LOCK THEM IN NOW

Patrick Cripps (MID, $793,000) had a breakout season last year, elevating himself from Fantasy star to superstar after increasing his average by 10 points to 109. Although he is a prime target to receive the tag each week, his inside work and elite tackling make him almost impossible to stop. We saw this illustrated after the bye, when he had a low score of 96 in the last 11 weeks while also demonstrating an impressive ceiling with 162 in that time.

TRACK THEIR PRESEASON

Matthew Kreuzer (RUC, $576,000) is an interesting option in the ruck given many coaches are looking for a value pick to pair with future Pig Brodie Grundy. Fear of Braydon Pruess (RUC, $342,000) being named to play alongside Max Gawn (RUC, $808,000) has opened up a position in many teams, and if fit Special K is undeniable value given he averaged a whopping 107 in 2017 and is priced at an average of 79.

DUAL POSITION TEMPTER

Will Setterfield (FWD/MID, $251,000) is not only a tempter, he is an absolute lock, especially now he has been given forward status. The star junior who had a horrible run of luck with injuries at the Giants is raring to go and will slot straight into the Blues midfield … and our teams.

NEW STRIPES (RIGHT PRICE)

Nic Newman (DEF, $552,000) has become especially relevant following the news of Docherty's injury. The out of favour Swan only managed 10 games last year at an average of 76, 10 points down on his debut season. If the role is there, the NEAFL Pig is a proven ballwinner and may be a masterstroke selection.

FIRST-YEAR BARGAIN

Sam Walsh (MID, $270,000) is a bargain despite being the highest-priced first-year player. Oozing with talent and likened to GWS star Josh Kelly, Walsh has a huge tank and will slot straight into the Blues midfield rotation. In 16 games last season, he averaged 29 touches, six tackles and four marks for 111. If you think he is a little expensive, remind yourself that he is priced at the equivalent of a 37 average.

FORGOTTEN WARRIOR

Kade Simpson (DEF, $692,000). I doubt you have forgotten about him but given the word 'warrior' was in the title, Simmo deserves a mention. Many coaches had ruled him out given Docherty was the Blues defender to chase, but once again, they will be relying on the veteran who has missed just one game in three years while averaging 101, 98 and 95.