Kyle Langford sampled just about every area of the ground in 2016.
The second year player spent most of his time in the midfield and across half forward but there was also a brief sojourn into defence.
After eight games in his first season, the 19 year old added 17 more to his career tally.
Langford booted 12 goals for the season (4th overall at Essendon) including three in the Bombers win over Carlton in round 23.
The former Northern Knight’s ability to present and mark across half forward proved invaluable with Langford averaging five marks and three inside 50’s per game.
“His mindset around being open to trying different things was good,” Essendon Coach John Worsfold said.
“He didn’t just start to get frustrated. In the pre-season we did throw him through the midfield to have a look at him there.
“Then midway through the year we sent him back into the VFL to go full time into the midfield and almost be the main man in there. We saw the talent he’s got – he was getting in the mid 20’s, high 20’s for possessions and a lot of clearances.
“We’re really pleased with his development and he’s got a lot of development to go yet, in terms of AFL footy and definitely as an AFL midfielder, but he's shown signs to say that’s where he should be aiming to get to.”
Like many of his young teammates, Langford wasn’t given the luxury of finding his way at senior level in a peripheral role.
From tagging Patrick Danigerfield in the NAB Challenge, to starting in the centre square Langford’s development was fast-tracked by the coaches willingness to position him in key roles.
Langford’s rate of improvement:
2015 2016
Games 8 17
Goals 3 12
Ave disposals 8.0 15.3
Ave cont poss. 3.4 4.8
Ave metres gain 73.9 216.4
Score involvs 3.4 4.7
Marks 1.9 4.8
Tackles 2.4 3.5
Inside 50’s 1.3 2.9
