THERE'S no reason why talented midfielders Jack Redden and Lewis Jetta shouldn't deliver on their potential for West Coast this season, according to coach Adam Simpson. 

After crossing to Perth as hyped recruits during the 2015 NAB AFL Trade Period, Redden and Jetta endured underwhelming debut campaigns in 2016 for the Eagles.

A pre-season hernia operation and groin issues hampered Redden, with the former Brisbane Lions tough nut averaging just 16 possessions from his 15 appearances. 

Meanwhile, ex-Sydney onballer Jetta was dropped three times by the Eagles after struggling to impact matches with his trademark outside run and damaging ball use. 

But Simpson believes the pair could be poised to rediscover their best following standout summers on the training track. 

"They've both come back with a really good attitude, they've done extra work and they've had full pre-seasons," Simpson told 6PR.

"So there's absolutely no excuses at the moment that I can see they would have in regards to the prep they've had.

"They've both been in our top 10 in terms of training and turning up each session, they haven't missed a beat … but the proof will be in the pudding once we start playing."

West Coast's engine room misfired when it counted last season as the Eagles bombed out in a home elimination final defeat to the Western Bulldogs.

But the stunning addition of Hawthorn champion Sam Mitchell has raised expectations again for 2017 - despite the blow of losing superstar ruckman Nic Naitanui to an ACL tear.

Some have questioned whether Mitchell and fellow Brownlow medallist Matt Priddis playing together could expose West Coast for pace, but Simpson's primary concern is for the Eagles to win their share of possession.

"I'm aware of the fact those two boys aren't 100m sprinters, but if they're getting it 35 (times) each I'll take that as well, so we've just got to find that balance," he said. 

Simpson expected competition for spots to be red-hot during the upcoming JLT Community Series, with former club champion Eric Mackenzie among those pushing from outside the best 22.

Mackenzie is aiming to win back a key defensive post after struggling in his return from a knee reconstruction in 13 games last year. 

"He's trained the house down. I thought we did give him a pretty good opportunity (last year), it's just unfortunately he didn't adapt to how we played and got into a bit of a form slump," Simpson said. 

"We've got some pretty good options down back at the moment with (Jeremy) McGovern, (Tom) Barrass, (Will) Schofield and Mackenzie but they all can't play in the side, so we'll just pick who's in best form."

The Eagles are set to take a youthful squad to face Greater Western Sydney in Narrandera on February 18, with draftees Josh Rotham and electric forward Willie Rioli in the mix for club debuts.

"Young Willie Rioli has been exceptional at training," Simpson said. "He's got skill and talent and he likes forward pressure as well, which suits us." 

West Coast will then face Fremantle in Geraldton on February 25 and Melbourne at Domain Stadium on March 9 in the build-up to round one.