Liam Baker: The first-year small forward managed Achilles soreness in his first pre-season before progressing into full training. Gravitated towards Dan Butler and Jason Castagna as mentors in his first summer.
Noah Balta: Another young Tiger who had to take it easy early in the pre-season because of soreness, Balta has played as a ruckman and a defender, but he has settled with the forwards this pre-season. Has looked to Alex Rance in training to learn from the All Australian captain.
Shai Bolton: An impressive JLT Community Series has pushed Bolton to the front of the queue to replace injured small forward Daniel Rioli in round one. Defensive pressure is what the Tigers wanted to see, and he delivered enough while still showing his offensive flair.
Dan Butler: A member of the premiership mosquito fleet in attack, Butler pushed onto a wing at times during the pre-season competition. His creativity stood out against North Melbourne.
Jason Castagna: Laid three tackles in each of his pre-season games and kicked three goals, easing into the season in his customary small forward role. His defensive pressure remains crucial to the Tigers' game plan.
Mabior Chol: Got his chance in the opening pre-season game against Essendon, but the small structure in attack appears preferable to playing Chol as a second tall forward. Won 10 hit-outs in that clash and has development still in him.
Jack Higgins: A much-hyped pre-season at Tigerland saw him pushing for round one berth as Rioli's replacement, but will likely start the season in the VFL. If he stays fit, the first-year midfielder/forward won't be denied an opportunity this year.
Callum Moore: Looks the most likely option if the Tigers decide to bring in a second tall forward. Entering his third season, the exciting rookie kicked two goals in an impressive second half cameo against the Kangaroos.
Daniel Rioli: The valuable small forward has spent the entire pre-season working his way back from a broken foot suffered in the Grand Final. He started running at close to full pace two weeks ago and will now build the necessary conditioning before playing.
Jack Riewoldt: A crucial cog in the premiership, Riewoldt is again preparing to play as a sole tall forward in 2018. His leadership and willingness to sacrifice his own game to create contests and bring the ball to ground was lauded at Tigerland.
Tyson Stengle: An exciting prospect, the small forward spent 2017 developing in the VFL and was one of the state league's best goalsneaks. Brings defensive pressure and is available to play off the rookie list.
Jacob Townsend: The fairytale story of the premiership, Townsend's toughness was again on display in the JLT Community Series. Booted through goals across both games, but it was his ability to impact the contest that stood out.
