Carlton's pre-season plans for 2023 took another hit last week with defender Zac Williams seeing his campaign cut short due to an ACL injury.
The ailment adds to a frustrating tenure in the navy blue for the former Giant, who has managed just 25 games across two seasons at Ikon Park due to prior injuries.
The setback will allow the Blues to move Williams to their inactive list and scout a potential replacement before the Supplemental Selection Period deadline on Wednesday, February 15.
Senior coach Michael Voss may look to add a like-for-like replacement for the 28-year-old before the signing window shuts, either adding experienced talent that can have an instant impact or potentially looking toward a more youthful target that will act as a reinforcement for any further injuries to his back third stocks.
Here we name five players that Carlton could consider recruiting in place of Williams for the 2023 season.
2. Jed Hagan
Another WA talent whose name wasn't called during last year's draft, Hagan was likened to Richmond tough nut Liam Baker off the back of his impressive draft campaign with East Fremantle at senior level.
The small-framed utility already has senior football experience under his belt after playing eight games for the Sharks in the WAFL last year, averaging 13.3 disposals, 4 marks, 4 tackles and 1 goal per game.
Hagan can slot into a flank at either end of the field or on the wing, potentially offering Carlton some flexibility across all three lines should they look his way.
The teenager has ventured interstate since the new year, signing with Port Adelaide's SANFL squad for the 2023 season.
Reports have suggested both the Power and Fremantle had shown interest in Hagan ahead of last year's draft period.
