Round 5 Trade Talk | AFL Fantasy 2026

AFL Fantasy Trade Talk: Key Insights and Strategies

Introduction to the Episode

• The host welcomes viewers back to the AFL Fantasy Fanatic YouTube channel, introducing a trade talk segment focused on the upcoming Gather Round in Adelaide.

• The host invites fans attending the event to meet at the traders live show on Friday afternoon, emphasizing community engagement.

Forced Trades and Current Trends

• Discussion of forced trades due to injuries affecting many players; most coaches are likely managing at least one forced trade this week.

• The episode will cover popular traded-in players, common trades of the week, top five targets, and current trade plans.

Most Traded Players This Week

• Jacob Farrell is highlighted as the most traded-in player with over 14,000 coaches bringing him in due to his impressive performance (101 points last week).

• Farrell's low break-even score (-22) makes him an attractive option for teams looking to field him against favorable matchups.

Evaluating Ruck Options: Gorn vs. Grundy

• Max Gorn is noted as a strong performer averaging 124.5 points across four games; he has faced tough matchups but continues to excel.

• The discussion pivots to whether coaches should choose Gorn or Brady Grundy for their ruck positions this week, considering their respective performances and upcoming fixtures.

Matchup Analysis for Rucks

• Gorn's upcoming matches include Essendon and Brisbane; despite challenging opponents, he is expected to perform well based on past results.

• Grundy's performance is also analyzed alongside potential matchups that may affect his scoring ability compared to Gorn.

This structured summary captures key insights from the transcript while providing timestamps for easy reference.

Ruck Strategy Discussion: Gorn vs. Grundy

Evaluating Matchups and Player Performance

• The speaker identifies three favorable matchups for upcoming games, with one being a neutral matchup and another a challenging one against Grundy. They express concern about the high price of Gorn at 1223, questioning if it's worth the investment.

• A comparison is made between Gorn and Grundy, noting that Gorn currently averages 30 points more than Grundy based on their performances in the first four games.

• Grundy's season performance is analyzed: he scored 106 in his first game (with a strong last quarter), but had disappointing scores of 51 and 88 in subsequent matches before achieving a high score of 137 against West Coast.

• The discussion revolves around whether saving 210k by choosing Grundy over Gorn is worthwhile, emphasizing that this cash could be beneficial for future trades or acquiring other players.

• The potential flexibility gained from saving money is highlighted; it may allow for better options later on, such as acquiring mid-priced players or premium defenders.

Analyzing Future Matchups

• The speaker leans towards selecting Grundy due to the significant cash savings but acknowledges that many might prefer Gorn for potentially higher scores.

• Concerns are raised about Grundy's consistency; while he had good performances, they were often bolstered by strong last quarters rather than consistent play throughout the game.

• Upcoming matchups are discussed: while some opponents present tough challenges (like Wits), others seem manageable. This mixed bag influences decisions regarding player selection.

• The analysis continues with an overview of upcoming fixtures for both players, indicating that while there are tough matchups ahead for both, there’s also potential for better scoring opportunities down the line.

Conclusion on Player Selection

• Emphasis is placed on how crucial this decision is for fantasy teams this week. The speaker reflects on past performances to guide current choices between Gorn and Grundy.

• Ultimately, if cash generation allows it, opting for Max Gorn may save trades in the long run since he’s expected to be among the top two rucks. However, if budget constraints exist, sticking with Grundy could be justified given his lower cost.

• The speaker invites audience engagement by asking viewers to share their thoughts on choosing between Gorn and Grundy in comments below.

Midfield Strategies and Player Insights

Current Player Performances

• Discussion on high-performing players, noting that several "big primos" are achieving impressive scores, particularly in favorable matchups against West Coast and Bulldogs.

• Emphasis on saving cash while considering player trades; Grundy is highlighted as a potential target due to his price drop.

• Suggestion to utilize Oscar Steen if set-and-forget rucks are established, allowing for strategic flexibility in team composition.

Trade Recommendations

• Advocating for trading down from English to Steen while promoting Mckandry to the field for better utility options.

• Jack Steel emerges as a popular trade-in option with consistent scoring over 110; his performance metrics include marks and tackles contributing significantly to his score.

Player Security Concerns

• Acknowledgment of Steel's strong form but caution regarding job security due to potential bench time affecting performance metrics.

• James Leak is noted as a trending trade-in player, though concerns arise about selection squeeze at the Giants with returning players potentially impacting his game time.

Matchup Analysis

• Cosy Picker is recommended based on upcoming matchups against Bombers and Richmond; he has shown versatility in playing both midfield and forward roles effectively.

• Discussion of Picker's recent performances indicates he may face volatility but has the potential for high-scoring games based on current form.

Future Projections

• Consideration of Cosy's scoring range suggests he might average between mid-to-high 90s rather than triple figures this season.

• Marcus Bonipelli's strong start is acknowledged, yet there are reservations about future matchups that could affect his scoring consistency.

Analysis of Player Matchups and Strategies

Key Player Insights

• Connor Ash is expected to match up against Bont, with Jalong likely tagging him as well. This could lead to a challenging week for Ash due to multiple tags.

• Concerns arise about the potential for three players tagging Bont, particularly from Jalong and Sydney. The recommendation is to consider targeting Bont after his round 16 bye when matchups improve.

• Will Ashcroft emerges as a strong option following Foss's injury (fractured jaw). His price point around one million dollars makes him appealing, especially with favorable upcoming matchups.

• Upcoming matches against North Melbourne and Adelaide are highlighted as opportunities for Ashcroft, although there may be some risk of tagging from Thrip in future games.

• Locky Ash is mentioned alongside Whitfield; while both have good form, Whitfield is preferred due to being cheaper and showing great performance recently.

Ruck Position Considerations

• Jackson is noted as a solid player but not recommended over Gorn or Grundy for ruck positions. Jackson's scores are decent but not compelling enough compared to the other two options.

Defensive Options

• Nick Newman’s recent drop in price (6K decrease with a break-even of 98) raises interest. He’s seen as a viable option despite tough matchups ahead, particularly against Collingwood next week.

• Newman's role in kick-ins during games suggests he could be pivotal in scoring more points moving forward. His performance against Adelaide will be crucial for future considerations.

• Kitty Coleman is also mentioned as an option but deemed less stable than Newman. Players on stronger teams like Coleman tend to score better overall, though consistency remains a concern.

Defender Matchups and Trade Strategies

Evaluating Defender Options

• The matchup for defenders looks promising on paper, but North isn't an ideal scenario. A break-even of 22 suggests potential for trading in a defender this week.

• Preference leans towards Newman over Coleman, despite Coleman's lower price and break-even. Both options are viable depending on budget constraints.

• Mitch Edwards is still under 300k and has shown good game time recently, making him a consideration despite missing earlier cash generation opportunities.

Rookie Considerations

• Oscar Stein is preferred over Edwards due to a more secure role in the team. If already invested in Stein, consider benching Edwards or opting for another rookie.

• Sirong has performed well with back-to-back scores above 120 but faces challenges due to Freo's game style and being a primary tag target.

Key Player Insights

• Joshelle remains a strong option at around 800k with consistent scoring averages; however, some may have missed the opportunity to trade him in.

• Tim's injury leads to significant trades out; many are moving away from him due to expected absence of 3 to 6 weeks.

Trade-Out Strategies

High Priority Trades

• Tim's high break-even of 149 makes him less appealing as he returns from injury; trading down to Grundy or up to Gourn is recommended.

• If managing multiple issues within the team, prioritize fixing key players like Parish or Blackston while considering trades that improve overall performance.

Underperforming Players

• Loy Blackston’s poor performance (37 points last week) necessitates his removal from the lineup as he is unlikely to generate further cash.

• Darcy Parish also needs trading out due to consistently low scores; his performance does not justify keeping him on the roster given his inability to score above rookie levels.

Player Trade Insights and Recommendations

Key Player Evaluations

• Farah is expected to perform similarly or better than Ed Richards, making him a viable trade option. Richards is sidelined due to knee soreness, prompting many coaches to consider trading him out.

• Despite a standout performance against Brisbane, Le's inconsistent scoring makes him less favorable for fantasy leagues. He lacks the necessary tackles and marks for consistent high scores.

• Jack Car may be traded if possible; he has limited cash generation potential with a break-even of 30. His position in the team could be affected by returning players from injury.

• K Winds has had back-to-back low scores but isn't an immediate priority for trades. Depending on team circumstances, holding onto him might be beneficial despite his impact player status.

• Dyson Sharp can be considered for trading if there's an opportunity to upgrade to a higher-performing player like Pharaoh. However, Blackston should take precedence in trades.

Rookies and Break-Even Considerations

• Leo Lombard is highly owned but not essential to trade at this moment. With a break-even of 22, he still holds some cash potential and should be monitored over the next few weeks.

• Jack Watkins is among the most traded-out players but may still yield better scores moving forward. Coaches are advised to address other pressing issues before considering his trade.

• Locky Doveston's low scoring and time on ground (TOG) make him less favorable compared to Watkins; trading Doveston could provide more value given his current form.

Strategic Trade Decisions

• Zach's performance has been underwhelming outside of one big score; while trading him could benefit teams in good positions, holding onto him until round seven might also be wise.

• Chris Petra is currently listed as a test player with uncertain availability this week. If he plays next week against a favorable opponent, retaining him could prove advantageous for fantasy teams.

Player Trade Insights and Recommendations

Holding Players and Rookies

• Discussion on holding a player for one more week, with an outside chance of returning sooner. Emphasis on looping between rookies while waiting.

• Mention of Lawler's potential trades, suggesting he may not be a priority but could be traded to players like Murphy or Rashelli based on matchups.

• Michael Cell's performance is analyzed; despite a low score, he has made cash but faces tough upcoming matches. Suggestion to trade him due to potential forced outs.

Key Player Evaluations

• Trish is advised to be traded as his current form does not suit the team dynamics; he's unlikely to be a top ruck option moving forward.

• Darcy Karen is also recommended for trading due to poor performance and sharing time with Steen, leading to significant cash loss.

Sam Walsh's Performance Outlook

• Positive outlook on Sam Walsh compared to Butters; highlights his solid scores against tough opponents despite some unlucky circumstances.

• Analysis of upcoming games suggests Walsh may avoid tagging in future matches, making him a strong hold candidate.

Popular Trades This Week

• Overview of the most popular trades: Tim English to Max Gorn leads with over 9,900 trades. Other notable trades include English to Grundy and Paxton to Farah.

• Recommendations against certain trades like English to Jackson; preference for trading up to Grundy instead.

Top Trade Targets

• Jacob Farah identified as the number one target this week due to his impressive efficiency and low break-even score.

• Grundy and G are closely ranked as second and third targets respectively, indicating their value in the current market.

AFL Fantasy Trade Targets and Strategies

Top Trade Targets for the Week

• Whitfield's Performance: Whitfield scored 1.029 million, showing a strong performance just before the buy round. He is viewed positively as he resembles his previous form, making him a solid option despite not having an outstanding run on paper.

• Nick Newman as a Strong Option: Nick Newman is suggested as the fourth trade target due to his favorable price point of 747K and upcoming matchups, despite one challenging matchup against the Crows.

• Kitty Coleman’s Value: Kitty Coleman is highlighted as a potential fifth target at 669K, noted for being a good price point among cheaper defenders. Will Ashcroft and Jack Steel are also mentioned as midfield options worth considering.

Personal Trade Decisions

• Current Trades Planned: The speaker plans to make straightforward trades involving Blackson across to Pharaoh and English out for either Grundy or Gorn, leaning towards Grundy for cost-saving reasons.

• Community Engagement on Trades: The speaker encourages viewers to share their trade decisions in the comments section, particularly regarding common moves like M Parish or Blacks and Pharaoh trades.

Patreon Offerings

• Patreon Q&A Sessions: Viewers are invited to join Patreon for guaranteed answers to AFL fantasy questions through weekly Q&A sessions. Higher tiers offer team reviews each week.

• Additional Content on Patreon: The speaker mentions other content available on Patreon, including team assessment podcasts released every Tuesday.

Channel Growth and Community Interaction

• Subscriber Milestone Goals: A call-to-action is made for viewers to like the video and subscribe to reach a goal of 5,000 subscribers by season's end.

• Upcoming Content Announcement: The speaker hints at future content such as captain's videos while noting limited availability outside of Patreon interactions until then.