The Western Bulldogs might have a top four list on paper, but that can only get a club so far - as has been the case for the Footscray-based side over the past several seasons.
Coach Luke Beveridge has a devastatingly destructive midfield at his disposal as the Dogs continue to uncover the next wave of onballers to support a top line of stars in the engine room.
The upside of the club's forward line is equally scintillating as their trio of tall forwards look to combine and drive the Dogs deeper into September this year.
Questions surround the backline, which will soon need to look to the future while planning to remain in premiership contention.
Looking at the Bulldogs' squad and breaking down their defence, midfield and forward groups, we've named a best 23 for the season ahead.
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.
4. Best 23
FB: Bailey Dale, Liam Jones, Rory Lobb
HB: Lachie Bramble, James O'Donnell, Taylor Duryea
C: Bailey Williams, Tom Liberatore, Ed Richards
HF: Caleb Poulter, Jamarra Ugle-Hagan, Rhylee West
FF: Cody Weightman, Aaron Naughton, Sam Darcy
FO: Tim English, Marcus Bontempelli, Adam Treloar
I/C: Ryley Sanders, Joel Freijah, Matthew Kennedy, Riley Garcia
SUB: Laitham Vandermeer
Others to consider: Jedd Busslinger, Cooper Hynes, Ryan Gardner, Harvey Gallagher, Buku Khamis, Jason Johannisen, Nick Coffield, James Harmes, Arthur Jones
