Goldsmith had an injury-interrupted season with Raiders in 2015, kicking 37 goals in 12 games.

Coach Daryn Cresswell is hoping to have the key position utility for around half the season, but confirmed he will play the much-anticipated season-opener at home against premiers Wangaratta on Easter Saturday.

“I think we saw what he’s capable of with that seven from the ruck-forward in the first semi against Yarrawonga,” Cresswell said of his tall recruit.

“He’s played NEAFL representative footy and we’ve obviously had a pretty good relationship, kept in touch and he’s always showed the passion to come back and play some games back down here.

“It’s pretty well-documented we lack a bit of height, we’re not sure how many games we’re going to get out of him just yet, depending on work.”

Goldsmith played with Labrador Tigers on the Gold Coast last season, but will be based in Melbourne.

“Jake can play ruck, so he’s a big boy, definitely when he’s forward, he’s key forward,” Cresswell said.

It will be an exciting lineup, with the classy Sam Stubbs and livewire Brodie Filo.

Stubbs has impressed rival coaches with his strong hands during the pre-season and shapes as one of the finds of the season.

Raiders are tipped as the season’s big improver after falling to Lavington in last year’s elimination final at Albury Sportsground.

And the club’s pre-season form has only enhanced that thinking.

Raiders won their three games by a combined margin of 305 points, including the weekend’s thumping win over Ballarat Swans at Ballarat.

“It was the windiest conditions I’ve ever seen in my life,” Cresswell said.

“You kicked the ball one way and it would nearly land back over your head.”