The Bombers side is looking pretty strong and settled. Will 2022 be the year they finally win a final? I bloody hope so!
Essendon Bombers Best 22
I’m liking the look of the Bombers list in 2022 with a nice mix of youth and experience across all lines. With some luck with injuries, there is no doubt they can get that elusive finals win this season!
Jake Kelly is a fantastic addition to the Dons backline and that allows Jordan Ridley to utilise his strength more as an intercept defender. Jayden Laverde was very good last season after moving down back and holds his spot at full back. After missing all of last season through injury, I’m leaving Michael Hurley out of my side for now. He’s still on a modified pre-season schedule so I’m not sure where his body is at right now. Obviously he’d be a great addition to the side if fit.
It’s hard not to love the hard running Nik Cox, while Darcy Parish was a revelation going into the midfield last year. Andrew McGrath probably starts on a wing but is one who can also push through the midfield rotations.
Will Snelling is one of the most underrated small-medium forwards in the game and Harry Jones is trending the right way as a key forawrd. Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti has had injury issues this pre-season but if fit, is a certain starter. Devon Smith needs to find his Best & Fairest form from a few years back otherwise his spot in the side is very much under fire.
Dylan Shiel needs to hit the ground running as Jye Caldwell is breathing down his neck as the starting on-baller. Shiel is one I worry about a bit, as the Dons have some good youngsters coming through the ranks including Caldwell, Archie Perkins, Sam Durham and Ben Hobbs.
On the bench, Kyle Langford can play a variety of roles around the ground, while James Stewart gives the side some flexibility as he can play both forward and back.
Aaron Francis, Alec Waterman, Tom Cutler and Brandon Zerk-Thatcher are other players who could fill spots should injuries arise.
CBA prediction
2021 CBA leaders (by average):
- Sam Draper
- Zach Merrett
- Andrew Phillips
- Darcy Parish
- Jake Stringer
- Nick Bryan
The Oracle’s 2022 CBA prediction:
- Sam Draper
- Zach Merrett
- Darcy Parish
- Jye Caldwell
- Dylan Shiel
- Jake Stringer
Kick-in prediction
2021 kick-in leaders:
- Jordan Ridley
- Mason Redman
- Dyson Heppell
The Oracle’s 2022 kick-in prediction:
- Jordan Ridley
- Mason Redman
- Dyson Heppell
