There's no denying it, the Western Bulldogs had a very forgettable 2023 season.

With one of the strongest lists (on paper) in the competition, the Dogs ultimately underperformed in many ways. Whether it was down to coaching, individual player performances or mistakes that shouldn't occur at AFL level, the Dogs lost their bite.

Missing out on finals was perhaps the worst outcome for the club. Despite sneaking into the top eight in 2022, they once again relied on another team's results to see them head into September action.

The Dogs made a few list changes over the trade period, most notably bringing in Saint's defender Nick Coffield and out-of-favour Demon James Harmes. In regards to the club's departures, Jordon Sweet was the only Bulldog sent out of the Kennel. The 25-year-old ruckman was traded to Port Adelaide for pick 50.

In the national draft, the Bulldogs selected Ryley Sanders at pick 6 and father-son recruit Jordan Croft at pick 15. Additionally, the Dogs picked up Joel Freijah, Lachlan Smith and Aiden O'Driscoll at picks 45, 47 and 55.

Bulldogs Taylor Duryea and Lachie McNeil were kept on the list through the Rookie Draft also.

With all this in mind, we had a look at the Bulldogs list and came up with our proposed best 23.

BEST 23s:
ADELAIDE CROWS, BRISBANE LIONS, CARLTON, COLLINGWOOD, ESSENDON, FREMANTLE, GEELONG CATS, GOLD COAST SUNS, GWS GIANTS, HAWTHORN, MELBOURNE, NORTH MELBOURNE, PORT ADELAIDE, RICHMOND, ST KILDA, SYDNEY, WEST COAST

3. Forwards

After signing a new contract extension that will keep him at the club until the end of 2032, all eyes will be on Aaron Naughton. The key forward shows glimpses of genuine talent and poise, however, his consistency is still a glaring dampener in his game.

Young superstar Jamarra Ugle-Hagan will be sure to have a career-best year after elevating his game in 2023. Additionally, tall Rory Lobb will be looking to improve on an average start to life as a Bulldog having moved over from the Dockers ahead of last season. Half-forwards Adam Treloar and Bailey Williams had great seasons in 2023 and are sure to continue their stellar form for years to come.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 30: Jamarra Ugle-Hagan of the Bulldogs points to his skin as he celebrates kicking a goal during the round three AFL match between Western Bulldogs and Brisbane Lions at Marvel Stadium, on March 30, 2023, in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Daniel Pockett/Getty Images)
Sam Darcy is an interesting one who could cause some damage in 2024. Selected with pick 2 in the 2021 draft as a father-son selection, Darcy has only managed seven games at the senior level. Poised for a breakout year, Darcy could become the next big key forward in the competition.
Small forward Cody Weightman has plenty to offer the side whilst Anthony Scott has the versatility to aid both the midfield and forward line. Weightman is a crucial piece in the Dogs forward line, providing plenty of spark and poise with the ball in hand.