WITH the dust now settled on the 2018 season, AFL.com.au, with the benefit of hindsight, looks at how Geelong performed in the 2017 NAB AFL Draft.
Pick 22: Lachie Fogarty
Niggling groin and calf injuries halted an otherwise impressive debut season where he played 15 AFL games and was emergency for the elimination final. Fighting an early adductor injury this pre-season and has been on a modified program. Once fit, will look to increase his minutes through the midfield with his competitiveness highly-regarded amongst coaches.
Pick 24: Tim Kelly
Couldn't have done anymore in his debut season that saw him collect the AFLPA's Best First Year Player Award and finish runner-up in the best and fairest. Has returned to pre-season, following two extra weeks leave in WA after his trade request was denied. Superstar Patrick Dangerfield said this week the Cats hope the 24-year-old to go up a notch in 2019. Watch out.
Pick 36: Charlie Constable
Was "excruciatingly close" to an AFL debut in round one, only to be overlooked and named emergency for five of the first seven games. Collected big numbers in the VFL but got concussed at the wrong time in May, and was sent for a 'mini pre-season', having missed parts of the pre-season following tonsillitis. Will get the chance for senior football this year as he increases his tank.
Pick 57: Gryan Miers
Played all 20 games in the VFL and turned heads with his forward pressure but failed to force his way into the AFL side. Would've liked to have hit the scoreboard more but will get further opportunities following the departures of fellow small forwards Lincoln McCarthy and Cory Gregson.
Rookie selection pick 16: Stewart Crameri
Coming off hip surgery, the former Dog and Bomber broke through for four senior games from rounds 7-10 only to succumb to separate eye and groin injuries in the VFL before he was delisted.
Rooke selection pick 30: Matthew Hayball
Provided a second chance as a rookie, his third season at the Cats, before he was cut at season's end. Toiled away for 18 VFL matches.
