The Tigers are uniquely positioned after a mass exodus of premiership stars in the free agency and trade period last year, followed by a strategic plan to land as much first-round draft talent as possible, making seven selections in the first 28 picks.
These selections include Pick 1 Sam Lalor and Pick 8 Josh Smillie, who was tipped to be selected first overall in the early stages of last year.
Richmond are short-priced favourites to claim the wooden spoon in 2025, with a year of blooding their youth expected. It leaves a curious dilemma for Adam Yze to tackle, as Richmond will be aiming to find a balance between utilising veteran leadership and providing invaluable matches early in the careers of their promising youngsters to ensure they are at least somewhat competitive.
Across all three lines of the field, we've assessed Richmond's best options for 2025, creating a 23-man side that best balances experience and youth.
Our Best 23 for 2025 series will include players unavailable for the start of the season, except for those expected to miss most or all of the season through injury or suspension.
2. Midfielders
Following the draft, Richmond has an abundance of youthful talent knocking on the door of a spot in the midfield. However, Tim Taranto and Jacob Hopper are likely to hold their spots come Round 1.
Dion Prestia is another veteran set to resume his role in the midfield, with the youth taking spots on the wings. Hugo Ralphsmith, Seth Campbell, and Jack Ross should be the leading challengers for the outside running position, as Kamdyn McIntosh reaches the twilight stages of his career.
Kane McCaullife is another youngster set to make his case for a midfield spot, as will draftees Lalor and Smillie. Taj Hotton will bide his time recovering from an ACL injury for the majority of the season before earning a spot in the team.
Toby Nankervis is set to own the ruck role again, with Samson Ryan the likely second option.
