Former coach Paul Roos has attributed the big-money signing of star forward Lance Franklin to Sydney's acute slide down the AFL ladder this season.

After reaching last year's grand final, the Swans sit 0-6 as they look to rediscover their form in Sunday's clash with fellow strugglers Brisbane (1-5) at the SCG.

Lance Franklin has not yet delivered a flag Credit:Paul Kane

Roos has given a negative assessment of the Swans' list, claiming it lacks depth as Franklin's 2013 recruitment on a nine-year deal reportedly worth $10 million eats into the salary cap.

"If you go after a player like Buddy, your list becomes skinny," Roos told News Corp Australia.