A number of Crows defenders could prove popular choices in this year’s AFL Fantasy season.
Matthew Jaensch ($477,000) and Brodie Smith ($465,000) were among the most improved players in the competition last year, with the pair heading the pricelist of Crows backmen.
Jaensch finished inside the top ten for total points scored by a defender with an average of 84 points per game. His value also ballooned by over $100k throughout the course of the season.
All Australian defender Smith wasn’t far behind. He finished with an average of 82 points including seven triple-figure totals as Adelaide’s main avenue out of defence. The lure of more midfield time could see Smith’s scores soar even higher.
The duo played every game in 2014 and both still have their best footy ahead of them. Make sure they are high on your Fantasy wish list.
See the full list of player prices and positions
An injury-free Ricky Henderson ($329,000) is another worth consideration.
The 26-year-old played just eight games in Season 2014 after he suffered a broken leg last February.
A fit and firing ‘Hendo’ has a high ceiling – he’s scored six Fantasy tons since 2010 including three triple-figure totals during a breakout 2013 season. His versatility is another bonus, as Henderson has shown he is just as capable up forward as well as in defence.
The former rookie is $100k cheaper than his opening value from last year, making him great value for money and a wise long-term Fantasy investment.
Recruit Kyle Cheney ($309,000) is similarly priced and has impressed in his first pre-season at West Lakes.
History says Cheney is not a prolific Fantasy scorer, but coach Phil Walsh is a big admirer of the mobile defender and could bring out the best in the former Hawk. Keep an eye on his form during the NAB Challenge.
First-round draftee Jake Lever ($259,000) is a tempting option as tall duo Andy Otten ($266,000) and Sam Shaw ($227,000) continue their road to recovery, but fellow newcomer Harrison Wigg ($192,000) could be a smarter alternative.
The skilful left-footer can play almost anywhere on the ground which could see him earn a debut before his more expensive teammate. Again, the NAB Challenge will provide a better barometer.
Rookie defender Jake Kelly ($120,000) is another to keep on your radar.
Kelly, who turns 20 later this month, impressed in his first season with the Club and was a joint Runner Up in the Crows’ inaugural State League Best and Fairest count.
At such a bargain price, Kelly is worth a shot should he win a chance on the Club’s senior list.
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Our final AFL Fantasy preview will feature the Crows forwards on offer in AFL Fantasy 2015.
Adelaide Defenders in AFL Fantasy 2015
| Player | Position | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Matt Jaensch | DEF | $477,000 |
| Brodie Smith | DEF | $465,000 |
| Brent Reilly | DEF | $425,000 |
| Rory Laird | DEF | $346,000 |
| Ricky Henderson | DEF | $329,000 |
| Kyle Cheney | DEF | $309,000 |
| Kyle Hartigan | DEF | $300,000 |
| Luke Brown | DEF | $282,000 |
| Daniel Talia | DEF | $276,000 |
| Andy Otten | DEF | $276,000 |
| Jake Lever | DEF | $259,000 |
| Sam Shaw | DEF | $227,000 |
| Harrison Wigg | DEF | $192,000 |
| Jake Kelly | DEF | $120,000 |
| Keenan Ramsey | DEF | $120,000 |
| Sam Siggins | DEF | $120,000 |
