Agent of Carlton Midfielder Reveals “Likely Scenario” as Blues Grant Permission to Seek Move: A Deep Dive into AFL Trade News
As the AFL trade period approaches, Carlton midfielder Paddy Dow has become a central figure in the discussions about player movement. After years of fluctuating form and opportunities at the Blues, it now appears that Dow’s time at Carlton is coming to an end, with his agent revealing the “likely scenario” for his future. The Blues have given Dow permission to explore his options and seek a fresh start at another club, signaling the end of a journey that began when he was drafted with great expectations.
In this article, we will delve deep into the key factors surrounding Dow’s potential trade, the reasons behind Carlton’s decision, and what this move could mean for both Dow and the club. We’ll also explore the broader context of the AFL trade period and how it affects teams looking to rebuild or strengthen their lists.
The Rise of Paddy Dow: High Hopes and Unfulfilled Potential
When Carlton selected Paddy Dow with the third overall pick in the 2017 AFL Draft, expectations were sky-high. The young midfielder from Victoria had shown immense promise in his junior career, displaying an impressive combination of speed, agility, and footy smarts. Dow was touted as a future star who could help lead the Blues out of the doldrums and into a new era of success.
His early seasons at Carlton showed glimpses of his potential. He made his debut in 2018 and played 20 games in his first season, averaging nearly 15 disposals and earning a Rising Star nomination. His ability to break lines, accelerate out of stoppages, and contribute offensively gave fans hope that he could develop into a key player in Carlton’s midfield.
However, as his career progressed, Dow struggled to find consistency. Injuries, form issues, and a changing game style at Carlton led to fluctuating performances. While his natural talent was undeniable, Dow often found himself on the fringes of the Blues’ best 22, competing for a midfield spot in a side that was still trying to establish its identity under coach Michael Voss.
Carlton’s Midfield Depth: Squeezing Out Dow
One of the key reasons behind Dow’s struggles at Carlton has been the club’s increasingly deep midfield. Over the past few years, the Blues have invested heavily in building a formidable on-ball brigade, with the likes of Patrick Cripps, Sam Walsh, and Adam Cerra forming the core of their midfield unit. Additionally, the emergence of younger players like Matthew Kennedy and George Hewett has made it even more challenging for Dow to secure a regular spot in the starting lineup.
Cripps, the Carlton captain and 2022 Brownlow Medalist, has been the linchpin of the Blues’ midfield for years. His ability to dominate stoppages, win contested ball, and lead by example has made him irreplaceable in the side. Meanwhile, Walsh’s meteoric rise to stardom since being drafted in 2018 has solidified his role as one of the AFL’s brightest young stars. Add to that the recruitment of Cerra from Fremantle and the development of Kennedy, and it becomes clear why Dow has struggled to break into the team regularly.
While Dow’s athleticism and speed are valuable assets, his inability to cement a consistent role within Carlton’s midfield has seen him fall down the pecking order. He spent large portions of the 2023 season playing in the VFL, where he performed admirably, but the step up to AFL level has proven difficult.
The Decision to Seek a Trade: Fresh Start on the Horizon
With the AFL trade period approaching, it became increasingly apparent that both Dow and Carlton needed a change. The Blues have given Dow permission to seek a trade, allowing him and his management team to explore potential suitors and find a club where he can rediscover his form and fulfill the potential that made him such a highly sought-after draft pick.
Dow’s agent recently revealed the “likely scenario” for the midfielder, stating that his client would almost certainly be seeking a fresh start at a new club in 2024. “The conversations have been ongoing, and we’ve reached a point where both parties agree that a change of environment would be the best outcome for Paddy,” the agent said. “He’s still young, he’s got plenty of football ahead of him, and we believe a fresh start at a club that needs his specific skill set will give him the best chance to succeed.”
The agent’s comments have fueled speculation about which clubs might be interested in acquiring Dow’s services. Several clubs in need of midfield depth have been linked with the 23-year-old, including teams like St Kilda, Essendon, and North Melbourne, all of which are looking to bolster their on-ball divisions.
What Dow Brings to a New Club
While Dow’s career at Carlton hasn’t gone as smoothly as expected, there is still plenty of upside to his game, which could make him an attractive target for clubs in the market for a dynamic midfielder. One of Dow’s greatest strengths is his ability to break away from contests with speed. His burst from stoppages, combined with his agility and footy IQ, makes him a dangerous player when in form.
Dow’s work in tight spaces and his ability to win clearances are also valuable traits. While his kicking efficiency has been criticized at times, his handballing ability and vision in congested situations are assets that could be further developed in the right environment. Additionally, at just 23 years old, Dow has plenty of time to develop and improve his game.
For clubs that are in the process of rebuilding or looking to add a bit of pace and dynamism to their midfield, Dow could be an excellent fit. With a change of scenery and a new system that suits his strengths, Dow has the potential to reignite his career and become a key contributor at AFL level.
Carlton’s Perspective: Moving Forward
From Carlton’s perspective, the decision to allow Dow to explore his options reflects the club’s current trajectory and their desire to optimize their list. The Blues are building a team capable of contending for finals and eventually a premiership, and while Dow’s talent is undeniable, the club is focused on players who can consistently deliver at the highest level.
With Patrick Cripps, Sam Walsh, and Adam Cerra leading the midfield, along with strong support from Matthew Kennedy and George Hewett, Carlton has developed a midfield unit that is capable of matching it with the best in the league. The club’s decision to allow Dow to seek a trade is an acknowledgment that, while Dow’s potential remains high, the fit within Carlton’s structure may no longer be ideal.
By granting Dow permission to explore a move, Carlton can also focus on building its list for the future, potentially using any trade assets gained from Dow’s departure to continue strengthening other areas of the ground.
Potential Suitors and Trade Scenarios
As the AFL trade period approaches, several clubs are expected to show interest in Dow. St Kilda, in particular, has been mentioned as a possible destination. The Saints are in the market for midfielders with pace and breakaway ability, and Dow could complement their existing midfield group, which includes Jack Steele and Brad Crouch.
Essendon has also been rumored as a potential suitor, especially as they look to bolster their midfield stocks following the retirement of some senior players and their overall desire to return to finals contention. Dow’s speed and ability to transition the ball could appeal to the Bombers’ game style, which focuses on quick ball movement.
North Melbourne, a team in the midst of a rebuild, may also look at Dow as a player who could provide both immediate impact and long-term upside. With coach Alastair Clarkson looking to inject more talent and youth into the Kangaroos’ midfield, Dow’s profile could fit well within their plans.
In terms of trade value, Dow’s standing as a former top-10 draft pick still holds weight, but his inconsistent form at AFL level may limit the return Carlton can expect in a trade. A second-round pick or a package involving a fringe player and a later pick could be on the table, depending on the interested clubs and how negotiations unfold.
The End of an Era, and a New Beginning
Paddy Dow’s likely departure from Carlton marks the end of a chapter in both his career and the club’s journey. While Dow was once seen as a future star for the Blues, the realities of AFL football — where competition for spots is fierce and success is paramount — have led to a situation where a fresh start is the best option for both parties.
For Dow, the opportunity to move to a new club represents a chance to reignite his career, rediscover his confidence, and showcase the talent that made him such a highly rated prospect. For Carlton, the move is a step toward refining their list and continuing their push toward success in the coming years.
As the AFL trade period unfolds, all eyes will be on where Dow lands and how his career unfolds from here. Whether it’s St Kilda, Essendon, North Melbourne, or another club, one thing is certain: Paddy Dow’s story in the AFL is far from over, and a new chapter is about to begin.
