After a shocking head clash with Nat Fyfe in the AAMI Community Series Derby, Zac Langdon’s round one debut was no certainty, but the small forward managed a speedy recovery from concussion and returned to Optus in his first official match for the year against Gold Coast. From there, the former Giant built a promising 2021 campaign, being named in 17 out of a possible 23 matches in the home-and-away season, including one as an unused medical sub, and he was part of all 10 wins. Langdon’s chasing and pressure added to the Eagles’ forward line, and there is plenty to build on for next season.

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Best of 2021 - Witherden & Langdon

Have a look at the best highlights from our 2021 season from a crafty forward and an equally crafty defender

Standout performance: Richmond rumble

Langdon’s standout performance – like many Eagles this season – was the Optus Stadium thriller against Richmond. The 25-year-old pieced together career-high numbers in marks (nine) and kicks (10), as well as taking home 16 disposals, two tackles, and four contested possessions. This followed another stellar performance against Carlton the week prior, where Langdon managed a career-best 20 disposals, four marks, two tackles and a goal.

Season averages:

Disposal efficiency - 73.1

Intercept possessions - 1.5

Ground ball gets - 3.5

Handballs - 5.9

Marks - 3.2