ADELAIDE



Brodie Smith: With his penetrating kick Smith is one of the key members of Adelaide's squad. Last year’s All-Australian selection will launch many of the Crows' attacking drives.

Luke Brown: Now a regular in the back half, Brown has done well to fill the void left by retired veteran Michael Doughty. An important small defender who can work off his opponent and attack.

Kyle Cheney: Crossed to West Lakes in search of opportunity and with a fan in coach Phil Walsh he will probably find it. An irregular heartbeat ruled him out for a few days in February but has trained fully since.

Kyle Hartigan: Will look to fill the shoes of the retired Ben Rutten as Adelaide's big-bodied key defender. With just 10 games to his name Hartigan will shoulder far more responsibility this year.

Ricky Henderson: Surgery limited his training last summer before that horrific broken leg, but has had a clear run since late in the 2014 season. Such an important player when firing, Henderson hopes to cement his place back in the starting 22 across half-back.

Matthew Jaensch: Along with Brodie Smith, Jaensch is one of the club's main attacking weapons in defence. Aggressive, strong and reads the ball well. Said to have been battling with Harrison Wigg about who has the best kick at West Lakes.

Jake Kelly: Yet to debut, but his attack on the football has impressed coaching staff. A strong and uncompromising player, Kelly needs to gain more experience at SANFL level before pushing for a senior spot.

Rory Laird: Fighting to lock his name on the team sheet among substantial pressure as a small defender. Laird played well against the Kangaroos, taking some strong marks and attacking the football with his usual vigour.

Jake Lever: The Crows will take a conservative approach to its No. 14 draft pick and he will come up through the SANFL. But the key defender has shown his the ability that had him so highly touted before his 2013 knee reconstruction and could still make his debut this year.

Andy Otten: The talented defender was beginning to hit his straps last year when he suffered a knee injury that required a reconstruction. Otten’s 2015 will be spent in rehabilitation with an eye on 2016.

Sam Shaw: Had a piece of bone removed from the back of his leg last year in the hope of fixing his persistent hamstring issues. If it works Shaw's athleticism could quickly turn him into an asset either in defence or attack.

Sam Siggins: Developed well last year in the SANFL and will have to do so again this year if he is to make his senior debut. Siggins is a tall defender with long arms and sound skills.

Daniel Talia: The reigning club champion is the club's most important player and leads a young and inexperienced defensive unit. The Crows need him at his best in 2015 and signs so far suggest he will be.

Brent Reilly: The veteran was training well ahead of what loomed a crucial season if his contract was to be extended before fracturing his skull at training. It appears likely Reilly has played his last game for the Crows.

Harrison Wigg: Drafted to West Lakes with huge raps on his left-foot kick and has impressed teammates with his approach to training. Got a taste of AFL football against North Melbourne and with SANFL form could push for a senior debut. - Harry Thring

BRISBANE LIONS



Jed Adcock: After two years as captain, Adcock handed over the reigns to Tom Rockliff in the off-season. One of the Lions' most consistent, you can expect more of the same in 2015, with his ability to lock down an opponent and also run off and link up in attack. Adcock will also spend plenty of time on the wing.

Harris Andrews: A Lions' academy product taken in last year's draft, Andrews has made a big impression in his first pre-season. He's 201cm and has a light frame, but is smart and reads the flight of the ball well. Don't be surprised if he sees some senior action.

Hugh Beasley: A competitive key defender, Beasley was taken as a project rookie who will spend the season in the NEAFL. He stands 190cm, but is strong-bodied and has shown through the juniors he is capable of marking much bigger opponents.

Claye Beams: The Lions want more run and better ball users in their back half and hope Beams is the answer. Dogged by injuries over recent years, the 23-year-old has moved from a congested midfield, and with his great balance, pace and thumping right boot, should be an asset coming out of defence.

Jordon Bourke: Lurking on the fringes, Bourke got one game last year, but is now in his final year as a rookie. Is a solid, medium-sized defender who has excelled at NEAFL level, but needs to improve his aerobic capacity to stick with the better running forwards.

Justin Clarke: A revelation over the past two seasons, Clarke has locked himself in as a pillar of the Lions' future. Was thrown in the deep end last year when given the opposition's best forward on a weekly basis, but his dour, defence-first approach won plenty of admirers.

Tom Cutler: Not the impact of fellow first-year players Taylor, Aish and Gardiner, but Cutler could end up being every bit as good. Was cut down by groin problems last season, but is a smooth mover who loves to rebound from defence. Will need some breaks to play consistent senior footy this year, but is definitely in the club's long-term plans.

Darcy Gardiner: Had an exceptional debut year and has added another 5kg of strength in the pre-season. Gardiner is quietly spoken but loves to niggle his opponent and has already proven a difficult man to beat.

Mitch Golby: Has slipped down the pecking order after an inconsistent year. At his best, Golby is a good small defender who uses the ball well, but last season seemed to lose confidence and bounced in-and-out of the team. Is a proud player though and capable of returning to his best.

Ryan Harwood: Finished last year strongly and looked set to resume his role as a running half-back before pre-season groin surgery struck him down. Harwood still needs to work on his endurance, but is capable of breaking the lines with his speed off the mark.

Ryan Lester: The Lions have high hopes Lester can fill the void left by Joel Patfull (now with GWS) as a hybrid defender who can help in both directions. Has had an exceptional pre-season and is fitter now than he was when playing midfield. Stands 190cm tall and is capable of playing on medium forwards.

Matt Maguire: With Merrett reverting to defence, Maguire will likely be used as a back-up this year. Has done a remarkable job to prolong his career against the odds and has become a mentor around the young group. Maguire is always ready to play and is the perfect insurance for any injuries to key defenders.

Josh McGuinness: A medium-sized rebounding defender, the Tasmanian was drafted with a long-term view and will spend the year in the NEAFL. He is lean and raw and will be given time to develop. The 19-year-old has exceptional kicking skills.

Daniel Merrett: Will return to his more familiar, and favoured, role at fullback. With injuries and an inexperienced forward line, Merrett has spent a big chunk of recent seasons playing in the forward 50. By his own admission, was poor last year, and coach Justin Leppitsch now wants to see him team up alongside Clarke to provide a solid key defensive duo.

Marco Paparone: A phenomenal athlete, Paparone has been shifted from a running half-forward to the wing and will now play defence. Was dropped from the seniors last year and impressed when moved into defence at NEAFL level. Paparone is 194cm, runs like a gazelle, and has the creativity the Lions are looking for from the back half.

Daniel Rich: Rich has made a strong comeback from an ACL injury that ruined his 2014. With his devastating left-foot kick, the Lions hope he will be the catalyst for much of their attack from the back half, and will look to use him as much as possible when exiting their defensive 50.

Josh Watts: Much like his Tasmanian mate McGuinness, Watts will develop through the NEAFL this year. He is rangy (194cm) and can play at either end of the ground, but will settle in the back half. - Michael Whiting

Daniel Merrett's occasional brain fades can cost him but a move back to defence this year may help



CARLTON



Ciaran Byrne: The Irish rookie has developed significantly since joining Carlton at the end of 2013 and is expected to push for his AFL debut this year. Byrne uses the ball well and got his first taste of senior football in the Blues' round one NAB Challenge clash with West Coast. Likely to get another opportunity in Carlton's next game against Collingwood on March 15.

Sam Docherty: The former Brisbane Lion's second pre-season at Visy Park has gone far more smoothly than his first. Given Docherty finished ninth in last year's best and fairest award, the Blues are excited by what he could produce in 2015 after a solid preparation. Likely to again to spend most of his time across half-back, but is being groomed to spend time on the wing too.

Tom Fields: The first-year rookie is an excellent kick who will be developed to play across half-back. Like most youngsters, he has work to do on the defensive side of his game and Carlton's deep half-back stocks will make it hard for him to earn a senior game.

Cameron Giles: The second-year key defender faces a long stint on the sidelines after undergoing a second operation on his right navicular in November. The South Australian still harbours hopes of returning to the field late in 2015 if he can return to full training by July.

Kristian Jaksch: The former Giant tall made a strong debut for the Blues against West Coast last week in defence, where he looks set to spend most of his time in 2015. Still growing and has some work to do in the gym, but has the talent to develop into a damaging swingman. Has enjoyed a solid pre-season since returning from a foot injury after Christmas.

Michael Jamison: Free of the shoulder problems that dogged him in previous pre-seasons, the newly appointed vice-captain has completed an outstanding summer preparation. Rested from Carlton's round one NAB Challenge match but should return for the Blues' final two pre-season games. Will again shoulder much of Carlton's key defensive load in 2015.

Sam Rowe: One of the success stories of Carlton's 2014 season, Rowe is in a good position to build on his breakthrough year in defence after an excellent pre-season. Developed a strong partnership with Michael Jamison last year and will again be assigned to one of the opposition's power forwards this season.

Ciaran Sheehan: After his impressive finish to last season, the Blues have high hopes for the hard-at-it Irishman. If the left-footer can cement a position across half-back, it could release someone like Sam Docherty to play in the midfield.

Zac Tuohy: The Irishman was down on his career-best 2013 form last year, but has been one of the Blues' standout track performers this pre-season. Has not missed a game over the past two seasons and is capable of shutting down dangerous small forwards while providing counter-attack on the rebound.

Dillon Viojo-Rainbow: The Blues' second pick in last year's NAB AFL Draft, at No. 28 overall, the former Western Jet is a classy defender/midfielder with a booming left foot. Like most first-year players, he needs to improve his conditioning and strength, but the Blues gave him a taste of senior football as one of their substitutes in the NAB Challenge loss to West Coast.

Andrew Walker: The 28-year-old's pre-season has been decimated by a chronic knee injury that required another operation recently. However, he has such a naturally strong fitness base that he remains an outside chance to play in round one against Richmond.

Simon White: Will spend most of his time in defence again in 2015, but is set to be used more flexibly, with occasional forays into the midfield and attack likely. After an outstanding pre-season, White was one of the Blues' best performers in last week's loss to West Coast.

Chris Yarran: The speedster will again be stationed across half-back after becoming the Blues' most damaging defensive rebounder in 2014. He has fully recovered from the minor calf injury he suffered in late January and was among the Blues' best against the Eagles last week. - Nick Bowen

COLLINGWOOD



Tony Armstrong: Was shifted to the rookie list so the Pies had more picks in last year's draft. The former Sydney Swan and Crow is a handy player to have on the club's list because of his versatility.

Nathan Brown: Fit again after being restricted to only three games in 2014 because of season-ending shoulder surgery. Brown will look to re-establish himself in a key position role and aid Jack Frost and Ben Reid in defence.

Jack Frost: Frost was the only Collingwood player to run out in all 22 games for the Magpies last season. The 23-year-old's ability to stand his ground and compete will be a crucial factor in the club's finals hopes.

Tom Langdon: Exceeded everyone's expectations with an outstanding debut season in 2014. Langdon has risen quickly to being one of the top intercept players in the AFL, something he hopes can continue this season.

Michael Manteit: The Magpies drafted Manteit in the rookie draft to release some of the club's more experienced defenders into the midfield. Was a favourite of Collingwood recruiter Derek Hine.

Jonathon Marsh: The speedy defender made great strides in the VFL last season before a season-ending hamstring injury late in the year. Still recovering from the injury and is listed as 3-4 weeks away from a return.

Brayden Maynard: Renowned for his precise and powerful left boot, Maynard has not looked out of place at Collingwood during the pre-season. The No. 30 pick in last year's draft is likely to push for senior action at some stage this season.

Darcy Moore: The highly-rated father-son pick suffered a setback when he injured his toe in January. The Magpies believe Moore is about a month away from a return. That timeframe is not a concern, considering Collingwood sees Moore as a long-term star of the club.

Adam Oxley: Was earmarked to fill a position across half-back in 2014 before a long-term ankle injury ruined those plans. Expected to push hard for a permanent senior berth this season and add to his two career games.

Jackson Ramsay: Has taken some decisive leaps forward and appears a more confident player. Managed two senior games last year and will look to build on that this season. His speed and versatility make him a suitable defensive option for coach Nathan Buckley.

Ben Reid: A nightmare 2014 season is behind him, but that has not stopped the persistent calf issues disrupting part of the 2011 All-Australian's pre-season campaign. Was sent to Germany to gain a better understanding about the injury from a medical expert associated with soccer giant Bayern Munich. Still up to a month away from a return.

Matthew Scharenberg: As frustrating as life has been for the No. 6 pick in the 2013 NAB AFL Draft, things are starting to look more promising. A long-term foot injury and then a season-ending ACL tear have been unneeded distractions for the promising key defender. The Pies still list him out as 'indefinite' but a mid-year return is not out of the question.

Paul Seedsman: Had exploratory hip surgery in January to ease some soreness he was experiencing in the joint. As a result the rebounding defender is yet to return to training. His run and dash are pivotal for Collingwood, but a return before the start of the season is unlikely.

Alan Toovey: Had a slight setback when he nicked his calf after returning from the Christmas break, but the dependable defender is back on track. Never a high-possession getter, but his worth to the side is unquestionable.

Marley Williams: Williams' run and dare from the back half shape as critical for Collingwood this season. Took some promising steps forward in 2014 and will look to continue to improve this year. He and Tom Langdon's ability to shut down the opposition's small to medium forwards will be crucial. - Ben Guthrie

ESSENDON



Jason Ashby: The Bombers have high hopes for Ashby, who played five games last year in his second season at the club. He will be aiming to find more of a regular spot across half-back and the wing in 2015 after completing his first full pre-season. He's put on a little bit of size and is a nice, smooth mover who reads the play well.

Mark Baguley: One of Essendon's most improved and consistent players over the last two years. The club trusts him to hold down and contain the opposition's most dangerous small forward, using his speed and defensive mindset to cut them out of games. His ball use has also become more reliable as a rebounding option.

Lauchlan Dalgleish: After several seasons at the club, the running half-back will be hoping to consolidate his spot as a player the Bombers want to have the ball. With his left-foot delivery, and capacity to break the lines, Dalgleish will be aiming for a return to the senior line-up after battling leg injuries last year.

Courtenay Dempsey: A planter facia injury in his foot interrupted Dempsey's pre-season, which until then had been an improvement on his previous off-season which saw him struggle to reach his peak in 2014. At his best, Dempsey's run and carry, strong kicking skills and ability to set the game up from half-back and the wing are pivotal.

Orazio Fantasia: The second-year prospect is in the defensive group as a ball carrier. His speed and agility is strong and it gets him out of trouble and into space, and his penetration by foot can be damaging. A small groin niggle has limited Fantasia in recent times but isn't a long-term worry.

Dustin Fletcher: The competition's oldest player has got through another pre-season, and looks set to again have a steadying influence on the club's backline. Seven games short of being only the third player in League history to reach 400 games, the 39-year-old will continue to help guide the club's younger defenders.

Martin Gleeson: Plenty of people at the Bombers are excited about Gleeson's potential. He still needs to put on some size, but his movement in traffic, dare with the ball and intercept marking make him an emerging player at the club. Gleeson's promising start to last season was cut down by an on-going quad injury but it didn't impact his summer.

James Gwilt: The Bombers recruited the ex-Saint as a free agent to add some more depth to their backline, but also because of his ability to be used up forward. He brings with him plenty of finals experience and at his best is a reliable distributor of the ball.

Michael Hibberd: Hibberd has rapidly risen into one of Essendon's most important players. The rebounding, attacking half-back has become a target for opposition clubs, who often send a defensive forward his way to restrict his run and ball movement. Hibberd has continued to improve his leadership in recent seasons as his standing at the club grows.

Cale Hooker: Hooker was one of a small group of Bombers who travelled to Colorado in December for altitude training. The key defender enjoyed a stellar season in 2014, earning All Australian honours and finishing second in the best and fairest. He was elevated to the Bombers' leadership group for 2015.

Michael Hurley: The club's football manager of performance, Neil Craig, recently noted Hurley had enjoyed an exceptional pre-season. A minor back complaint ruled him out of action for about a fortnight but he has been back in the action this week and is looking to back up his career-best season last year. Appears likely to again spend stints up forward when the Dons need to pinch a goal.

Conor McKenna: The international rookie has fitted in well at the club since arriving from Ireland. Immediately he impressed with his athleticism and foot skills. He has spent most of his time with the defensive group training as a backman, but has also got a taste of things in attack. McKenna has already shown his dynamic traits to teammates.

Tayte Pears: After some horrible injury luck in recent seasons, Pears enters another year with a disrupted pre-season. Following heel surgery towards the end of last season, he has treaded a slow path back to fitness and returned to light training last week. He ran at a reasonable level but is still some time away from resuming full duties.

Ariel Steinberg: Having been used as a forward early in his career, Steinberg has settled into his place as a third tall defender. He was made to wait for his debut, which finally came last year, but will spend another season starting on the rookie list. He trains hard, reads the game well and can play on opponents taller than him. - Callum Twomey

Remember Tayte Pears? The Dons defender has suffered with a litany of injuries in recent seasons



FREMANTLE

Zac Dawson: Veteran key defender just signed a two-year contract extension. Has had a limited pre-season due to a niggling groin injury that has persisted after Christmas. He has barely trained in 2015 and is working his way back slowly. Unlikely to be available round one and won't be rushed back.

Paul Duffield: Dependable defender who tends to drop off his opponent and provide support for his teammates to ensure they are not exposed one-out. Also arguably the best kick in the Dockers team. His precision by foot coming out of defence is a weapon. Got injured late in the NAB Challenge clash with Melbourne but Ross Lyon played down the severity. Remains an important player within the best 22.

Ethan Hughes: A 20-year-old from Swan Districts who was a real smokey when selected by the Dockers in the most recent rookie draft. Hughes, who only started playing football at 15, has a lot of potential as a running half-back. He plays taller than he is and has tremendous agility. He will spend a lot of time developing in WAFL this year but he has impressed in pre-season training.

Sean Hurley: Irishman from County Kildare who has converted from Gaelic football. He stands at 196cm and his endurance and running capacity is extremely impressive. The club is still trying to work out his most natural position and he could be trialled at half-back for Peel. It will be an experimental year for Hurley.

Garrick Ibbotson: Had shoulder surgery during the off-season. Has trained exceptionally hard in his conditioning work but has been eased back into full contact training. Showed a lot of courage to fight through his shoulder injuries last year. Missed the first NAB Challenge clash but should return for the second. Good intercept marker.

Michael Johnson: The 2013 All-Australian was notable for his absence from last year's finals series. A significant back injury forced him to have surgery and miss the early part of pre-season. His recovery since Christmas has been outstanding and he looked in fine shape in the first NAB Challenge game. He is a critical member of the Dockers side for his leadership and calmness under pressure.

Luke McPharlin: The 33-year-old ran a personal best in the club's 3km time trial during the pre-season. Looks in fantastic shape and played well in the first NAB Challenge game against Melbourne. Is likely to be managed at stages throughout the year to ensure he is fit for finals.

Alex Pearce: Impressive tall defender who came close to making his debut last year after being drafted in 2013. Has an outstanding running capacity. Has had a slightly interrupted pre-season with some foot soreness requiring him to work away from the main group for a few weeks to ease his workload. Ross Lyon has suggested he could play some games when and if Luke McPharlin requires a rest.

Alex Silvagni: Takes on greater responsibility this year given the management of Luke McPharlin and the current injury troubles for Zac Dawson. Strong key defender who is tough to beat one-on-one. Did an excellent job on Lance Franklin in the Dockers' qualifying final loss last year. Will have more big jobs come his way.

Tanner Smith: Young key position player who can play both ends but has played predominantly in defence. Was downgraded to the rookie list after injury troubles last year. Played one game in 2013. He played as the sub in the first NAB Challenge but only came on late in the last quarter. Unlikely to play much senior football this year unless there are injuries to key personnel.

Lee Spurr: Tough mature-age defender who was again named in the Dockers' leadership group. Plays regularly on the competition's best small forwards and is rarely beaten. Vocal leader in defence and will continue to be a mainstay of Fremantle’s side.

Cameron Sutcliffe: Young running defender on the rise. He was named Fremantle's player of the finals last year along with Zac Dawson. One of Ross Lyon's favourites, he's had an impressive pre-season and performed well in the first NAB Challenge game. Took on the kick-in duties and may be used more in that role depending on Paul Duffield's fitness.

Tom Vandeleur: Turns 20 this month and is in his second year on the rookie list. He's a 192cm, 92kg defender. Has the ability to float forward but has played mainly in defence for Peel Thunder. Unlikely to play senior football this year. - Alex Malcolm

GEELONG



Jed Bews: Bews, the son of club great Andrew, has improved his aerobic capacity this pre-season after failing to run out games in 2014. With James Kelly moving into the midfield, the small defender's role is likely to fall to Bews, who is regarded as an aggressive and pacy backman.

Mark Blicavs: The 198cm utility trained with the defensive group during the pre-season and has worked closely with Harry Taylor and Tom Lonergan on his positioning. Blicavs' versatility is his key asset, so he will no doubt spend time in the ruck, on the wing and even up forward.

Josh Cowan: After three years wrecked by achilles and hamstring problems, Cowan is finally back on the track and ready to get back to playing footy. Will start in the VFL and look to press for a senior berth so that he can add to his three career games.

Cameron Delaney: The former North Melbourne defender is making strong progress in his return from off-season toe surgery. However, the rookie defender is still eight to 10 weeks away from returning to full training, meaning he faces a delayed start to the season.

Corey Enright: The veteran Cat signed a one-year deal to play on in 2015 and his role will prove crucial to Geelong's premiership hopes again. Reads the game like no other, allowing him to cut off opposition kicks and rebound with purpose.

Jake Kolodjashnij: Kolodjashnij, the twin brother of Gold Coast's Kade, showed plenty of promise for Geelong's VFL team last season. The 19-year-old has worked closely with legendary defender and part-time development coach Matthew Scarlett this pre-season with the view of gaining senior opportunities this year.

Tom Lonergan: The reliable defender will be asked to handle some of the AFL’s best forwards again in his customary role at full-back. Turned down a contract offer from the Western Bulldogs in the off-season and demonstrated loyalty to remain at Geelong.

Andrew Mackie: Rebounding from defensive 50 is his forte and Geelong will call on Mackie to continue dishing the ball to teammates. May spend time on the wing as well, but his ability to play on taller and smaller opponents makes him a valuable member of the Cats side.

Jared Rivers: Enjoyed a fine 2014 season to finish sixth in Geelong's best and fairest. The versatile defender's role is crucial for the Cats' overall structure as he allows Harry Taylor to push forward at times. Has a happy knack of spoiling the ball away from his opponent.

Billie Smedts: It is now or never for Smedts, who falls out of contract at the end of the season. The Cats' first-round pick from the 2010 NAB AFL Draft has been inconsistent, with injury and form issues causing disruption. Has enjoyed a terrific pre-season and is desperate to lock down a spot in Geelong's best 22.

Harry Taylor: The star defender hired a running coach over the off-season to ensure he was ready to roll during the pre-season. Decided he needed to be leaner and fitter to run out games more consistently after an up-and-down 2014. Taylor has all the skills to be the game's best defender.

Jackson Thurlow: Sent to hospital after suffering a lacerated kidney during a routine training drill in December. Returned to the training track early last month and has been focused on getting up to speed with his conditioning. Despite missing a lot of training, Thurlow is aiming for an early-season return.

James Toohey: The 197cm rookie key-position player floated between defence and attack in the VFL last season. Trained closely with Harry Taylor and Tom Lonergan during the pre-season, meaning the backline is his likely starting point in 2015.

They've won a flag together, so it's no wonder that Andrew Mackie and Chris Scott are pretty close



GOLD COAST



Greg Broughton: Was redrafted as a rookie, but after 20 games last year, Broughton is a huge chance to be elevated again. Dependable and resolute, the former Docker has a good mix between defence and attack.

Clay Cameron: An untimely bug cost the Queenslander 4kg and some pre-season training on the sidelines. Impressed last year as a third tall defender with his dour attitude and is again in the frame to be a regular in 2015.

Josh Glenn: Has impressed in his first pre-season at the club after being taken as a 20-year-old rookie from South Australia. Glenn has supreme kicking skills and will be used at half-back.

Jarrod Harbrow: Seems to get better with age. Harbrow played more of a midfield role in 2014, but has trained with the defenders during the pre-season and will again split time between the two. His run-and-carry is crucial to the Suns, and Harbrow's skills and decision-making get better by the year.

Kade Kolodjasjnij: A terrific debut season for the No.5 draft pick from Tasmania. Kolodjashnij has composure beyond his years, and his left foot is already one of the most penetrating and accurate on the list. Arguably the Suns' best endurance athlete, watch for him to push up to the wing.

Sean Lemmens: Another coming off a strong first year, Lemmens again looks set to hold down the back pocket position in 2015. He is lightly framed but a fearless competitor who attacks the ball without hesitation.

Jack Leslie: Young key defender who made some good improvement in his first season. Ideally the Suns would like him to develop for another year or two in the NEAFL, but the 198cm 19-year-old will be right in the frame for a call-up if either Thompson or May get injured.

Nick Malceski: The biggest signing for the Suns since Gary Ablett switched from Geelong. Malceski is not only a Sydney Swans premiership player, but at 30, is fresh from an All Australian season. His on-field exploits are well known, but his off-field leadership and influence have also made an immediate impact.

Steven May: Found his home at fullback last year, and through the first 15 rounds was in All Australian contention. May is combative, and although looking slightly undersized at 190cm, reads the play well and loves to play in front and run off his man. A knee injury post-Christmas has curtailed his pre-season and he is racing the clock for round one.

Trent McKenzie: The laconic left-footer has proved the perfect hybrid defender during his four-year career. At a pinch McKenzie can play as a third tall, but does his best work as a loose man where he can use his booming left foot to launch Gold Coast counterattacks. Forms a trio of lethal lefties alongside Malceski and Kolodjashnij.

Adam Saad: A super impressive pre-season has vaulted this rookie to the cusp of a senior elevation. This Coburg product has exceptional speed off the mark, evasion and loves to take the game on.

Henry Schade: Big year for the lanky Tasmanian who is entering his fourth season at the club. Schade, a key defender, has had best pre-season to date and put in an admirable performance against Tom Hawkins in the opening NAB Challenge match.

Danny Stanley: The veritable "Mr Fix It" for Gold Coast, Stanley is capable of playing anywhere on the ground. Is capable of getting his own ball, but has done his best work when shutting down an opponent. Will likely be on the selection fringe, but has proved time and again he is up to any challenge.

Seb Tape: Almost the forgotten man of the Suns defence, Tape's career has been stalled by a series of injuries. With a modified pre-season he will start down the pecking order, but at his best, Tape is a supremely skilled third tall that is difficult to beat one-on-one.

Rory Thompson: Alongside May, Thompson has the potential to form one of the best one-two key defensive units in the AFL. With his long arms and great closing speed, the Queenslander is capable of playing on forwards of all sizes. A turf toe injury has disrupted his pre-season, but he'll be fine for round one. - Michael Whiting

GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY



Matt Buntine: Took a step forward last year by managing seven games, including the final four. A strong intercept mark, Buntine was often undersized on his opponents last season and faces a fresh challenge with Joel Patfull coming into the team.



Aidan Corr: A shoulder injury ruined the young key position player's 2014 season after just four games. But he is back on track and has been named for the Giants' first NAB Challenge match against Gold Coast.

Phil Davis: The tough-as-nails co-captain has trained with a guard to protect his damaged kidneys, but is on track for a big campaign. Davis recently extended his contract until the end of 2018 and is set to form an important partnership with Joel Patfull.

Curtly Hampton: Versatile half-back who can play taller and smaller than his 185cm. Restricted by an ankle injury then shoulder problems last year, Hampton returned in round 23 and is ready to go for the NAB Challenge.

Nick Haynes: Mobile 192cm defender has bulked up over the off-season after overcoming a season-ending broken ankle in round eight. Haynes has reportedly put on 4kg as he tries to win back a spot in an increasingly competitive back six.

Adam Kennedy: Small defender who sits fifth on the Giants' games list with 54 matches under his belt. Kennedy, who played 20 matches last year, has shown the ability to shut down some of the game's premier small forwards.

Caleb Marchbank: Tall defender who defied back and knee issues in the past two years to go pick six in last year's draft. Can play forward and will be hoping to earn a senior debut at some point in 2015.

Tim Mohr: Ahead of schedule after a knee reconstruction, the big backman is aiming to play round one against St Kilda. At 196cm and 103kg he adds size to GWS' defence but has not played since round 18 and has been left out of the Giants' first NAB Challenge match.

Joel Patfull: The dual Brisbane Lions best and fairest relocated to Sydney during the NAB AFL Trade Period and looms as a key signing for the Giants. The 190cm former Lion often takes bigger opponents and his experience will be pivotal as Leon Cameron attempts to reduce the scores kicked against his side.

Lachie Plowman: Suffered a dislocated left elbow in January which was expected to rule him out of the opening rounds. However, the former No. 3 draft pick is recovering well and is some chance to be available for round one, assistant coach Alan McConnell told AFL.com.au last month.

Heath Shaw: Experienced campaigner has been rested for the Giants' first NAB Challenge match ahead of an important campaign. Shaw's defensive rebound will remain crucial if Leon Cameron's men are to take the next step towards the finals.

Zac Williams: Former rookie struggled to nail down a spot last year, playing only eight games. Battling against Heath Shaw and Adam Kennedy for a small defender's role but has the talent to be thereabouts.

Nathan Wilson: A high-leaping small forward in his early career, Wilson was used at both ends last season and showed a knack for defence. Standout performer in the NEAFL who will be aiming to play more than last year's six games in 2015. - Travis King

TOMORROW: Every defender from the remaining nine clubs - Hawthorn to the Western Bulldogs