Emerging Melbourne tall Luke Jackson has the potential to be the best player in the AFL in a few years’ time, according to Brownlow Medallist Gerard Healy.
The 20-year-old won the Rising Star award and capped off a breakout year by playing a key role in the Demons’ Grand Final win over the Western Bulldogs.
Capable of playing in the ruck and as a key forward, Jackson will only get better working in tandem with star teammate and premiership captain Max Gawn.
“He (Jackson) could be the best player in the comp in a few years’ time if he continues that sort of form,” Healy told Sportsday.
“It was frightening (his Grand Final). He looks a hell of a player and he’s only in his third year.
“It’s exciting times.”
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After breaking a 57-year premiership drought this year, where can the Demons improve to go back-to-back in 2022?
Healy identified two players who could boost Melbourne next year.
“They don’t need to improve anywhere, really. They just need to play at their best,” the ex-Demons said.
“But I think they can improve by the likes of Luke Dunstan getting better, (Sam) Weideman can get a lot better.
“I’ve been told he loves Melbourne and he’d rather have a crack at getting better, fighting for his spot and grabbing that spot.
“It’s a brave call and it’s one that will hopefully deliver him a premiership.”
Dunstan joined from St Kilda as a delisted free agent, while Weideman signed a two-year extension after being linked with a move away from the club.
The 24-year-old forward played just five senior games this year.