The Western Bulldogs' back line was heavily criticised at times last season but retiring defender Easton Wood likes what he sees in the evolving group.

West Coast ruckman Nic Naitanui says it makes sense for AFL and AFLW players to be fully vaccinated given the amount of travelling that occurs in the industry.

Flag hero Easton Wood has announced his AFL retirement after 188 games for the Western Bulldogs over 14 seasons.

All AFL and AFLW players will be need to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 by February 18 with the schedule to take place across three stages.

Hawthorn star Jack Gunston is on track to return to AFL action next year after his 2021 AFL season was wiped out by a back issue that required surgery twice.

Former Carlton and Adelaide champion Eddie Betts will pull on the boots for Palmerston in the Northern Territory competition this season.