The Running Machine
Coach Leon Cameron has a 196cm running machine to be the GIANTS' ace up forward in 2015.
It was just 12 months ago punters were salivating at the prospect of No.1 picks Boyd and Patton teaming with 2013 All Australian Jeremy Cameron to form a three-pronged forward line to terrorise the AFL for the next decade.
But with Boyd going to the Western Bulldogs, Patton unavailable until mid-season after a second knee reconstruction, and Cameron battling inconsistent form last year, that dream seemed a distant memory.
However, Cameron doesn't see it that way, believing the GIANTS have a diamond in the rough in 21-year-old Adam Tomlinson to fill the void.
His numbers through three seasons are unflattering, but Tomlinson has the goods to be a regular part of the revamped GIANTS forward line, says Cameron.
In 45 games the former Oakleigh Charger has kicked 15 goals, eight of which came in 19 games last season.
"I think people forget about Adam Tomlinson. He's a pick 10, played 45 games already, he's 196cm running machine centre half-forward.
"He's probably tended to be left out in a lot of people's minds, but not ours.
"We feel as though he's developing into a fine young player for us."
Tomlinson hasn't played much as a key forward so far. In fact, it's his versatility that has been the biggest asset of his young career, being able to play key forward, key back, on the wing, and even in the midfield at a pinch.
"He's got one of the biggest motors for a 196cm player I've seen," Cameron said.
"I think he'll be a great part of our forward line going forward.
"Spots are competitive and spots are up for grabs."
Alongside Cameron – and Patton when he returns – the GIANTS coach believes youngsters James Stewart and Cam McCarthy can also challenge for spots.
The GIANTS also have a midfield capable of kicking goals, with Devon Smith (26), Adam Treloar (13), Josh Kelly (13) and big name recruit Ryan Griffen (10) all double figure goalkickers in 2014.
But at the key posts, Cameron has the utmost confidence he has the cattle to kick winning scores.
"We feel as though we're in a good position with our key forwards," he said.
"I would see us definitely going in with two key forwards, or possibly three.
"I don't see it as an issue at all."