Could Eagles look to trade key forward?

Much-maligned tall forward Jack Darling is the front runner for a potential offload by the West Coast Eagles, says West Coast great Glenn Jakovich.

Dual premiership hero Jakovich believes Darling must be a trade option while he still possesses currency.

West Coast hasn't started the season 1-6 since 2008, and are currently 18th for the first time in their history.

Jakovich believes a list overhaul must be made to fast-track the development of the Eagles' young brigade, as their ageing list has finally caught up to them.

“I think they’ll be active in the trade period,” said Jakovich on 3AW's Sportsday.

“I think you’ve seriously got to look at (trading) Jack Darling come season's end when he’s still got some currency.

“Make a few retirements and start blooding a few more kids, giving them an opportunity.”

Darling, who spent most of the pre-season on the sidelines due to his vaccine hesitancy, has played in all of the Eagles' first six matches, kicking only six majors, averaging 1.3 marks inside 50, 11.2 disposals and 2.7 clangers a game. 

Darling is contracted to the Eagles till 2025, has kicked 272 goals at 1.98 per game since 2016, and must recapture some of his old form if he wishes to see out his contract with the Eagles.