The AFL's ruck market is a fascinating arena, and with the trade period looming, it's time to dive into the five names that are at the centre of the discussion. While the big names coming off contract in 2027 are often the focus, the ruck landscape is no less intriguing, with a mix of established stars and emerging talents. Let's explore the players who are generating the most intrigue and the factors that are shaping their futures.
The Five Names to Watch
Tim English
As an All-Australian ruckman contracted until the end of 2029, Tim English is a central figure in trade speculation. The conversation around his future was ignited when Jordan Lewis suggested he could be 'gettable', prompting a strong response from coach Luke Beveridge. However, English's limited playing time and knee/concussion issues have raised questions about his long-term prospects. The Bulldogs' shift in ruck strategy and the emergence of Rory Lobb as a primary ruckman further complicate English's position. The question remains: will he remain at Whitten Oval in 2027?
Rowan Marshall
Rowan Marshall, a premier ruckman, is contracted beyond this season, but his future is uncertain. The Saints' ruck dynamic has changed significantly with the arrival of Tom De Koning, and Marshall's interest in exploring his options last off-season centred on greater opportunity. The rapid development of Mitch Edwards may reduce the need for another established ruck, but Marshall's experience and impact on the game make him a logical replacement for Tim English if the Bulldogs were to lose him. The question is: will the Saints be open to a trade offer?
Bailey Williams
Bailey Williams, a restricted free agent, is one of the more fascinating names yet to recommit for 2027. The 26-year-old has enhanced his value significantly due to the AFL's centre-bounce rule changes, establishing himself as West Coast's first-choice big man. The absence of a completed contract has fuelled speculation about his future, with Victorian clubs and Richmond expressing interest. The longer his contract remains unresolved, the more inevitable external speculation around West Coast's ruck plans becomes. The question is: will he stay loyal to the Eagles?
Kieran Briggs
Kieran Briggs, an unrestricted free agent, finds himself facing an uncertain future. The Giants' decision to extend Nick Madden has added to the intrigue, with Richmond potentially redirecting their attention towards Briggs if he becomes available. Despite playing 83 AFL games, Briggs has slipped down GWS' list of priorities amid negotiations with several key players. As an unrestricted free agent, he would almost certainly attract interest if he reached the open market. The question is: will he command the same attention as Tim English or Rowan Marshall?
Reilly O'Brien
Perhaps no established ruckman has been impacted more by the AFL's new centre-bounce rules than Reilly O'Brien. Despite signing a three-year contract extension in July last year, he has managed just one AFL appearance in 2026, with Lachie McAndrew establishing himself as Adelaide's preferred number one ruck. The emergence of Toby Murray as a forward-ruck option has left O'Brien effectively third in line, making senior opportunities increasingly difficult to come by. The question is: will rival clubs explore the possibility of prising him away from the Crows?
The Broader Implications
The ruck market is a fascinating arena, and the trade period is a critical time for clubs to assess their needs and make strategic moves. The AFL's centre-bounce rule changes have significantly reshaped the ruck landscape, and the emergence of new talents and the impact of established stars are key factors in shaping the market. The longer-term implications of these changes are yet to be fully understood, but one thing is certain: the ruck market will be a key area to watch as the home-and-away season comes to a close.
