AF 2016 Profile: Craig Bird

[Mr.Craig]

Craig Bird



21/1/89 179cm/83kg Forward/Midfielder

Price - $321,000

Career Games - 137

2015 Averages - 8.3 kicks, 8.2 handballs, 2.8 marks, 3.5 tackles

2011 AF Ave: 67.6
2012 AF Ave: 68.8
2013 AF Ave: 71.4
2014 AF Ave: 83.3
2015 AF Ave: 65.8

2015 Scores - 80, 78, 95, 70, 52, 20

Red Vest


Profile

Bird has flown the coop and landed at Essendon which presents an opportunity for him to cement a role in the starting 22 and lift his fantasy average. In his time at Sydney he showed the ability to consistently gather 20+ disposals a game and occasionally top 100 points. Vests, injuries and run-with roles held back his scoring at times but during 2014 Craig exhibited his full fantasy potential - between rounds 6 and 20 he averaged an impressive 92.6. Whether he will find the going as easy at a bottom 4 club is open for debate but the indications seem to be there that he can push his average into the low 80's. This would result in a reasonable price rise of 120-140k and an easy upgrade to a premium.

Pros - Underpriced, consistent ball winner, js likely strong

Cons - Questions over role


Prediction - 78-82

Inside Football Player Rating - www.aflplayerratings.com.au/Ratings/Player/111683/Craig-BIRD


Mr.Craig's Call

[Money]

Not sure I'll use the lock word but he'll definitely be in my team most of the preseason !

[Football Factory]

Was going to do a profile on him last night (Dream Team section), good choice  :)

DPP - M/F  :)

Locked for me in my forward line unless he's not named round 1.

[T Dog]

Will keep him listed. Nice handy price