update:Brisbane Lions players under pressure……

The Brisbane Lions will face some interesting selection dilemmas in 2025 as they look to defend their AFL premiership. Here are a few players who could find themselves under pressure due to position squeezes and the competition for spots in the team

• Challenge: With younger players like Will Ashcroft, who impressed in his debut season, and the presence of a seasoned group such as Jarryd Lyons and Dayne Zorko, there will be an increasing number of midfield options for coach Chris Fagan. Neale’s role may be more tailored as the team attempts to manage player workloads, especially with the added fixture pressure
• Pressure: Daniher has been a key part of the Lions’ forward line, but with the depth the team has in attack, he could come under pressure. Young talents like Jack Payne, and the depth in forwards like Eric Hipwood, may challenge Daniher’s consistency and role in the team.
• Challenge: His ability to stay fit and contribute consistently is critical. If he doesn’t maintain form, the Lions could consider other options, particularly with younger forwards potentially pushing for a spot.
• Pressure: While Charlie Cameron remains one of the best small forwards in the competition, the rise of other forward line options could put pressure on his spot. Players like the emerging players in the forward half and the club’s mix of key forwards could see more rotations in attack.
• Challenge: Cameron’s pressure comes from the team’s depth, with emerging small forwards and key forwards possibly being rotated into positions. If Cameron has a slower start to the season, the Lions might look to tweak the forward structure.
• Pressure: Rich has been one of Brisbane’s most important defenders, but with his age and the rise of younger defenders like Keidean Coleman and others, he might find his position under threat. Rich’s impact as a long kicker is vital, but the emergence of younger legs could result in changes.
• Challenge: The competition for spots in Brisbane’s defensive unit is fierce. Rich may have to work hard to maintain his place, particularly with younger players pushing for their opportunity.
• Pressure: Bailey is versatile and can play both in the midfield and forward line, but with so many options in the midfield and the forward line, his spot could be under threat if his form dips. The balance between midfielders and forwards might affect where Bailey is best utilized.
• Challenge: Bailey will need to prove that he can consistently contribute in a competitive midfield and forward mix. His versatility is an advantage, but the competition for spots is fierce.
• Pressure: Robertson is a hard-working midfielder, but he faces stiff competition from the Lions’ established midfielders and younger talents. Players like Ashcroft, Lyons, and Zorko will make it difficult for Robertson to cement a regular spot.
• Challenge: He will need to show consistent improvement and prove his ability to step up when given the opportunity. If the Lions’ midfield depth increases, Robertson’s spot could be on the line.
• Pressure: Although McCluggage is a key figure in the Lions’ midfield, the competition for midfield spots will increase as younger players like Ashcroft grow. McCluggage needs to maintain elite form to ensure he retains his position in the core midfield group.
• Challenge: The pressure for a regular spot in the Lions’ midfield will be there, and McCluggage must continue to deliver high-quality performances to hold off the challenge from younger, energetic players.

The Brisbane Lions are stacked with talent across the park, which will lead to increased competition for spots in 2025. The pressure on these players is primarily driven by the development of younger players, potential new recruits, and the club’s increasing depth across all areas. How coach Chris Fagan manages this pressure and rotation will be a key factor in the Lions’ ability to defend their premiership in 2025.

Brisbane will face this unique situation in 2025, but also have a swag of players coming back from injury to put pressure on some premiership players.

The Sporting News examines some of the scenarios facing the Lions and Chris Fagan as they attempt to go back-to-back.