6. Strengths and Weaknesses

The Bombers obvious strength is their midfield group as they bat quite deep in the engine room with likes of Dylan Shiel, Zach Merrett and Andrew McGrath running through the guts. Supported by Dyson Heppell, Devon Smith, Darcy Parish, Kyle Langford and some cameos from the forward group they have the ability to win the ball.

AFL Rd 9 - Essendon v Brisbane
GOLD COAST, AUSTRALIA - JULY 31: Andrew McGrath of the Bombers handballs during the round nine AFL match between the Essendon Bombers and the Brisbane Lions at Metricon Stadium on July 31, 2020 in Gold Coast, Australia. (Photo by Chris Hyde/AFL Photos/via Getty Images)

Their weakness stands in the key positions as they don't have a clear path to goal nor a key target to use when they are in trouble. Their defence is coming along but is clearly a point of worry with Hooker and Hurley not getting any younger.

Sam Draper is a promising type in the ruck but is still developing and exactly what level he will reach remains quite unknown.