
The Melbourne Demons find themselves at a crossroads heading into the 2025 AFL season. When their best players are fit and firing, they are undoubtedly finals contenders. However, if they falter as they did in 2024, it could signal a changing of the guard within the team, opening up opportunities for emerging talent.
Breakout Candidates
Judd McVee
Judd McVee is poised for a breakout season in 2025. Despite Melbourne’s unsuccessful pursuit of Dan Houston to fill a halfback distributor role, McVee has shown he has the composure and skill set to take on this position. Reviewing his performances from last year highlights his ability to use the ball efficiently and make good decisions under pressure. With Christian Salem and Jake Bowey perennially injured, McVee could solidify himself as Melbourne’s key halfback distributor, potentially becoming their highest-scoring defender.
Caleb Windsor
Caleb Windsor spent most of last season on the wing before a syndesmosis injury cut his year short. Reports suggest he’s fully recovered and may transition to a halfback role in 2025. A move to halfback is likely to boost his fantasy scoring compared to his wing role, and his underage pedigree only adds to his appeal. If Windsor capitalises on this role change, he could emerge as a fantasy player for your team.
Undervalued Players
Clayton Oliver
Clayton Oliver’s off-field issues contributed to his uncharacteristic 77 average last season. However, early reports from preseason indicate he’s back on track and looking fit. With Christian Petracca sidelined and behind in his preseason preparation, Oliver may assume primary ball-winning responsibilities in the midfield. If Oliver is physically and mentally prepared, he should comfortably average above 95 in 2025.
Jacob Van Rooyan
While Jacob Van Rooyan is unlikely to ever be a high fantasy scorer, he’s a viable streaming option. Last season, he stepped up in ruck duties during Max Gawn’s absence and demonstrated his ability to take on ruck duties, and also take marks around the ground whilst taking on this role. Although Tom Campbell’s recruitment may limit his ruck opportunities, Van Rooyan remains a capable depth option for an F5 position, but I’d never expect more than a 70 average throughout his career.
Harry Sharp
Harry Sharp could see increased opportunities if Caleb Windsor transitions to halfback. Sharp’s previous scoring history doesn’t suggest a high ceiling, but with a potential wing role opening up, he may deliver better-than-expected results. However, consider him as a potential depth player rather than a top-tier option.
Stash Options
Koltyn Tholstrup
Koltyn Tholstrup is a prospect worth monitoring. Likely to play primarily as a forward with occasional midfield stints, Tholstrup’s potential warrants a draft-and-stash approach for keeper leagues, especially for those playing the long game.
Senior Players
Max Gawn
Max Gawn’s scoring should remain elite, though his workload could be managed depending on Melbourne’s ladder position. If the Demons are in finals contention, Gawn will play most games. However, if their season falters, expect rest periods to preserve his longevity. With Tom Campbell recruited to support him, Gawn’s value may decline slightly, making this an opportune time to maximise his trade value if you’re not contending for a flag.
Steven May
Steven May’s 75.8 average from last season includes two sub-affected scores, indicating his true scoring potential is higher. He consistently takes marks in defence and handles kickouts, making him a reliable late draft option. While he will rarely produce massive scores, he’s a dependable D5 candidate who can deliver steady returns.
Rookie Watch
Harvey Langford
Harvey Langford, Melbourne’s highest-rated rookie from the 2024 AFL Draft, is expected to see plenty of game time in 2025. For detailed insights into Langford’s fantasy potential, along with other draftees, refer to our draftee analysis guide or listen to our draftee analysis podcast.
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