Kane Cornes believes Melbourne ruckman Luke Jackson’s “reputation is higher than his performance” as the fallout from their straight sets finals exit continues.
Brisbane pulled off the big upset on Friday night, ousting last year’s premiers and winning their first game at the MCG since 2014.
Cornes singled out Jackson for particular criticism, following his six-disposal game in the Semi Final.
“Luke Jackson plays one good game in every 12,” he said on SEN’s Crunch Time.
“His reputation is higher than his performance and it seems harsh but that’s what happens when massive rival deals come and you decide to put off contract talks
“He would be a bit embarrassed about by some of his physical efforts on Friday night, he was in a good enough position to mark the footy a couple of times and he wasn’t physical enough.”
Jackson is widely tipped to return home to Western Australia and join Fremantle in a long-term deal, having put off contract talks all season.
Cornes said if the Demons can bring in Brodie Grundy, their ruck line up for 2023 could actually be stronger than this season.
“I think it’ll be a blessing if Luke Jackson goes, because they’ll instantly be better if they get Brodie Grundy and they’ll get two first round picks from Fremantle for Jackson,” he said.
“They’ll be able to inject some young talent into the squad and they get a better ruckman with Grundy and Gawn.