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Why Jordan Dawson is optimistic on Dan Curtin's new role for Crows
Nicholas Quinlan • March 8th, 2025 12:24 pm
Adelaide’s captain Jordan Dawson believes that Daniel Curtin has what it takes to play an important role for the Crows in 2025.
After a tight three-point win against the Brisbane Lions in the AAMI Community Series, there is some optimism that Adelaide can take the next step in their development and play finals for the first time since 2017.
One player who could help that predicted uptick is Curtin, the Pick 8 from the 2023 draft, who played seven games in his debut season.
Dawson spoke of the potential that the second-year player has for Adelaide, predicting that the 19-year-old will become a midfield star.
“Well, I feel like eventually he’ll probably take my spot in the midfield, that's what I think,” Dawson said on SEN Breakfast.
“He’s pretty similar to me although he’s 10 kilos heavier and a couple inches bigger so he’s going to be a beast.
“He’s got a beautiful kick.”
Being viewed as a key defender in his junior days, Adelaide traded up with GWS in the 2023 draft to be able to secure the Western Australian who had been seen as a top five pick.
Whilst not starring in his debut year, he managed to play seven games across the season, playing in their backline to start with.
But across the back half of the year and throughout pre-season, Curtin has been featuring in more of a midfield/forward role for Adelaide with Dawson believing he has found a position to play consistently in 2025.
“He’s had a really good pre-season down forward,” Dawson added.
“He’s got that forward-wing role set I think, and I feel like having a consistent role for him this year will be important.
“I feel like that obviously we have tried a few roles last year to come in and play AFL footy as an 18-year-old is hard enough, but let alone changing your position, so he’ll be set in the forward line.
“He’s really impressed everyone with his ability to break tackles and play that forward role.
“He’ll be a good wing substitute for us as well throughout the games.”
Dawson has been a mentor for Curtin across the pre-season as he makes the transition into playing more midfield minutes.
Curtin told AFC Media last year that Dawson has been helpful by providing assistance and tips on how he can elevate his game within the midfield.
“I’ve been leaning on 'Daws' quite a bit over the pre-season, really trying to pick his brain and take some of his traits into my game,” Curtin said.
“Training in the midfield group now, I’ve had the benefit of spending more time with him, doing craft sessions with him and asking him about how he attacks the game.”
Adelaide will begin their 2025 season against St Kilda at Adelaide Oval next Sunday.
Photo Credit: AFC Media
