If Essendon is to take the next step in season 2022, much will depend on the form of Aaron Francis.
That is the opinion of Julian De Stoop, who would love to see the 24-year-old finally fulfil the enormous potential he has shown since debuting in 2016.
Francis has struggled to establish himself over his six years at the top level, only twice reaching double figures for matches played in a season.
He has battled injuries and mental health issues over the course of his 50 AFL games, but there is little doubt regarding his natural ability as either an intercept defender or a lead-up forward.
De Stoop feels the Bombers would benefit greatly if Francis can find his way next year, much like midfielder Darcy Parish did in his breakout 2021 season.
“As an Essendon supporter it’s Aaron Francis,” De Stoop said on SEN Mornings when discussing potential breakout players for next year.
“He’s got it all in terms of talent. He can play back, he can play forward, he’s got a good set of hands, he’s a nice kick, he’s got a good leap.
“But he’s had all sorts of dramas with his body, he’s had some mental health issues that have also stalled his career.
“For me, that’s the sort of player Essendon need to really take a significant jump in 2022.
“He needs to jump up and become a better player than he is.
“If he can do what Darcy Parish did last season, that would be fantastic for the Bombers.”
It’s no surprise that Francis has been earmarked as a player ready to break it open in 2022.
He has shown glimpses of brilliance at times, but has been unable to bring it all together.
With Jordan Ridley, Jayden Laverde and James Stewart holding down important defensive roles, along with the recruitment of Jake Kelly from Adelaide and the expected emergence of top-10 draftee Zach Reid, is there even a spot for Francis in Ben Rutten’s backline?
Or does the future possibly hold a job as a forward given their need for some extra depth in attack?
Regardless of which position Francis fills, 2022 shapes as a massive year for the South Australian former no.6 draft pick who comes out of contract at the end of the season.
He desperately needs to make an impact in his seventh season in the red and black.