Co-captain Jarrad McVeigh expects his teammates’ versatility will be showcased this season, as a counter product of a reduction in interchange rotations.
The AFL is reducing the interchange cap from 120 per match to 90 per match and abolishing the substitute rule.
One player that has showcased his ability to play a multitude of positions is star forward Lance Franklin, who looked at home in the midfield during last Friday’s intra-club clash.
Franklin has had a solid pre-season and could see some midfield minutes in 2016.
“The way the game is heading I think you have to have more guys running through there, so we will see expect to see a lot of different guys through the midfield this year,” McVeigh told Big Sports Breakfast on Wednesday morning.
“Players will probably have to spend more time on the field, so you will see a lot of midfielders resting forward and guys up forward coming into the midfield.
“It will be a bit of a suck and see for the first few rounds to see how it all goes.”
The 30-year-old, who is continuing his recovery from an ongoing knee injury, is also expected to showcase his versatility on the field this season with an increased role across half back.
McVeigh has been touted by senior coach John Longmire as one potential option to cover the loss of premiership defender Rhyce Shaw in defence.
Another to put his name up for the role across half back is first year Swan Tyrone Leonardis, who impressed his skipper during Friday’s intra-club match.
“We drafted really well this year and in particular guys with really good skill,” McVeigh said.
“At the intra-club last week Tyrone really impressed with his run and Jordan Dawson has a really good left foot as well, so they are two that have been standouts this pre-season.”
