Five trade targets for every AFL club: Richmond Tigers

A Swans forward, Dockers midfielder, Demons free agent and more make up our trade targets for Richmond.

STAFF WRITER | August 15, 2023 - 3:13pm

20829

Richmond is undoubtedly one of the greatest clubs of the modern era. Winning three flags in four years is an achievement only accomplished by two other sides - Brisbane in 2001, 2002, and 2003 and Hawthorn in 2013, 2014 and 2015. Coached by Damien Hardwick, the dynasty team that won flags in 2017, 2019 and 2020 was one of the best fans have ever seen.

Unfortunately for Richmond, that is not the same team that is playing in 2023. Whilst not having a dramatic drop off in one year, the club has slowly slid back down the ladder as the list gets older. With the retirements of ex-skipper and club legend Trent Cotchin, veteran defender Robbie Tarrant and veteran forward Jack Riewoldt, the club is slowly transitioning away from the side that was once so great.

Additionally, the sudden departure of premiership coach Hardwick midway through the year shook things up. The job for the coaching role at Richmond is still up in the air whilst Hardwick is reportedly making the move to Gold Coast.

It's not the clubs' fault at all by any means. Players age, coaches change, and footy continues to move on. There comes a time for every club where change occurs and it looks as though Richmond is entering that period now. Winning three flags so recently and in such quick succession is something for fans to be forever grateful for. If there's one thing Tigers fans have proved time and time again, it's that they're patient.

As the list begins to show its age and youth is injected into the side, here are five players that we think the Tigers should target in the trade period.

Back Next

3. Jeremy Sharp

Gold Coast utility Jeremy Sharp has been unlucky in 2023. The 22-year-old hasn't managed a single senior game this year despite being a contributor in 2022, playing 12 games. Sharp hasn't been given an opportunity for consistent AFL footy even since ex-coach Stuart Dew's departure earlier this year.

Heading towards the trade period, Sharp could be looking elsewhere for a move and the Tigers could be possible suitors. Standing at 189cm tall, the midfielder would inject some youth into the side following the departure of Trent Cotchin. At VFL level, Sharp averages a respectable 22 disposals and just shy of a goal a game.

Although not much has been seen of the youngster having only played a total of 23 senior games across four years, there's plenty of upside in the midfielder and Richmond could be a place to showcase his talent. The Tigers have a knack for taking Gold Coast players and turning them into stars, most notably Dion Prestia and Tom Lynch.