Adelaide is expected to make the rise up the ladder following an underwhelming 2024 outing that resulted in a 15th-place finish.
The Crows were inches away from securing a spot in the finals for the first time since their 2017 grand final blunder in 2023 but fate, as well as an incorrect score review, intervened.
But a new year breathes an air of excitement and endless possibilities, which Matthew Nicks' men should start thinking about.
The inclusion of three mature-aged players and the drafting of Sid Draper and Tyler Welsh should only stimulate the West Lakes club's finals aspirations more so.
But as winger Lachlan Sholl put it, there is no guarantee on who will suit up come Round 1, with competition for spots heating up.
"The mindset is around improving," Sholl said onย RSN.
"All three of (Isaac Cumming, James Peatling and Alex Neal-Bullen) have been incredible since coming in. All high-quality characters and super footballers as well.
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"They all have made an impact so far, and the availability of the group, will make competition for spots even tougher, which is a good problem to have."
The midfield is one area of the ground that will likely see many players rotated through as the season progresses.
Jordan Dawson, Izak Rankine and Jake Soligo are immediate locks for the on-ball brigade, who will be supported by Sholl and Cumming on either wing.
Peatling and veteran Rory Laird will also press their case to start in the Round 1 line-up, potentially leaving a host of young players on the sidelines.
"There's plenty of guys coming through and that are training really well," Sholl continued.
"It will be really tough for spots but that should be a really good sign for the group, and hopefully that promotes improvement and continue to build as a squad."
Sholl put together a career-best campaign in 2024, featuring in 20 games with averages of 21.6 disposals, 5.3 marks and 2.3 tackles.
"I've been able to gain experience (in my six years at the club)," Sholl said.
"I was fortunate last year to gain a string of opportunities, which allowed me to play to my strengths, which are my run and kicking.
"So (a reason for my improvement), during the week, is making sure, on those things as well as deficiencies (I work on those)."
The Crows kick off their 2025 campaign by hosting St Kilda at Adelaide Oval on Sunday, March 16.
