Rory Lobb's tenure at the Western Bulldogs is on shaky ground, and the question must be asked about whether it's worth another club offering him an AFL lifeline.

Despite standing 207cm with some of the longest levers and strongest hands in the comp, Lobb has struggled to capitalise on his key-forward attributes across three clubs โ€” the GWS Giants, Fremantle Dockers, and now the Bulldogs.

His inconsistency and, at times uncompetitiveness, has led to growing speculation about his future in the league.

Last night's 43-point defeat to the Brisbane Lions saw Lobb leave the field with an ankle injury, only to be jeered by his own supporters as he hobbled off. The incident underscores the discontent among Bulldogs fans, reflecting a broader sentiment about Lobb's impact on the team.

Lobb, who managed only five disposals before being subbed out, has had a difficult season. Since returning to the senior lineup, he has accumulated a modest 17 touches, three marks, and one goal across two games.

Despite the support of Western Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge, who affirmed that Lobb would retain his spot against Fremantle if fit, questions linger about his future with the club and the AFL.

Reports from last month indicated that Lobb might seek a trade to a fourth AFL club next season, despite having two years left on his contract with the Bulldogs. The drama that followed was bolstered by his underwhelming performance and the Bronx cheers he received from fans during recent matches.

Coach Beveridge, while acknowledging Lobb's struggles, emphasised the need for Lobb in the team's current structure, particularly as a second ruck.

PERTH, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 21: Rory Lobb of the Bulldogs celebrates after scoring a goal during the 2023 AFL Round 06 match between the Fremantle Dockers and the Western Bulldogs at Optus Stadium on April 21, 2023 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Will Russell/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

"We're going to need a bona fide second ruck and Rory is that man who will play that role, so absolutely (we will persist with him)," Beveridge stated after the game.

AFL commentator Gerard Whateley criticised Lobb's management for complaining about his role at the Bulldogs, pointing out that Lobb has not performed well enough to secure a consistent spot in the team.

"Rory, fight for your job, mate. Compete!" Whateley urged, highlighting his own responsibility in the current predicament.

Potential suitors for Lobb, including Melbourne, North Melbourne, St Kilda, and Collingwood, should consider his trend of performances carefully.

Despite his experience and physical advantages, Lobb's output โ€” averaging one goal per game and limited impact in recent matches โ€” suggests that any club interested in him should manage their expectations and financial commitment wisely.

As Lobb potentially prepares for a new chapter in his AFL career, the key question remains: Can he find a club willing to take a chance on his untapped potential, or will his inconsistency continue to overshadow his physical gifts?

The coming months will likely reveal whether another team is ready to offer Rory Lobb a lifeline in the competitive world of AFL.