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.
4. Geelong
A return down the highway to the Cattery in a culture which continuously gets the most out of players could be the go. Dow is no stranger to the area having played his football at Geelong Grammar.
Whilst the Cats put the oldest side together, which went on to win its 10th Premiership, injecting him would help bolster its on-ball stocks.
With experienced campaigners Mitch Duncan, Cam Guthrie and Patrick Dangerfield not getting any younger, and the retirement of club champion Joel Selwood, Dow would be a nice addition.
Geelong have made a conscious effort in fielding youngsters including Sam De Koning, Brad Close, and Max Holmes, which in hindsight balances out the playing list. Having Dow in the blue and white hoops could be pivotal in rejuvenating a career still full of potential and there is no better club to do so in Geelong.
