In the world of GDS AFL Fantasy, picking the players that thrive and live up to their hype is key, but often we expect everyone to be better. Every season, players experience regression—where their fantasy output dips below expectations—and then there are some that rebound, where they bounce back to deliver big scores. Whether it's due to injury, change in role, or simple variance, understanding the ebb and flow of player performance is essential for fantasy success.
We will explore players who I believe will have some regression or rebound in their fantasy scoring output coming into the 2025 season. Whether you're a seasoned fantasy coach or a newcomer, recognizing patterns of regression ir rebound could be the key to gaining an edge over your competition.
Players Likely to Experience Score Regression in 2025
1. Dayne Zorko – Age and Role Changes
Reason for Regression: At 36 years old when the season starts, Zorko is on the tail end of his career, and his role could start to diminish as Brisbane brings in younger talent. His minutes on the field might be reduced to manage his body, and as we’ve seen with aging players, their ability to maintain high tackle numbers and contested possessions can decline. Additionally, the return of key players like Keidean Coleman and the emergence of younger midfielders might further reduce his role in the game plan.
2. Lachie Whitfield – Injury History and Team Structure
Reason for Regression: Injuries have been a recurring theme in Whitfield’s career, with age (30) and a history of injury issues, there's concern that he might not be able to maintain the high levels of output we’ve seen in previous seasons. Moreover, GWS's team structure might be shifted with the departure of players and a deeper midfield rotation, which could reduce his freedom to accumulate disposals as a defensive outlet. With less lockdown defenders in the backlines, Whitfield may see fewer opportunities to rack up big scores.
3. Adam Treloar – Role in a Changing Midfield
Reason for Regression: With the Bulldogs’ midfield rotation becoming more competitive, Treloar’s role could be under threat. Players like Tom Liberatore, Marcus Bontempelli, and Ed Richards have solidified their spots in the midfield, and there’s a constant influx of younger talent. Treloar’s tackling numbers have been steady, but without as much midfield time, his ability to generate fantasy points may suffer. Additionally, Treloar’s 32 at the start of the season and past injury concerns could mean more management of his body and a reduction in his minutes, further limiting his fantasy output.
4. Lachie Neale – A High Ceiling but Potential for Regression
Reason for Regression: The emergence of Brisbane’s midfield depth, especially with players like Will Ashcroft and the growing influence of younger players, could reduce Neale’s role as the primary ball-winner. While Neale will remain an important player for Brisbane, as the team strengthens, there could be more balance in how midfield responsibilities are shared, which may result in fewer disposals or tackles for Neale.
Premium AFL Fantasy Players Set for a Rebound in 2025
1. Clayton Oliver (Melbourne) – Past His injuries and issues
Why the Rebound is Likely: A key factor (amongst other documented problems) in Oliver’s 2024 downturn was the ongoing injuries that hampered his ability to get back to full fitness. With a full pre-season under his belt, Oliver is set to reclaim his spot as one of the AFL's top fantasy scorers. Additionally, Melbourne's midfield setup should stabilize in 2025. The Demons' reliance on Oliver as their primary midfield engine, especially in contested ball situations, is expected to result in more fantasy points as his fitness improves. If Melbourne can remain injury-free, Oliver will return to his elite fantasy status.
2. Jack Macrae (Western Bulldogs) – Give the bloke the keys
Why the Rebound is Likely: Macrae was often forced into a less prominent role due to the Western Bulldogs' midfield rotations and the emergence of other midfielders like Marcus Bontempelli and Ed Richards. However, with the trade to Stkilda Macrae should be the beneficiary of more midfield minutes in 2025. This will allow Macrae to thrive in a more prominent role, As the as the Stkilda focus on a more balanced midfield in 2025, Macrae’s fantasy output will likely return to elite levels.
4. Rory Laird (Adelaide) – Back to the Future
Why the Rebound is Likely: Adelaide has gone through a series of changes over the past few years, and 2025 is expected to bring more stability. With the addition of young talent and an evolving game plan, Laird could return to his role as one of the most influential ball users in the Crows’ backline. A change in defensive tactics, where Laird is more integrated into the offense, will increase his ball-winning potential. The improvement of Adelaide’s overall midfield will also provide more opportunities for Laird to rack up disposals. With these factors in play, Laird is primed for a return to the elite fantasy scorer he once was.
5. Luke Parker (Sydney Swans) – Leadership for the hapless Roo’s
Why the Rebound is Likely: Parker's fantasy production was affected by injuries and a crowded midfield at the swans in 2024. The trade to the kangaroos looking to solidify their midfield rotations and provide leadership in 2025, Parker should see an uptick in his role. The Kangaroos will likely rely on Parker’s experience and leadership, providing him with more midfield time. If North Melbourne can improve their overall team performance, Parker will get more opportunities to rack up contested possessions and clearances, making him a prime candidate for a fantasy resurgence.
Remember when looking at the 2025 season we are always keen to see blokes get back to their best or expect them to continue with natural progression, however every year we see player outputs dip as they move past their best or their roles change.
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