‘AFL Legend’s Shocking Verdict on Hawthorn Ruckman Lloyd Meek: The Top Contender’

Nathan Brown, a legend of the Western Bulldogs, has made the bold assertion that Lloyd Meek currently holds the title of the top ruckman in the AFL.

This surprising claim follows an outstanding performance by Meek in Hawthorn’s recent victory over GWS on Saturday night in Launceston, where he recorded a remarkable 31 hit-outs, secured four clearances, and scored a goal.

Meek’s season has begun exceptionally well, facing off against renowned players like Tom De Koning, Brodie Grundy, and Kieren Briggs.

“I don’t believe it’s an outrageous claim to say Lloyd Meek is now the premier ruckman in the league,” Brown remarked on Nine’s Sunday Footy Show.

“He truly dominated in the second term, claiming virtually every centre clearance except for one.”

Brown highlighted Meek’s remarkable capacity to traverse the field quickly and wear down his opponents, leading to a pivotal goal in the second quarter as the Hawks rallied against the Giants.

They scored six consecutive goals in that term, firmly taking charge of the match.

“I can tell you, facing him as an opposing ruckman is not something you want to experience,” he stated. “Right now, he’s the best ruckman in the competition.”

Hawthorn secured Meek’s services in 2022 through a trade with Fremantle, where he was initially regarded as a secondary asset alongside a third-round pick for Jaeger O’Meara.

Essendon legend Matthew Lloyd advocates that this approach serves as an ideal model for scouting a starting ruckman.

“It’s remarkable; they say never draft a ruckman—let another club handle the development, and then bring them on board, which the Hawks have executed perfectly,” Lloyd remarked.