Paddy Ryder

[ALI-G]

Coming into his second AFL season for the Bombers Ryder had managed only a handful of games as an unimpressive ruckman, yet has managed all 9 games this year and has been extremely solid as a key defender. Has really impressed me his year after I wrote him off early last year and he would have to be among our top 10 in the best and fairest, a potential longshot for an AA position on a back flank and amongst the top 3 favourites for the NAB rising star award. Expect big things from this young gun sooner ratehr than later.

[dogsact]

I tend to agree. It was way too soon to be throughing an 18yo kid in the ruck against matured, older men. With the guidance of Fletcher, Micheal and McPhee he has blossomed into a quality backman. The times this year he has rucked he showed improvement. Long term he is going to be a better ruck prospect than Lay**** is looking. I think this young man will be a star.

[dogsact]

lol, can you believed they starred out Layc o c k. Idiots!

[dogsact]

Looking to be a contender for the NAB rising star at the moment. Theres a few "experts" giving him the nod based on the first half of the season.

[ALI-G]

Rising star looks to be a 3 horse race with Ryder, Pendlebury and Selwood clear front runners. Would probably have Pendles just ahead of Ryder just ahead of Selwood atm. Higgins is about the only bloke capable of an upset.

Where do you see Ryder playing in the future? I seriously think he is wasted as a long term Key defender. I don't think he will ever have the bulk to hold down ruck without getting injured regularly. I think within the next 2 years we will see him with an Adam Goodes type role playing forward back and alot of midfield. Given he is already streets ahead of Goodes at the same stage I can't help but feel we have something very special at Bomberland.

[dogsact]

I agree. He has incredible athleticism. Maybe he will be more the Jeff White type athletic ruckman moreso than the Big Strong Primus type. Whatever they do, Im sure we can expect great things. Go Paddy.