Whether it be a tactical integration taking shape over a number of years, a last-ditch effort to revive a player's career, or a short-term fix that turns into something more, AFL clubs are no strangers to the growing practice of a positional shake-up.
With the likes of Isaac Heeney, Rory Lobb, Nick Blakey, Kyle Langford and Ben Keays all transitioning successfully into new roles over recent years, we thought we'd delve into the biggest positional switches heading into the 2025 season.
1. Ryan Maric
Forward/Wing to Defender
With Tom Barrass departing during the trade period and Jeremy McGovern set to turn 33 in the coming months, the West Coast Eagles are in desperate need of a long-term key defensive option.
Former No.1 Mid-Season Draft pick Ryan Maric appears to be a potential solution to the dilemma, as new coach Andrew McQualter has been trialling him across the backline throughout the pre-season.
The 20-year-old has typically been seen up forward or on the wing throughout the early stages of his career, however does present as a solid key defensive prototype.
At 196cm tall, Maric stands at a proper key defensive height and for someone his size is a good and reliable user of the ball.
With Oscar Allen and Jake Waterman leading the forward line to good effect and Jobe Shanahan and Jack Williams as solid emerging third options, Maric's impact could definitely be felt more strongly elsewhere.
