It was another typically reliable campaign for the 2020 All Australian, although Sheppard no doubt saw more of the football than he would have liked in defence.
The 30-year-old was rock-solid early in the season before running into some injury misfortune, with a sore ankle suffered in round 10 against the Giants lingering before he suffered a nasty concussion two weeks later against Carlton.
He returned after the bye and continued playing good football in an at times under siege backline before missing the final round trip to Brisbane after suffering delayed concussion from the RAC Derby.
Standout performance: Holding up the Hawks
Back at the MCG for the first time in more than 19 months, the Eagles outclassed Hawthorn and Sheppard enjoyed a day out, racking up an equal career-best 27 disposals with 12 marks in a West Coast defence which limited the Hawks to eight goals in a 38-point victory on Mothers Day.
Easily the most experienced defender in the team – which was missing premiership quartet Shannon Hurn, Jeremy McGovern, Tom Barrass and Liam Duggan – the All Australian backman marshalled the troops in a resolute performance at the home of football.
Season averages:
Disposals – 17.4
Marks – 6.5
One percenters - 3
Spoils - 2.5
Rebound 50s – 2.5
