
The GWS Giants had a strong 2024 season, and their player list offers some intriguing options for fantasy leagues heading into 2025. Here, we break down undervalued players, breakout candidates, stash options, senior players, and rookies to keep an eye on.
Undervalued Players
Jesse Hogan
While calling Jesse Hogan “undervalued” may be a stretch given his Coleman Medal win last season, his fantasy output tells a different story. Averaging just 76.8 for the year, he falls below the “too good for the podcast” threshold. As GWS’s main forward target, Hogan should have another successful season. Slot him into your forward lines for consistent contributions.
Connor Idun
Connor Idun could see a 3-4 point per game uptick in 2025. With Harry Perryman departing to Collingwood and Isaac Cumming heading to Adelaide, the Giants’ defensive depth has thinned. Idun might see more of the ball in the backline, making him a solid D5 option for your squad.
Xavier O’Halloran
Xavier O’Halloran remains a speculative pick. With James Peatling now at Adelaide and Stephen Coniglio often battling injuries, there may be a midfield opportunity for him. His forward eligibility adds a little extra value, but after multiple years of unmet expectations, it’s best to approach with caution.
Breakout Candidates
Lachie Ash
Harry Perryman’s move to Collingwood opens a small void on the halfback line, and Lachie Ash stands to benefit. With Lachie Whitfield aging, Ash is well-placed to become GWS’s primary distributor from defence in future years. Keeper league managers jump on him now before Ash solidifies himself as a key fantasy player in the Giants’ backline.
Finn Callaghan
GWS desperately needs Finn Callaghan to step up in 2025. With James Peatling gone and Tom Green requiring midfield support, Callaghan has a clear opportunity to shine. A strong junior player who has shown flashes of brilliance, Callaghan has the potential to finally deliver a breakout season.
Stash Options
Darcy Jones
Darcy Jones is a classy small forward that needs to add a few more strings to his bow before he becomes fantasy relevant. Showed last season he could run through the middle at times, which I don’t think is a permanent thing, but it’s good to see he’s got the versatility to do it. If he can kick a few more goals and add a few more tackles as well as spend a tiny bit more time in the midfield, he could be a fantasy prospect in the future.
Nicholas Madden
Nicholas Madden dominated the VFL as a ruckman last season, regularly posting huge scores. While he remains behind Kieren Briggs in the pecking order, he appears to have overtaken Braydon Preuss as the second-choice ruck. If an injury arises or Madden earns opportunities through natural progression, he’s one to watch for the future.
Josh Fahey
Suspended for the opening weeks of the season, Josh Fahey is a prolific scorer at VFL level, averaging over 100 points in 2024. Questions remain about his ability to perform at AFL level, but if he finds a consistent spot in the senior side, he could become a valuable fantasy asset. A late-round draft pick worth stashing.
Harry Rowston
Harry Rowston had a strong 2024 in the VFL and shows promise as a midfielder. While consistent senior opportunities may still be a season or two away, he’s a great long-term stash for deeper leagues.
Senior Players
Toby Greene
Toby Greene’s scoring days might be past their peak, but his low-70s average remains serviceable as a D5 option. As the team’s captain, he’ll still have moments where he contributes in the midfield and posts decent scores. If you’re contending, Greene is worth picking up late in drafts.
Stephen Coniglio
Stephen Coniglio’s value hinges on his ability to stay fit. With midfield departures at GWS, there’s potential for him to average well if injuries don’t hold him back. Contending teams should hold onto him, but those in rebuild mode should consider offloading him while he has a little bit of value.
Rookie Watch
Jack Ough
A versatile midfielder who can play both inside and outside roles, Jack Ough impressed in the Talent League last season and is one to watch closely in 2025. For more detailed insights, check out our draftee analysis guide or draftee bonus podcast.
