Matt Roberts celebrates after the Preliminary Final between Sydney and Port Adelaide at the SCG, September 20, 2024. Picture: Getty Images

PICKING defenders in AFL Fantasy Classic is proving to be a challenge. There doesn’t appear to be a tried-and-true method to choosing the right structure and there are few must-have players.

The Traders have locked in Jayden Short (DEF, $825,000), but it is with little confidence. They are hoping he can return to the 90-plus average he has done in the past as he will need to lead the Tigers’ young backline.

Matt Roberts (DEF, $780,000) offers value based on how he finished 2024. He won the Michael Barlow Medal for the Cash Cow of the Year off the back of his 104 average in his last seven games.

The Swan joined Roy, Calvin and Warnie to chat about his pre-season and ask the hard question: will he select himself in AFL Fantasy Classic.

Roberts tells the Official AFL Fantasy Podcast that Callum Mills (DEF, $759,000) is a lock as he’s playing exclusively through the midfield, a role where he had averaged 110-plus across two seasons. He also names up some young players who could make some cash this year in Fantasy Classic.

The Traders run through defenders on their radar in both Classic and Draft from the premiums at the top, the mid-priced value players through to the all-important cash cows.

Listen to the AFL Fantasy Podcast with The Traders at Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Episode guide

0:30 - Roy says defenders will separate the good teams
4:50 - Jayden Short and Callum Mills are the early DEF locks
6:40 - Is Keidean Coleman an option?
8:05 - Roy's defenders revealed led by Harry Sheezel
11:00 - You'll get what you pay for with Jack Sinclair
13:50 - Other value options to consider
18:05 - Sam De Koning is one to watch for role
20:30 - Rookie watchlist
25:25 - Matt Roberts joins the show to discuss his pre-season
28:20 - Where will Callum Mills play?
30:15 - Dean Cox hasn't changed too much
31:30 - Cheap Swans to consider
33:50 - Fantasy Draft thoughts
37:35 - Questions from social media - follow @AFLFantasy on X, @aflfantasy on Instagram and like the Official AFL Fantasy facebook page
43:05 - Thoughts on Arie Schoenmaker

Get expert advice from The Traders during the pre-season in the Fantasy Hub. Follow AFL Fantasy on X and Instagram and 'like' the Facebook page to join in the conversation.