Given the state of Richmond’s list, it’s tough to identify many fantasy-relevant players emerging over the next few years. While there are some players in good fantasy roles, the Tigers will likely struggle to win the footy and generate enough possessions to sustain multiple fantasy options. That said, here are a few names worth considering.
Undervalued Players
Tom Lynch
In his prime, Lynch was capable of averaging well into the 80s, but those days seem behind him. The potential is still there if he can get his body right, but with Richmond’s struggles, there might not be enough delivery into the forward line for him to be a viable fantasy option. If he plays further up the ground, he might offer more value, but his body may not allow that. He could be a handy bench option if he stays fit.
Thomson Dow
Like his brother, Dow doesn’t have a strong fantasy pedigree. His average dropped to 51.6 in 2024, which isn’t encouraging. However, he is next in line behind established midfielders Tim Taranto, Jacob Hopper, and Dion Prestia. If injuries strike, he may get an opportunity, but significant improvement is needed to become relevant.
James Trezise
Trezise impressed with a 77-point debut in 2023, which probably saw him drafted higher than he deserved in 2024. He plays the right role as a half-back but will need Richmond to start winning more of the ball for his scoring to improve. At 22, he is more mature than some of his teammates and could develop into a solid fantasy contributor in the coming years.
Jack Ross
If Ross were going to be a strong fantasy player, it likely would have happened by now. Still, he is becoming one of Richmond’s senior players and should get a consistent run of games in 2025. However, his outside role isn’t ideal for fantasy, especially in a struggling side like Richmond.
Breakout Candidates
Tyler Sonsie
Sonsie had a promising debut but has since regressed. Many fantasy coaches still hold hope based on his underage scoring and early exposure to senior footy. He’s now been in the system long enough that he should be ready to take the next step, but given Richmond’s struggles, he may not see enough of the ball to be relevant. He’s worth a late draft pick in case he secures a midfield role, but expectations should be tempered.
Hugo Ralphsmith
Initially intriguing as a half-back option, Ralphsmith has found himself on the wing. That role is not ideal for fantasy scoring in the modern game, especially in a side that will struggle to maintain possession. He is becoming a senior figure in Richmond’s young squad, so he’s one to monitor, but expectations should be low.
Stash Options
Kane McAuliffe
McAuliffe was a contested beast at the underage level and is exactly the type of player Richmond needs to develop. He should get some game time in 2025, but he’s likely still a year or two away from consistent AFL performances and reliable fantasy scoring. A long-term stash option at best.
Rookie Watch
Sam Lalor
Lalor was the No.1 pick in the 2024 National Draft. His underage fantasy scoring record wasn’t outstanding, but he has plenty of potential to develop into a strong scorer. Richmond added several draftees this year, and while we can’t cover them all in this article, you can find more information in our Draftee Analysis Guide and Draftee Analysis Podcast.
Support the podcast by becoming a member.
