Since winning three premierships from 2001 to 2003, and losing the 2004 Grand Final to Port Adelaide, the Lions have been unable to crack a spot in the top eight.
The feeling around the club is that this year could – and should – be different, but only if the Lions' second-tier players make the jump up in form, says Brennan.
“Browny and Blacky were brilliant last year so we have to provide enough support and step up," he said.
“Guys like myself, [Joely Macdonald], Joel Patful, Michael Rischitelli – that's the key. We have to support them.”
A lack of consistent performances across the park hurt the Lions in 2008, with too much left to too few according to the often brilliant utility.
“Blacky almost won the Brownlow (Medal) and Browny won our B&F (best and fairest), so they had brilliant years and we still didn't make the finals.
“We can't rely on those guys. They could have another brilliant year and we mighten make it, so the key is for us to support them."
Brennan had arguably his best season of senior footy last year, splitting his time between the forward line and midfield.
The stylish left-footer was rewarded with a spot on Australia's International Rules team for the two Tests against Ireland.
Brennan, 24, said he was eager to play more football in the midfield this season but was happy to go wherever new coach Michael Voss wanted him.
Known for his freakish ability in the air and on the ground, Brennan said incorporating other elements to his play was a key to last season's development.
“Times before when I wasn't in games I thought the only way I could get involved was getting the ball. But last year I thought I could get involved by laying a tackle and not just kicking a freaky goal or taking a hanger,” he said.
“You can keep tackling, lay a shepherd.
“I've always prided myself on tackling but it's not what I'm known for. It's a good way to get involved without touching the ball."
It is this sort of continued development that Brennan hopes will be replicated across the team and lift the Lions back towards the finals.
“Our expectation is to definitely make the finals. I think we've got one of the best forwards in the game, one of the best midfielders in the game, and now we've got enough guys who have played enough senior footy to take that next step.
“I'd like to think we're not there to make up the numbers again."
