The AFL's ruck market is a fascinating arena, and with the trade period approaching, the drama is heating up. While the focus has been on key forwards, midfielders, and defenders, the ruck landscape is no less intriguing. The five names at the centre of this discussion are Tim English, Rowan Marshall, Bailey Williams, Kieran Briggs, and Reilly O'Brien. These players are generating significant interest, and their futures are shaping the broader market. Let's dive into the details and explore the dynamics at play.
The Uncertain Future of Tim English
Tim English, an All-Australian ruckman, is a central figure in trade speculation. His five-year extension in August 2024 seemed to secure his future at the Bulldogs, but recent reports have sparked curiosity. Jordan Lewis' comment that English is 'gettable' has added fuel to the fire. The Bulldogs' recent performance, with English attending only a quarter of centre bounces in Round 17, has further raised questions. Coach Luke Beveridge's dismissal of the speculation might not be enough to quell the rumours. The longer-term plans for English at the Bulldogs remain uncertain, and the possibility of a return to West Coast cannot be ruled out.
Rowan Marshall's Intriguing Options
Rowan Marshall, a premier ruckman, is another name generating interest. St Kilda's ruck dynamic has changed significantly with the arrival of Tom De Koning, and Marshall's future is once again up for grabs. The Saints are more open to trading Marshall than they were last year, and Geelong could be his preferred destination. However, the rapid development of Mitch Edwards might reduce the Cats' reliance on adding another established ruck. Marshall's return to form as St Kilda's primary ruck, unaffected by centre-bounce rule changes, makes him a logical replacement for Tim English if the Bulldogs were to lose him.
Bailey Williams' Pivotal Role
Bailey Williams, a restricted free agent at West Coast, is a fascinating name in the ruck market. His absence of a completed contract has fuelled speculation about his future. Williams has enhanced his value significantly, emerging as West Coast's first-choice big man after centre-bounce rule changes. Victorian clubs, including Geelong and the Western Bulldogs, are linked with him, while Richmond remains in the market for an established ruck. Williams' loyalty to the Eagles is expected, but the longer his contract remains unresolved, the more inevitable external speculation becomes. His decision could influence the futures of other ruckmen.
Kieran Briggs' Uncertain Future
Kieran Briggs, an unrestricted free agent at GWS, is facing an uncertain future. The Giants' decision to extend Nick Madden has added to the intrigue, as Richmond could redirect its attention towards Briggs if he becomes available. Despite playing 83 AFL games, Briggs has slipped down GWS' list of priorities amid negotiations with several key players. As an unrestricted free agent, Briggs would attract interest if he reached the open market, and he looms as an experienced number one ruck option in a competition where proven big men are in short supply.
Reilly O'Brien's Diminished Opportunities
Reilly O'Brien, Adelaide's 2020 club champion, has been significantly impacted by the AFL's new centre-bounce rules. Despite signing a three-year contract extension, he has managed just one AFL appearance in 2026. Lachie McAndrew, who has established himself as Matthew Nicks' preferred number one ruck, has left O'Brien effectively third in line. O'Brien's resumé and diminished opportunities make him an attractive prospect for rival clubs, and a club like Essendon, seeking experienced ruck depth, could be an obvious fit if the situation evolves.
In my opinion, the AFL's ruck market is a fascinating arena, and these five players are shaping the broader market. The longer their contracts remain unresolved, the more inevitable external speculation becomes. The trade period is an exciting time, and these names are at the centre of the drama. As an expert, I find it fascinating to see how these players' futures are influencing the strategies of other clubs. The AFL's centre-bounce rule changes have significantly impacted the ruck landscape, and the market is far from settled. The longer the season goes on, the more intriguing the possibilities become.
