Injuries have plagued the Western Australian since he joined the GIANTS in their debut season in 2012 after four years at Fremantle.
But since returning from a serious hamstring injury in Round 7, he's now playing some of the best footy of his career.
“I’m just happy to be playing footy at the moment,” Palmer said. “I obviously had the injury at the start of the year, so it’s just good to be back and stringing games along.”
Playing mostly as a defensive forward, Palmer has excelled in the role, kicking three goals while blanketing Andrew Walker a fortnight ago and then restricting Swans co-captain Kieren Jack to just 10 touches when moved to him after half time in last Saturday's Derby.
Palmer attributed his on-field form to his off-field preparation.
“It’s a long season so you’re going to have your good games and your bad ones but it’s just about consistency and about working hard week-in week-out on the track,” he said.
“I think that sets you up for a really good game. I’ve been doing my best at training and doing all the sessions so it’s holding me in good stead for the upcoming games and the whole season.”
As one of the older players on the GIANTS list at just 25-years-old, Palmer has relished the opportunity to develop his leadership skills.
“Every one of the 22 players that walk out on the field are leaders in some form or shape,” Palmer said.
“Whether it’s your first game or your 150th game, you’ve got to be a leader, instructing out on the ground and just using your voice.
“Obviously we have a lot of first and second year players coming in so just telling them where to stand and stuff and giving them confidence as well.”
Next up is the Crows in front of his home crowd at Spotless Stadium where the GIANTS have won three of their five games this season.
“We’ve played very well here the last couple of times and we’ve had another great week on the track so we’re just looking forward to continuing with our good form,” he said.
“I’m looking forward to another role, whether it be forward or in the midfield I’m not sure yet.”
The GIANTS take on the Crows at 2.10pm on Saturday afternoon at Spotless Stadium in Sydney Olympic Park. It’s a Family Fun Day with family tickets starting from just $30 and kick-to-kick and a signing session on the ground after the game.
