense.
Jagga was my number two, but not by much. Was a strange year with various midfield prospects elevating at different times. Jagga was the constant, consistent high level. The big question was if his game would transfer to the big time against mature bodies with game sense. Gave us an insight with his oerformances for Richmond reserves, then his pre season has confirmed he just has “it”. Somewhat of a hybrid of Butters and Daicos. Elements of both, may not be quite the hard man ZB is but not far off, and has those dancing feet that creates space and makes the difficult look easy. Has the game sense and instincts of Daicos, perhaps less incisive with disposal, but probably more consistent and has a combative edge not seen in Nick D.
Langford is untapped. Can get first hands in traffic and finds space despite his big body. Not “flashy” but oh so effective. Can go forward and take a very solid overhead grab, usually one grab. Great hands. Arguably a little of Crippa, but plenty of Bont. Probably a slower burn, but his ceiling will be very interesting to see.
Coona.
