After making the Grand Final last year, the Western Bulldogs fell short of expectations in AFL season 2022. The Dogs snuck into the finals in eighth place, but would eventually fall short to Fremantle in a blistering elimination final comeback.
But even in a down year, the Bulldogs hold a healthy list with some high-end talent coming through their ranks.
The arrival of some fresh faces at Whitten Oval could shoot the Western Bulldogs straight back into premiership contention, though the imminent departure of midfielder Josh Dunkley sets them back.
Lachie Hunter is another who could leave the club after the winger had a rocky 10-game season and took time away from the AFL for personal issues.
Despite two midfielders potentially on the move, the Bulldogs are still in need of key position stocks. The club will be looking to add another key defender to their list after inconsistent years from Alex Keath and Zaine Cordy.
Defender Liam Jones seems likely to rejoin his old club, but may not be the elite stopper the Dogs need after time away from the AFL.
The Bulldogs have Picks 11 29, 37 and 65 available should they need them in a trade.
2. Rory Lobb
Rory Lobb looms as the most likely acquisition for the Bulldogs this off-season.
The tall-forward requested a trade to Whitten Oval in his exit meeting with Fremantle, but has since been informed that Dockers "wouldn't facilitate a trade" with a year left on his contract.
Even so, Lobb remains firm on his desire to move and the Bulldogs could use him. Josh Bruce played only five games this year after returning from an ACL injury and struggled in form.
In comparison, Lobb kicked 36 goals for the year and averaged 4.4 marks per game. He was the spearhead of Fremantle's attack, and could excel in filling the hole left by Bruce this season.
Fremantle are reluctant to give up the forward target, so the Dogs' Pick 29 and deal-sweeteners could be on the table in a trade.
