Why Jenkins expects rival clubs to come for “the most unlucky player in the AFL” this off-season

Josh Jenkins has described Essendon ruckman Nick Bryan as the unluckiest player in the AFL.

Bryan, 22, has played just one game in 2024 and 15 overall since being drafted with pick No. 38 in the 2019 Draft, and Jenkins doesn’t think that’s enough for a player who performs so well in the VFL.

Until the VFL's Round 19 in 2024, Bryan averaged 17.8 disposals, 3.1 marks, 3.0 tackles and 40.2 hitouts but has been overlooked all season with both Sam Draper and Todd Goldstein preferred.

While Bryan has been named to play in Sunday’s clash against Fremantle at the MCG, Jenkins expects clubs to come for him this off-season with the promise of increased opportunity.

“Nick Bryan can consider himself the most unlucky player in the AFL,” Jenkins said on SEN’s The Run Home.

“He dominates in the VFL. Everyone knows that, everyone can see that for themselves.

“He’s been overlooked for Todd Goldstein pretty much all season, and Draper, if you want to put them all in the same category.

“I was surprised when Bryan re-signed. I thought there’d be clubs coming after him. Contracts mean a lot less than they used to and I’d imagine clubs will be coming for him again.

“He’s an AFL ruckman from what I’ve seen.”

Bryan gets his chance to improve at 3:20 pm (AEST) on Sunday when the Dons and Dockers meet at the MCG.