HAVING started the offseason with four picks inside the top 25, Fremantle landed a big fish during trade period and still has a single first round selection to play with. The Dockers will look to be genuine finals contenders next year after missing out in 2024, and are well poised to address key list needs.

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2024 RECORD: 10th | 12-10-1 | 111.9%
2024 PICKS: 14, 30, 67
FUTURE PICKS: FRE R1, FRE R2, FRE R3, RIC R3, FRE R4
ACADEMY/FATHER-SON NOMINEES: Jaren Carr (father-son)

FIRST PICK:
Pick 14

While Shai Bolton looms as the missing link in Fremantle’s fortunes, additional forward flair has long been a target area for the Dockers. That being the case, perhaps Joe Berry is a good fit with his smarts and consistent scoreboard presence. The crafty Victorian booted 27 goals in 14 CTL games this year.

In a similar vein, Sandringham midfielder-forward Taj Hotton should not be forgotten after missing most of the season with an ACL tear. Before that point, he had been in dominant form and earned a call-up to the AFL Academy having improved his running game while still impacting the scoreboard in a big way.

Departing footy manager Peter Bell has suggested the Dockers may go another way though, instead prioritising a running half-back who uses the ball well. Gippsland left-footer Xavier Lindsay suits that description perfectly, but also has the scope to operate off a wing or continue his midfield development.

Another Victorian in Tobie Travaglia may also be in the offing for his daring running game and versatility. Fremantle would also have had a close look at top local talent Bo Allan, who supports the Dockers and won a senior flag with Peel Thunder this year. He may be off the board at that point, though.

Allan, an explosive 191cm defender who can also roll into midfield, would likely be the best available player in that range, if still on the board. Otherwise, there is a scenario where highly touted midfielder Murphy Reid slides into the teens and he would prove very difficult to pass up.

REMAINING CROP:

Fremantle has freed up plenty of space to welcome new additions having made seven delistings. One of them, Max Knobel, was made with the promise of a rookie list spot, while Karl Worner has been promoted to the senior list. It means along with pick 14, Freo will likely make another two selections.

Father-son hopeful Jaren Carr, the son of Matthew, will be a consideration. If the Dockers aren’t eyeing off any talent still available with their last pick (67), perhaps it could be used to secure the 20-year-old. Otherwise a rookie spot is also available, though there has been no guarantee made to the forward.

Up at pick 30, perhaps some key position options will be looked at. Key forwards Jonty Faull and Thomas Sims will be hard to deny, while local talent Kayle Gerreyn is right in that hitting zone. The latter pair are capable rucks who are capable of hitting the scoreboard in bunches.

Another West Australian talent in Clancy Dennis could be considered for key defensive depth along with Noah Mraz, while Angus Clarke is an aggressive intercept and rebound half-back who may be looked at should the Dockers opt to select a tall or forward-leaning talent with pick 14.

Aside from the long-term options, Fremantle has been known to dabble in more readymade, mature-age prospects. That being the case, along with Carr, another 20-year-old forward in Sam Davidson is worth a look after his breakout year in the VFL, which won him the Fothergill-Mitchell-Round Medal.

Dashing defender Riley Bice is another who may be in the frame, depending on what type of talent comes in with Fremantle’s first pick. His kicking game lends to top notch playmaking ability and could suit what Bell was referring to with regards to the Dockers’ needs.

KEY QUESTIONS:

– Will Fremantle prioritise bolstering its forward or back half with pick 14?
– Could Fremantle use its stockpile of future picks to enhance its position?
– Is father-son Jaren Carr a serious chance to be taken?