The summer break is a slow and quiet time regarding the AFL but it does provide one thing: time to put on our thinking caps.
All our attention has been averted to the upcoming 2025 campaign and fans and players are itching for the bounce of the ball for various reasons.
But as in every year, some may be dreading the beginning of the new season moreso than others based on the scrutiny they have faced or could potentially walk into.
The scrutiny could revolve around off-field antics or a disappointing 2024 year.
A dissection with a fine-tooth comb could also be a direct result of moving clubs or better yet, weighing up what club to choose during the AFL season.
Despite if it is unfair or unjust, these are the players that we think will have the magnifying glass put on them (in no particular order)...
Clayton Oliver
The first cab off the rank would have to be the Melbourne midfielder.
Oliver's season from hell began with multiple off-field incidents that followed a trade exploration to Adelaide at the end of 2023 and leading into the new year.
And it didn't get much better for the three-time All-Australian in 2024.
A shortened pre-season due to his behavioural issues meant that Oliver was immediately behind the eight-ball, and it showed.
The 27-year-old hasn't averaged under 25 disposals since his maiden campaign in 2016, where he collected 19.23 disposals per outing.
Last year, he gathered a measly 23.2 touches by his standards.
A secondary trade exploration saw Geelong enter the conversation, with reports revealing Oliver meeting multiple Cats players as the potential of a switch grew legs.
Ultimately, the club vetoed the idea, keeping the 2021 premiership player in the red and blue for another season.
Last year was also the first time the Demons had missed the finals in three seasons.
And so much of what Melbourne has achieved has been off the back of Oliver's work, and if the struggling club is to buck the external speculation of catapulting down the proverbial hill, then the once-a-star midfielder must lift.
