Connor Ballenden

Drafted from the Lions Academy, Ballenden has had a strong first pre-season. Still 18, he stands 200cm and weighs 95kg and is a long-term forward/ruck option. Will spend most of 2018 in the NEAFL.

Jake Barrett

Had a good first season at the club, playing 17 games, earning a spot with his hard work and pressure (he averaged five tackles a game). The arrival of Charlie Cameron and Cam Rayner make winning a spot that much more difficult.

Charlie Cameron

Lightning quick recruit from Adelaide who adds serious pace to the forward mix. Has played 73 games and kicked five goals in last year's preliminary final win over Geelong. Could also spend time on a wing.

Allen Christensen

A new recruit of sorts after missing almost two years with back-to-back collarbone fractures. Christensen has not missed a beat in the pre-season, played two strong JLT matches and will mix time between half-forward and the midfield with his excellent foot skills.

Tom Cutler

Has moved from half-back to the wing and now to half-forward. Cutler is significantly fitter than he's ever been and has pace and a long right-foot kick. Tough to win a regular spot, but he's good enough.

Eric Hipwood

One of the most talented key forwards in the competition, the wiry Hipwood kicked 30 goals last season. Loves to jump for his marks but is even more adept once the ball hits the ground. The languid left-footer will be the prime target inside 50.

Ben Keays

Much like Barrett, is fighting for a small forward position based on his willingness to chase and defend. Super fit and likely to move into the midfield in time, Keays needs to improve his clean hands and dispose to be a best 22 regular.

Cam Rayner

The No.1 pick has had a dream first pre-season. Powerfully built, Rayner can kick off both sides, loves the contested ball and is a fierce tackler. He'll play at half-forward with small minutes on-ball.

Could Cam Rayner be set to debut for Round 1 this weekend?

Mitch Robinson

Back after missing the final four months of last season with a broken foot. At 28, Robinson is now a veteran, but brings more enthusiasm than anyone and can spend time either mid or forward.

Lewy Taylor

The 2014 Rising Star winner is fresh of his best season yet and looks like going from strength to strength. Has learned to take the simple option and his speed, agility and goalsense provide headaches for opposition small defenders.

Josh Walker

Possibly saved his career with an outstanding second half of 2017. Showed he can play as a key defender, but his strong contested marking is likely to be a perfect complement for Hipwood. Can also pinch-hit in the ruck.

Toby Wooller

The grandson of former Geelong premiership captain Fred, Wooller was drafted as a clever, marking forward. Will likely spend most of the season playing NEAFL to help develop his game.