Richmond great Matthew Richardson has listed his top six locks, the four clubs in the finals mix and the bottom six who are unlikely to play finals in 2021.
Richardson has reigning premiers Richmond, Geelong, West Coast, Port Adelaide, St Kilda and Brisbane finishing in the top six.
“They are almost certainties to play finals,” he told Sportsday.
The three-time All-Australian says the Western Bulldogs, Melbourne, Collingwood and GWS will be in the mix to play finals.
Richardson also expects Carlton and Fremantle to improve this season.
“If Zac Williams comes in and plays well and (Adam) Saad in the back half, Carlton can really improve,” he said.
“As can Fremantle. I think they’re on the right track with their game style.”
The champion Tiger doesn’t expect Adelaide, Hawthorn, Sydney, Gold Coast, North Melbourne and Essendon to challenge for a top eight spot.
The Crows, Hawks, Swans, Suns, Kangaroos and Bombers all finished in the bottom six last season.
Top six locks: Richmond, Geelong, West Coast, Port Adelaide, St Kilda, Brisbane.
Four teams in the mix below them: Western Bulldogs, Melbourne, Collingwood, GWS Giants.
Teams that will improve: Carlton, Fremantle.
Bottom six group who are unlikely to play finals: Adelaide, Hawthorn, Sydney, Gold Coast, North Melbourne and Essendon.