In 2021, Paddy Dow's future with the Carlton Football Club was looking bright. After spending time in the VFL after his omission in the Round 7 win over Essendon, the midfielder would return to the senior side, and with it solidify a permanent spot in the midfield for the rest of the season.
Dow would arguably produce the best football of his young career with excellent performances against Adelaide, Fremantle, and St Kilda. The type of performances as to why the Blues rated him so highly when drafting him five years ago.
Fast forward to this season and Dow would be on the outer after Carlton bolstered its midfield depth by acquiring George Hewett and Adam Cerra. Ultimately, those additions put Dow down the pecking order, only managing two games in season 2022. Given limited opportunities at senior level, the 22-year-old was a standout for Carlton's VFL side. Dow won the side's best and fairest after averaging 28.4 disposals, 7.8 clearances, 3.2 tackles, and 4.5 Inside 50s.
Although he is exploring his options, he is still contracted to Carlton until the end of 2023, meaning the club will have to negotiate with other suitors to get a deal done.
These are five clubs in no particular order who could pursue the former number three pick.
1. Richmond
A move perhaps to Punt Road? Seeking new opportunities in the yellow and black would be the way to go for Dow as the Tigers possess a midfield which will only get stronger.
With the addition of former Giant Tim Taranto, and Jacob Hopper likely joining him, Dow would get more opportunities with the on-ball versatility the Tigers possess.
With former Captain Trent Cotchin in the twilight of his career and superstar Dustin Martin spending more time forward, it sets up an opportunity for him to spend the majority of his minutes in the midfield.
If Dow joins Richmond, it would help the side with contested possession having ranked 12th in Season 2022, while he would also join his brother, Thomson, at the club.
