HAWTHORN

Grant Birchall: Suffered a pre-season setback when he injured his medial ligament at training but is a chance to return for the Hawks' third NAB Challenge match against St Kilda. The triple premiership player remains one of the game's consummate and most underrated defenders.

Kaiden Brand: Season in tatters after he dislocated his troublesome left shoulder in his first contest in the NAB Challenge opener against Collingwood. The yet-to-debut 198cm backman was developing nicely ahead of his third season on the list but has undergone a reconstruction and will be sidelined for up to five months.

Shaun Burgoyne: The man his teammates call 'Silk' is showing no signs of slowing down at age 32. Was one of the Hawks' best on Grand Final day when he picked up a third premiership medal (he won his first at Port Adelaide). The versatile star has enjoyed a standout pre-season, coming off the best of his five seasons at Hawthorn.

Taylor Duryea: An uncompromising back pocket, Duryea made the position his own last year in 23 games. He fended off competition from the likes of Angus Litherland to replace retired hard man Brent Guerra and was the substitute in the Grand Final after missing out in 2013. Will be keen to further cement his spot in 2015.

James Frawley: Looked shaky in his first NAB Challenge match as a Hawk with little senior support around him, but looms as a blue-chip investment once he finds his feet in the defensive system. The former Demon started pre-season earlier than the other senior players and is the heir apparent to Brian Lake at full-back.

Josh Gibson: Told AFL.com.au recently he has "done everything" this pre-season coming off a premiership year interrupted by a torn pectoral. Alastair Clarkson has flagged the two-time premiership backman being used up forward at times, but expect him to offer third-man up support, particularly to new boy Frawley, early in the year. 

Kurt Heatherley: New Zealand project player has taken great strides and looked at home in Hawthorn's defence during pre-season match simulation. The athletic 20-year-old is competitive, quick and reads the game well, but might need some good form for Box Hill and injuries to make his debut in 2015.

Daniel Howe: Talented draftee who impressed the longer the match wore on in his first appearance in the NAB Challenge. At 191cm he boasts good speed for his size and is composed with ball in hand. Needs to add some bulk and is likely to spend 2015 developing in the VFL. 

Brian Lake: Overcame niggling calf problems and a four-match suspension to play a vital role in last year’s flag. Some thought the 33-year-old might be pushed out by James Frawley's arrival, but the former Bulldog signed a one-year deal and should start the season as Hawthorn's No.1 key defender. 

Angus Litherland: Pacy and versatile backman has been one of the most impressive performers over the summer as he pushes to become a regular player. Made his debut and played 13 games in 2014. If he's not in the round one team, looms as the next in line for a defensive spot. 

Teia Miles: Son of former Collingwood, West Coast and Geelong player Geoff who was drafted as a small defender. A good competitor, Miles wasted no time getting in the thick of it against the Magpies in the NAB Challenge. Needs to add size and has been earmarked as a potential on-baller in years to come. 

Matt Spangher: The cult hero who finally tasted flag success last year has had an interrupted pre-season with another niggling calf injury. Has been on a modified program and could find it tough to claim a spot when round one rolls around.

Ben Stratton: Highly regarded West Australian continues to blossom as a defender and emerging leader. Was one of the few senior players charged with leading a youthful team in round one of the NAB Challenge. 

Matthew Suckling: Damaging defender had a slow start to pre-season after having part of his kneecap removed following the Grand Final. Was up and running in January and has been named in the Hawks' squad to play North Melbourne on Sunday. – Travis King

MELBOURNE

Lynden Dunn: Established himself at full-back in the past two seasons performing well in one-on-one duels, often against taller opponents. A booming kick he also takes responsibility for kick out duties. Now in control of his game, he is more consistent as a result.

Sam Frost: Tall, well built defender who managed 16 games with Greater Western Sydney last season. Frost is a competitor who still requires development but he is likely to get opportunities at Melbourne.

Colin Garland: Had bad luck with injury last season but has proved a solid defender who is prepared to run. Has improved his efforts when third man across and is a respected player.

Jack Grimes: After being tried as a midfielder, Grimes is going to settle at half-back, the position where he has performed best. After a disappointing 2014, he is primed for a big year. Needs to impact the game more but he has the talent and temperament to lift.

Neville Jetta: Jetta was a surprise packet in 2014 after being placed on the rookie list. Played well as a small defender, quelling players with the talent of Chad Wingard and Eddie Betts. Injury free, he has a long career ahead as a small defender. 

Heritier Lumumba: A premiership defender who will provide the Demons with run out of the backline, he brings experience and competitiveness to the line-up. Plays his 200th game in round one, but at just 28 he remains capable of taking up a wing position.

Oscar McDonald: Came to the fore in the second half of last season with the North Ballarat Rebels. He can play at either end of the ground but will be given time to develop the body and mind to cope with the rigours of being an AFL defender. McDonald is a promising type.

Tom McDonald: McDonald is a great endurance athlete who has performed well on the best opposition forwards early in his career. His disposal is not great but his decision-making is improving and he now attacks the game after winning possession with more of a plan about what he is going to do next. 

Christian Salem: Has stood out across half-back in pre-season trial games reading the play well and distributing the ball with class. Salem is a neat left foot kick and seems to have time when in possession. A quality recruit he will take another step this season.

Dean Terlich: Terlich is at the crossroads after an inconsistent 2014 that failed to build on an excellent debut season the previous year. Had a shoulder operation post-season and has had an interrupted pre-season but is doing extra running to catch up with the group.

Mitchell White: Burly rookie listed player who has a big enough body to play senior football but still needs to improve to make the grade. His 3km time trial was elite and he is a good left foot kick. - Peter Ryan

Jack Grimes looks likely to settle in the backline again this year with Tom McDonald alongside him

NORTH MELBOURNE

Shaun Atley: Set to spend some time in the midfield this year after training with the Roos' midfield group occasionally this pre-season, but remains North's most damaging defensive rebounder and will most likely call the half-back line home for most of 2015.

Sam Durdin: North's first pick in last year's NAB AFL Draft, at pick No.16 overall, Durdin is capable of playing as a tall forward but seems set to spend most of this first season at Arden Street in defence. Remarkably athletic and agile for his height (198cm) but needs to make the gym his second home over the next few years.

Michael Firrito: The veteran revived his career with an outstanding 2014 and will enter 2015 on the back of another solid pre-season. Rested against Adelaide last week, he makes his return against Hawthorn in Shepparton this Sunday. Gives the Roos flexibility with his ability to play on smalls and talls.

Nathan Grima: The luckless backman faces another three months on the sidelines after undergoing back surgery recently, but the 29-year-old remains one of North's best key defenders and the Roos are hopeful he can return in the second half of the season and have his usual impact.

Lachlan Hansen: The 26-year-old has been making steady progress in his rehabilitation from hip surgery at the end of last season but has yet to return to full training. North sorely missed the intercept defender in last year's finals series and won't rush him back. The Roos remain hopeful Hansen will be fit for their round one clash against Adelaide.

Ben Jacobs: Will be looking to build on his strong finish to 2014 when he carved a niche for himself at half-back. Not overly quick, but can be an effective counter-attacker with his raking left foot. Could spend some time in the midfield too.

Jamie Macmillan: Recently appointed to North's leadership group, Macmillan will be itching for round one to roll around after his injury-plagued 2014 season. Likely to drift up onto a wing at times this season, but should spend most of his time in defence. Underrated outside Arden Street, but an automatic senior selection when fit.

Luke McDonald: Was outstanding in his debut AFL season last year even when managing a back injury late in the season. Was used predominantly in defence in 2014 but is likely to push up into the midfield more often his year. Courageous, skilled and calm under pressure.

Scott McMahon: The South Australian has fallen out of favour over the past two seasons and played just five games last year. Out-of-contract at the end of 2015, this season shapes as make or break for the 28-year-old. In a bid to revive his career, the medium defender has shed about 6kg this pre-season.

Aaron Mullett: After falling out of favour ahead of last year's finals series, Mullett suffered a serious shoulder injury in January and will be sidelined for the first third of this season. One of North's most-effective rebounders with his run and pinpoint left foot, but needs to improve the defensive side of his game.

Daniel Nielson: The 194cm defender has impressed North's coaching staff with his fierce competitiveness this summer. Hates being beaten in one-on-one contests and is very strong for a first-year player. Earned a spot in last week's NAB Challenge clash against Adelaide and could push to make his AFL debut this year.

Robbie Tarrant: Has trained with North's defensive group ahead of a mooted move from attack this year, with the Roos hopeful he can become the 'gorilla' defender they've been lacking in recent seasons. After returning to full training in January, the 25-year-old has impressed in match practice and shapes as an important player for North early this year with Nathan Grima (back) sidelined.

Scott Thompson: The 2013 All Australian has fully recovered from minor knee surgery just before Christmas and will make his return against Hawthorn on Sunday. At 193cm, he can play on smalls and talls, while his ability to read the play has made him one of the best intercept defenders in the competition.

Joel Tippett: The former Sun has added 11kg to his frame since joining North at the end of 2013 and looks set to build on his encouraging debut season. Firmly in contention for a round one berth with Nathan Grima sidelined and, at 197cm, is big enough to match up on power forwards such Tom Hawkins and Lance Franklin.

Max Warren: Delisted at the end of last season, but North threw him a lifeline in the rookie draft. Has excelled as a lockdown small defender in the VFL but struggled in his one AFL game against the Brisbane Lions in round 15 last year and against Adelaide in last Sunday's NAB Challenge game.

Sam Wright: Was a revelation late last year after being allowed to settle in defence. A composed decision-maker and an excellent kick on both feet, Wright also thrives on lock-down assignments. Fully recovered from a knock at training two weeks ago and set to return against Hawthorn in Shepparton on Sunday. – Nick Bowen

PORT ADELAIDE

Logan Austin: Tall defender in his first year at the club who will take some time to develop into an AFL player. Good skills for a big guy and is back to full training after some shoulder surgery.

Matthew Broadbent: The Power's key rebounder with Jasper Pittard, Broadbent will continue his fine work across half-back this season. He could spend some time through the midfield but will be required in defence for the most part.

Darcy Byrne-Jones: A late bloomer by usual standards, Byrne-Jones is making fast progress at Alberton and has developed a reputation for his speed and aggression as a small defender. He hopes to put pressure on Jarman Impey in the senior team.

Alipate Carlile: Port's premier big-bodied defender usually gets the strongest opposition forward each week. Carlile has worked hard to improve his fitness in the past few seasons and his game has benefitted greatly as a result.

Sam Colquhoun: Played well in 2013 but ruptured his ACL early last year. He has entered the home straight of his rehabilitation and will offer the club good depth as a defender/midfielder this year.

Tom Clurey: The young key defender matches size with an incredible endurance, which makes him a difficult opponent to match up on. He made his debut last year and is next in line behind Alipate Carlile and Jackson Trengove.

Jack Hombsch: The key defender has locked his place in this impressive Power line-up, combining good size with agility and speed. He reads the play well and rarely gets beaten.

Jarman Impey: A small defender with impressive raw speed and a competitiveness that makes any small forward within striking distance nervous. Impey is a tenacious tackler who loves to run and carry the ball. 

Tom Jonas: Has developed quickly under coach Ken Hinkley and is one of the most underrated defenders in the competition. His place in Port's leadership group reflects his importance. A no-nonsense defender who nearly always gets the job done.

Cam O'Shea: One of the Power's versatile defenders, O'Shea has the height to handle taller opponents but the speed and agility to man up on small forwards. He is likely to spend some time in the SANFL but he has shown he can play great football at AFL level.

Jasper Pittard: His drive out of defence is so crucial to Port's attack, as is his run. He led the AFL for bounces last year. Pittard has honed his skills this pre-season as he showed in the club's internal match simulation.

Sam Russell: A serious hamstring injury severely hampered his 2014 season, but he returned to feature in the club's SANFL Grand Final appearance. A small, speedy defender who will look to improve his foot skills at SANFL level this year.

Jackson Trengove: Still in line for round one despite shoulder surgery, Trengove is up there as one of the team's most important cogs. His aggression and leadership as a key defender is superb and the Power find it difficult to replace him when injured. - Harry Thring

RICHMOND

David Astbury: Has effectively completed a double pre-season since recovering from a dislocated knee cap last year and will form a key part of the back six. Hasn't missed a beat in training and has impressed with his growing leadership traits.

Jake Batchelor: After working his way into the senior team in the second half of last season, Batchelor is looking to secure a role across half-back in 2015. Has used his size well in training and was impressive rebounding in the opening NAB Challenge match against the Western Bulldogs.

Jason Castagna: Produced an eye-catching performance against the Bulldogs, using his speed and rebounding ability and winning 12 possessions. The rookie recruit is likely to spend the season in the VFL where improving his disposal efficiency will be a focus.

Troy Chaplin: Played every game last season and shapes as a wise head in the backline again in 2015. Has dropped weight and is moving better this pre-season, completing all work required of him. Was left out of the Tigers' first NAB Challenge match but should feature before round one.

Matt Dea: An attacking and versatile small defender, Dea has been managed because of some niggles and soreness in his sixth pre-season. He did not feature in the opening pre-season game and isn't guaranteed game time ahead of round one.

Todd Elton: The tall defender was impressive in the opening pre-season game, shutting down Tom Boyd and proving he will add depth in the backline key posts. Has been managed at times over the summer but has a good fitness base and is one of the Tigers' most durable players.

Dylan Grimes: The versatile defender played a key role against the Bulldogs, but will likely settle as a third tall defender this season. Valued for his ability to play tall or small, he has enjoyed an injury-free pre-season and has built his speed and endurance.

Bachar Houli: Will play a high half-back role for the Tigers this season, utilising his ability to push onto a wing when needed. Has been running like a midfielder over the pre-season and will feature in later pre-season games.

Ben Lennon: A solid performer in pre-season training, Lennon can be used as a half-forward or half-back but he has done the majority of his work with the defenders. Has rebounded well from hip surgery at the end of last season.

Kamdyn McIntosh: A terrific pre-season has seen the 21-year-old settle among the Tigers' top four runners, making him one the club's most improved trainers. He is handling the workload better in his third pre-season and will push for wing and half-back roles at AFL level.

Steven Morris: After recovering from a shoulder injury pre-Christmas, the small defender appears set for a shift forward as a replacement for the retired Jake King. The hard-nosed Tiger will be expected to create scoring opportunities with his defensive pressure in the new role.

Chris Newman: Restricted pre-Christmas, the veteran has completed all required work since and is on track to feature in pre-season games. Has trained with the defenders and forwards, with the Tigers keen to use him in both roles this season.

Alex Rance: An impressive pre-season has him well-poised to back up his All Australian 2014 campaign. The Tigers are keen to give their young key defenders more game time, which would free Rance up to play more versatile roles. Has barely missed a session.

Nick Vlastuin: Entering his third season, Vlastuin is shaping as the Tigers' No.1 small defender in 2015 if Steven Morris is moved into the forward line. Impressive against the Bulldogs in a lockdown role, he is also going to be a preferred ball-user out of defence and has the ability to re-join the midfield rotation when needed. - Nathan Schmook

Troy Chaplin may look to tone down the celebrations after this faux par in 2014 against the Power

ST KILDA

Luke Delaney: Hasn't missed much of the pre-season after getting over post-season hip surgery. Is important to the backline's structure and will be relied on to be the general in defence again while playing on the big power forwards. 

Sean Dempster: The ever-durable former Swan has had a strong pre-season without any injury concerns, indicating he will continue to set them up in defence and provide leadership to the younger players. 

Sam Fisher: The Saints' oldest player has put in the type of pre-season that indicates he should be more durable this year than he has in the past two. Understands his body and is managing it well, and is expected to hold up to bring some experience to the backline this year. 

Jarryn Geary: Remains in the leadership group for the second season and has had a strong summer, with the exception of a week when he missed with a minor complaint. Will continue to build on his leadership skills this season and get back to his best after playing only seven games last year because of an elbow injury. 

Sam Gilbert: Isn't expected to figure at any level until about round six with further surgery on his problematic left foot late last season delaying his start to training. Started running this week as part of his conservative recovery from the fracture, and is looking for a change of luck after two injury-hit years. 

Hugh Goddard: Is learning the craft of a key defender and will look to increase his body size over the next few years. Faces strong competition for a spot in the backline if the senior players stay fit but has shown a willingness to learn and has put in a strong pre-season to date. 

Dylan Roberton: Had a slight setback this week after developing hamstring soreness against the Brisbane Lions but had put in the hard yards before that. The Saints will look to use him as the linkman between defence to attack, but an increase in body size means he can also present as an option to pick up tall forwards from time to time. 

Shane Savage: Will be settled across half-back where he showed promise in the second half of last season, using his running power and ball use. Won't figure in any more NAB Challenge games after tweaking his hamstring this week but is still expected to be available for round one.  

Cameron Shenton: Put in a decent game against the Lions after being upgraded from the rookie list after three years. Is versatile, can play on tall and small opponents but can also play a role running the ball out of defence. Will look to start the year well. 

Tom Simpkin: Was tracking well and had worked hard over summer before he needed minor knee surgery four weeks ago. Is coming back into training now and will look to ramp things up in a few weeks. Is expected to play more down back after being trialled at times as a forward last year. 

Jimmy Webster: Another who was training well until he tore a tendon in his finger three weeks ago. Had surgery and will miss another 4-5 weeks, which means he might miss the start of the season, despite starting running this week. Will look at a role from half-back to back pocket to help set up the team offensively. 

Nathan Wright: Has battled a calf during the pre-season after two seasons hampered by collision injuries but has trained hard around it. Will be looked at to fill a defensive role at times if he can stay fit, given his strengths one-on-one, and provide run out of defence with a slightly more attacking focus. - Jennifer Phelan

SYDNEY SWANS

Aliir Aliir: Entering his second season with the Swans, the young Sudan-born defender has continued to work closely with the club's senior backmen with a focus on improving his consistency. Boasts good closing speed and size and should make gains in the NEAFL after a full pre-season.   

Heath Grundy: One of the Swans' key pillars in defence, Grundy has enjoyed an injury-free summer and remains one of the club's most durable players. He has impressed all pre-season in match simulation training when matching up on tall forwards Lance Franklin and Kurt Tippett, which will hold him in good stead for the year ahead. 

Lewis Jetta: Could be poised for a move to half-back to cover the loss of Nick Malceski. The damaging wingman is still training a lot with the midfielders, but the club has worked on his defensive game to get him ready for a half-back role, where his run and penetrating kick would be assets. Will play a number of roles through the NAB Challenge and has been injury-free all summer.   

Alex Johnson: The luckless defender is preparing to undergo a fourth knee reconstruction after infections undermined his recovery from three previous knee operations. The Swans have discussed giving him a line-coaching role with the NEAFL team this year given he will be sidelined for the entire season. 

Zak Jones: A minor ankle injury kept the tough youngster out of the opening NAB Challenge match, but he is still expected to play pre-season games ahead of round one. After Jones' debut last season, the Swans hope he can follow the path set by Nick Smith and become a shutdown small defender with rebounding capabilities. 

Jeremy Laidler: One of the standouts this summer at the Swans, Laidler has strung two solid pre-seasons together after an injury-interrupted run at Carlton. Appears to have cemented his role in the backline as an intercepting player who can also shut down an opponent. The Swans have high expectations of the 25-year-old. 

Sean McLaren: Listed at 198cm, the young rookie has slotted in as a key position prospect with the Swans rather than a ruckman. Gives the club depth in its tall stocks, but will spend the year developing in the NEAFL having hardly missed a session over the summer. 

Lewis Melican: The youngest player on the Swans' list, the rookie key defender has been noted this pre-season for his ability to pick up the game-plan and slot in during match simulation. Has a strong defensive game, typified by desperate smothers and tackles. 

Nic Newman: The rookie defender has been in rehab ever since he joined the club after suffering a knee injury on his first day of training. He is expected to be available to play by round one and will cut his teeth in the NEAFL, where he will likely play across half-back.   

Dane Rampe: Has quickly established himself as a mainstay in the Swans' backline in just two seasons, playing every game last year. Injury free, he has completed a heavy running workload, ranking No. 3 in the 3km time trial. The club has been keen to establish a second string to his game and he could be used more through the midfield in 2015.  

Ted Richards: After a strong pre-Christmas training phase, Richards returned and suffered a hamstring tear that sidelined him for four weeks. The 32-year-old is back in training but missed the Swans' opening NAB Challenge match against the Brisbane Lions on Friday night. 

Xavier Richards: Boasting electric pace for a 195cm defender, Richards is seen as an eventual replacement for the Swans' older key position players. Has worked closely with older brother Ted on his strength and bodywork in contests and will be given NAB Challenge opportunities.    

Gary Rohan: Has worked closely with the defenders this pre-seasons, with the Swans hoping to capitalise on his line-breaking ability off half-back. Suffered a two-week hamstring injury post-Christmas, but is ready for the NAB Challenge. 

Rhyce Shaw: At 33, Shaw still has an important role to play as a rebounding half-back for the Swans. His pre-season load has been managed, but he has completed everything asked of him and stepped straight in to play the first NAB Challenge match.  

Nick Smith: Enters the new season as one of the game's most respected small defenders following his All-Australian selection in 2014. Has worked a lot in tandem with the small forwards, trying to improve his defensive bodywork. An important member of the backline because of his ability to shutdown the best small forwards and also provide direction to teammates. – Nathan Schmook

Rhyce Shaw and Gary Rohan represent the generational change coming in the Swans' backline

WEST COAST

Corey Adamson: The former baseballer will go through a development year. He was an outstanding junior footballer but did not play the game at all for six years. The Eagles are developing him into a running half-back. He has been given the task of playing on Josh Kennedy during some match simulation sessions to try to accelerate his learning.  

Tom Barrass: Didn't play a senior game in his first year and hardly played any football in the WAFL because of injury. But he has had a good pre-season and may feature now in the absence of Eric Mackenzie. At 194cm he is a good size and has added some bulk in the gym. Will need to learn on the job but has the talent to by all reports.  

Jamie Bennell: Talented running defender who showed glimpses last season. Adam Simpson sent him back to the WAFL mid-year to work on some of the defensive aspects of his game but he responded. Bennell was impressive against Carlton in the first NAB Challenge game, even drifting forward and kicking a goal. Looks set to be in the Eagles' best 22.

Paddy Brophy: The Irishman has slipped under the radar at West Coast but he has impressed with his ability to adapt. He is a tough competitor and they like him in a defensive role to utilise his pace. He has good skills for someone new to the game. Likely to start in the WAFL and might be in contention for senior selection if he shows good form. 

Mitch Brown: The injury to Eric Mackenzie means Brown assumes the mantle as the No.1 key defender and becomes vitally important to the side. He is glad he stayed after requesting a trade a few years ago and has had an injury-free pre-season. Was held out of the first NAB Challenge clash but will return to face Port Adelaide on Sunday. 

Sam Butler: Had a renaissance in late 2014 and was honoured with a one-year contract. Seems to have sorted some of the injury issues that have plagued him over his career. Following the retirement of his close friend Beau Waters, Butler is the only surviving member of the 2006 premiership team. Will play a role for Adam Simpson. He may not play every game in the seniors but he will be required at important stages and will be ready to deliver when called upon.  

Xavier Ellis: The former Hawk became an important asset to West Coast last year after moving over under free agency. His ball use is exemplary and he is a key component to the side off half-back. His leadership is also invaluable for Adam Simpson as the second-year coach continues to implement a new strategy based on what Ellis played under at Hawthorn. 

Shannon Hurn: Was named captain during the pre-season after shining as an acting captain last season following the retirement of Darren Glass. Vitally important player to the Eagles, not just for his leadership and his ability to marshal the defence, but more importantly for his kicking. Teams tag Hurn in defence because his ball use is so damaging.  

Eric Mackenzie: It is a huge blow for the Eagles to have the reigning best and fairest miss the entire season because of a knee reconstruction. His injury seemed so innocuous when he fell to the ground against the Blues in the second term. He was unlucky not to win All-Australian honours in the each of the past two seasons.

Dylan Main: Young medium-sized utility who has the capabilities to play both forward and back. Played against the Indigenous All Stars and was used mainly in defence when he got his opportunity. Did not play a senior home and away game in 2014 and might be hard pressed to do so this season but injuries and form may give him an opportunity.

Jeremy McGovern: He has gone from being banished from pre-season training in the 2014 pre-season to one of the most important players in the side given the current injury crisis. Few players can play in defence, attack and even pinch-hit in the ruck as well as McGovern can. He will be used down back mostly after the loss of Mackenzie but Adam Simpson had every intention of using him there anyway in a sweeping role. He will swing forward when required.  

Jackson Nelson: The 18-year-old has been impressive in the pre-season and has been rewarded with two appearances against the Indigenous All Stars and Carlton. He is a tenacious defender who plays taller than his 186cm suggest. He used the ball well in his two appearances and has impressed his teammates with his competitiveness. 

Will Schofield: Like Mitch Brown he takes on greater responsibility now the Eagles have lost Eric Mackenzie. He is one of the most versatile defenders in the Eagles line-up due to his height, speed and endurance. He will be stretched at times with some of the jobs he will have but he is a selfless player. It is a good opportunity for him to become an integral part of the best 22. 

Brad Sheppard: Has looked impressive during his two pre-season games against the Indigenous All Stars and Carlton. Adam Simpson has asked for Sheppard to step up and he is performing well as a medium-sized half-back who can be used as a distributor from defence. Appears set to be in the first-choice 22. - Alex Malcolm

WESTERN BULLDOGS

Shane Biggs: The former Swan looms as a handy pick for the Dogs, possessing sure foot skills and the ability to run and carry. Despite recent bone bruising in his foot, Biggs looks primed for a round one spot. 

Zaine Cordy: The father-son recruit will miss the first few months of the season after having a shoulder reconstruction in January. The Geelong Falcons product has the ability to play tall or small. 

Sam Darley: The former Giant played just five games in his debut season with the Bulldogs last season, but the running defender should be aiming to play a lot more this year, with his run and kicking skills not in abundant supply at Whitten Oval. 

Matthew Fuller: It was a disappointing first year at Whitten Oval for the mature-age recruit from the SANFL. He will need a big 2015 if he is to remain at the club, but he should get plenty of opportunities at senior level if his form warrants it.

Brett Goodes: Redrafted as a rookie after only two seasons on the senior list, the 31-year-old is an insurance if injuries strike. 

Declan Hamilton: The nephew of Darren and Andrew Jarman has coped well with the demands of his first pre-season at AFL level. A smart and creative running defender who uses the ball well.

Joel Hamling: After three years at Geelong without cracking a senior game, the key defender should plenty of opportunities to make his long-awaited debut at the Dogs. Did some nice things in the NAB Challenge win over Richmond last weekend.

Jason Johannisen: The 22-year-old should become a key plank in new coach Luke Beveridge's attacking game plan. The South African-born speedster loves to run and carry, but needs to work on the defensive side of his game.

Jordan Kelly: After failing to play a senior game in three years at Hawthorn, the 21-year-old is given another chance on the Dogs' rookie list.  The medium defender is strong overhead and a good decision-maker.

Dale Morris: A pillar of the Dogs' defence for a decade, Morris still has a big role to play down back. The veteran will also be on-field coach to emerging defenders Michael Talia, Fletcher Roberts and Zaine Cordy.

Robert Murphy: The new skipper showed in week one of the NAB Challenge he has lost none of his skill or speed. The 32-year-old is a vital cog down back, but his leadership will be just as important.

Daniel Pearce: The dashing small defender finds himself on the rookie list after battling injuries in his first three seasons at the club. Needs to have a big season in 2015.

Fletcher Roberts: The developing tall has battled groin tightness recently, but the club has high hopes for him as a long-term key defender. The 21-year-old is strong overhead and has the ability to push forward.

Jordan Roughead: Recently elevated to vice-captain, the 24-year-old will go toe-to-toe with the competition's monster forwards again. The jury is still out on whether he is a better ruck/forward than defender. 

Michael Talia: With the Dogs crying out for more height down back, 2015 looms as a big year for the 22-year-old. Had a good start to the NAB Challenge, defending stoutly and using the ball well.

Lukas Webb: The hard-running midfielder possesses a deadly left boot and his arrival will help address the Dogs' shortage of elite kicks. The draftee will start his tenure at Whitten Oval playing across half-back while he builds an AFL-standard physique and tank. 

Easton Wood: The 25-year-old was one of the Dogs' best in the NAB Challenge win over Richmond last weekend, with his strong overhead marking and run a standout. He gives Luke Beveridge plenty of flexibility with his ability to play tall or small. - Ryan Davidson