The build-up to the season has been measured. Having sat out of the game for 12 months his fitness program was always going to be handled very carefully. Salmon had done some running during his time away from the game but he hadn't done any explosive work or put his body under any real pressure. John Quinn has taken him along quietly for that very reason and apart from the odd - and very much expected - niggle, he is on track for Essendon's round one clash with Geelong.
Salmon was lured out of retirement to boost the Bombers' ruck division in the wake of John Barnes' retirement. Steven Alessio will assume the mantle as Essendon's number one ruckman while David Hille continues to develop. Salmon will probably slot in somewhere between the pair. His experience and size will make him an awkward proposition. Essendon needs someone to get their hands on the ball first and Salmon is more than capable of doing that - with the 2001 draft light on for ruckman it was a gamble worth taking.
Salmon will also serve as an excellent master for Essendon's younger ruckman - David Hille and Simon O'Keefe. With 309 games under his belt, he knows the ruck caper back-to-front and he should be able to pass on some valuable tips to the younger pair.
What will be his role on match days?
Salmon will be used extensively off the bench and when on the ground he will obviously be used in the ruck. He may also push forward on ocassions to try and stretch the opposition defence. Depending on the flow of the game he could also push back and drop into the hole in front of the opposition full forward.
What will the coaching staff expect on match day?
The major reason the Bombers' recruited Salmon was so they had someone who could get their hands on the football first at centre bounces and stoppages - and that is what will be expected of him. If Essendon wins centre clearances and stoppage clearances, Salmon will have done his job.
