The Swans have undergone some changes in personnel and structure, but that doesn’t mean they’re short on fantasy potential this season. Whether it’s an injury-affected captain ready to rebound, a young gun poised to break out, or a rookie looking to make their mark, there’s plenty of interest across the board. Below are my takes on the players you should be keeping an eye on.
Undervalued Players
Callum Mills
Callum Mills only appears in this category because his average last season was dragged down by injury. He’s the captain of the Sydney Swans and one of their most experienced players. Word is that Mills is returning to a midfield role, which sets him up for some solid fantasy output—especially since he’s listed as a defender. Draft him with confidence, as he’s a prime candidate for a bounce-back season.
Breakout Candidates
Matt Roberts
Matt Roberts was on the verge of a true breakout last year, but a mid-season slump and multiple games as the sub slowed him down. He caught fire toward the end of the season, scoring 90+ in each of his final six rounds of 2025. With the likelihood he’ll be the main distributor off halfback and taking the kick-ins, there’s no reason to doubt he can continue that form in 2025. Pencil him in as a serious breakout threat.
Angus Sheldrick
Angus Sheldrick is one of those names that’s fallen off people’s radars. But with Luke Parker departing the Swans and Taylor Adams often sidelined, there’s a decent chance Sheldrick can break into the team at some point. We all saw glimpses of his potential two seasons ago. If he locks down a permanent spot in Sydney’s engine room, he could become a valuable MID/FWD piece for your keeper league squad.
Stash Options
Caiden Cleary
Cleary managed to debut last season and showed some promising signs. He was a prolific scorer at underage level, averaging over 100 in both the Talent League and the 2023 Under-18 Championships. He’s probably a while away from cementing a permanent role at Sydney—especially in the midfield—but once he does, expect reliable production. Pick him up now as a long-term stash and reap the rewards down the track.
Senior Players
Jake Lloyd
Jake Lloyd is past his prime as a fantasy prospect, largely due to losing his halfback role last season. He’s been pushed further up the ground onto a wing, which isn’t ideal for piling up fantasy points. Still, he flashed his ceiling with a monster 149 in finals, showing he can produce the odd big score. In mid-range keeper leagues, he’s likely to pop up in your draft pool. He could be a solid D3–D4 option on your list.
Rookie Watch
Riley Bice
Riley Bice arrived from the Werribee Tigers, a club that’s produced a few quality mature-age recruits over the last few years. He plays a fantasy-friendly role off the halfback flank, which can translate well to AFL fantasy scoring. If he can break into the Swans side, he might provide solid returns. For more details on him and other newcomers, check out our Draftee Analysis Guide and Draftee Podcast.
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