IT'S NOT there yet, but Adelaide forward Josh Jenkins says the side's attacking chemistry is slowly returning to the level it was last year.

With Kurt Tippett and Taylor Walker up forward in 2012, the Crows emerged as one of the League's most potent attacking units, averaging 15.5 goals a game (ranked fourth in the AFL).

But with Tippett replaced by Jenkins, the Crows have averaged only 13.2 goals per game (11th in AFL) this year.

The Tippet/Walker combination booted 20 goals in the opening four rounds last year, Jenkins/Walker have managed 15.

Jenkins admits his partnership with Walker is taking time to develop, but insists it will get there eventually.

"In Brisbane we showed a bit to show that we can work together pretty well," Jenkins said.

"It's going to take some time, we're not going to gel over night, but slowly but surely we'll get there."

The 24-year-old forward said watching footage of games from different angles had helped him understand the running patterns of his teammates.

Such knowledge hadn't become second nature yet, but Jenkins said he had started to see similarities in the way he and Walker worked.

"I see things happening after the game when I watch the footage behind the goals and stuff like that," he said.

"I see his (Walker) movements, or my movements are sort of similar, so that's the way I realise we're starting to get there.

"Out on the field, once we're really gelling we'll sort of know where each other is at all times."

While athletically gifted, capable of taking towering marks and a reliable shot at goal, the main criticism of Jenkins' game has centred on his rucking ability.

At his best, Tippett was one of the most powerful forwards in the competition, and his work in the middle of the ground when ruckman Sam Jacobs rested was invaluable.

Jenkins shows potential, but admits he's still a while away from consistently winning his own ball when thrown into the ruck.

"It's obviously a work in progress. It's an area that I've copped the most criticism but it's really new for me in there … it's going to take some time," he said.

"If I can split the contest at worst and then hopefully use my ability on the ground that's probably where the midfield coaches see me best."

After the omission of Jason Porplyzia this weekend, following that of Bernie Vince last weekend, Jenkins understands he needs to perform to keep his place in the team. 

Adding to that is the SANFL form of fellow forward/ruckman Shaun McKernan.

"I like to look [and] see how all the SANFL games go and if he plays well … I know there's a little bit of added pressure for me to perform," he said.

"It's the same with everyone in the 22, they've all got to perform because there's two, three, four guys breathing down their neck."

Harry Thring is a reporter for AFL Media. Follow him on Twitter: @AFL_Harry.