Adelaide's midfield arguably runs as deep as any club in the competition, putting the likes of Sam Berry on the outer.
The Crows onballer was subject to a slide in ranking due to the inclusion of James Peatling, and to an extent Alex Neal-Bullen and Isaac Cumming also filling roles.
The development of Izak Rankine as a midfielder has also put a strain on selection, while draftee Sid Draper has been limited in his opportunity despite warranting a best 22 call.
The newfound depth at West Lakes has "forced" Berry to redefine his preparation and determination, utilising the early-season challenges as motivation to muscle his way into Matthew Nicks' side.
He was used as the sub from Rounds 6-10, which ultimately put a "fire in my belly", but was glad to have recently shaken the sub tag.
"I guess it's challenging, but it also put a bit of fire in my belly," Berry said.
"We got a couple of recruits in - James Peatling probably took my spot to start, and he was playing really good footy.
"I can't really be angry about it, but I just really had to force my way in.
"I say it to people that, as challenging as it is personally, it's so great for the Club, and it shows we are in a really good space as far as depth.
"As tough as it is and as challenging as it is, for me it feels really rewarding now, and I feel grateful every time I go out onto the field."
Berry's past month has been reward-for-effort, playing full minutes as the Crows claimed victories in all but one of the encounters, going down narrowly to Hawthorn before the club's mid-season bye.
Adelaide will return to face Richmond on Sunday at the MCG, which will be their last trip to the home of football for 2025 in the home and away season.
They've had a mixed bag of results at the MCG thus far, smashing Essendon by 61 points in Round 2 before losing to premiership favourites Collingwood by 10 points eight weeks later.
The Crows' season to date has them sitting fourth on the ladder, recording nine wins from 14 starts and pushing for September action for the first time since 2017.
"The vibes are high, but we are not content."
