Time in defence has allowed Jack Redpath to evolve as a footballer and now the bustling tall has returned to the forward line, his improvement can be seen on more than just the scoreboard.

The 23-year-old Bulldogs rookie is currently placed second overall in the VFL’s goal score tally (24 majors) but his consistency of effort, body positioning and physicality have also improved significantly.

“We’ve really narrowed his focus on his forward craft this year after spending last year down back as part of his development,” Development Coach Ashley Hansen said.

“[This year he] has given us a really strong target down the ground and he has been finishing his work off by hitting the scoreboard, so he’s been a really solid contributor.”

Hansen said the tall forward is learning to use his size and strength to his advantage.

“He’s a traditional forward, he’s really quick - his closing speed onto the ball is very high, so for a guy of his size to have that speed, he can get some really good separation from his defender,” he said.

“I also think just his physical size in the contest [is an asset].

“So now that we’ve got his marking craft to a level that’s consistent, he’s been able to really fight and hold some really strong positions, which is allowing him to get two hands to the ball.

“And if he’s not marking it bringing it to a really consistent position on the ground to our drop of ball players which is really important as a key forward.”

The benefits of multiple pre-seasons at the kennel are also beginning to show in his game, with improved aerobic levels allowing him to cover more ground and contest more often.

“I definitely think his aerobic capacity has got him to a stage in his career where he can cover the ground which is really important,” he said.

“He’s a big solid lad Jack, and I think he’s got the ability to get to more contests where he can use his strength.

“His focus up forward of getting into a… really dangerous position in the forward 50 and then to hold front spot and be really strong overhead has added a real offensive weapon to his game.”