BODY and mind willing, Luke Hodge would be the perfect fit for the Brisbane Lions' list in 2018.

Come day one of this year's trade period, the Lions should announce they've signed the four-time premiership star to a one-year playing, three-year coaching deal.

Using Sam Mitchell's trade to West Coast as the blueprint, Hodge would conceivably cost the Lions next to nothing.

The Lions' young, inexperienced defence is in desperate need of the type of leadership and guidance Hodge would bring.

Harris Andrews is in just his third season, is already in the club's leadership group, and seen as the man to marshal the Lions' back six.

Imagine Hodge, premiership captain, dual Norm Smith medallist, taking the organisational duties from Andrews and allowing the 20-year-old to concentrate on his primary job?



And learning off the Hawthorn champion at the same time.

Hodge was mic'd up recently when the Hawks beat Adelaide in a Thursday night game, and his on-field 'coaching' was lauded by the likes of Leigh Matthews.

That experience could be right there for Dan McStay (22), Tom Cutler (22), Darcy Gardiner (21), Sam Mayes (23) and Alex Witherden (18) if the Lions make this deal.

Luke Hodge talks with Billy Hartung during a game. Picture: AFL Photos



Hodge has spent much of his football life with Lions coach Chris Fagan, the pair having worked closely as captain and football boss throughout Hawthorn's premiership three-peat.

Fagan also remains close with Hawthorn coach Alastair Clarkson – just a week ago, they arrived together at Gill McLachlan's house for the coaches' dinner.

Maybe it's time for Fagan to plant the seed.

And don't worry about Hodge taking games off younger players.

His form has improved as 2017 has gone on, and with the Lions still a year or two from pushing for finals anyway, he wouldn't have to play every game.

Their list is youthful and promising, but there are quite a few holes still in it and a number of players who are yet to prove they are capable at the top level.

If they're good enough, they'll play, and Hodge would fast-track the development of others.

This is a Lions defence – despite improving by more than two goals a game from last season – that has leaked 200-plus points more than the next worst this year.

Signing Hodge is a win-win for the Lions.

And for Queensland – a strong, respected voice. A star. Tied to the Lions for four years.