Western Bulldogs ruckman Tom Campbell explores trade options

CLUBS looking for a ruckman should give the Western Bulldogs a call with a contracted big man considering a move to escape a big man logjam at the kennel.

Western Bulldogs ruckman Tom Campbell kicks at goal. Picture: Michael Klein

WESTERN Bulldogs ruckman Tom Campbell will explore his trade options to potentially escape the big man logjam at the kennel.

Campbell, 26, has slid back in the ruck pecking order behind Jordan Roughead, new free agent pick-up Jackson Trengove, premiership hero Tom Boyd and potentially first-round draftee Tim English for next season.

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The 205cm English, who has been likened to West Coast champion Dean Cox for his athletic abilities, has already been re-signed until the end of 2020 after an encouraging first year.

The glut of ruckmen has prompted the 200cm Campbell to consider his options after playing only seven senior games this season and 42 matches in total over the past six years.

Coach Luke Beveridge pulled a major selection surprise when the Dogs selected the spindly English over Campbell in Rounds 10 and 12 this year.

Western Bulldogs ruckman Tom Campbell is looking for a new home. Picture: Michael Klein

The Herald Sun understands the Dogs would be open to a deal if Campbell can find another new home in this year’s trade period.

He could give another club a strong presence in the ruck contests.

The strong-bodied Campbell averaged 33 hitouts, two marks and nine possessions a game this season.

But his prospects at the kennel next year may be limited as Beveridge has a strong preference for his ruckmen to be heavily involved in the game around the ground and at ground level.

Campbell started strong in the Dogs’ 2016 premiership season but suffered a heel injury which kept him sidelined after Round 13.

He has one more year to run on his contract at Whitten Oval.