Daniel Wells has learnt to treat football as a part of his life, not the meaning of it.

Wells was seen as North Melbourne's future when selected as the No.2 pick in the 2002 national draft. St Kilda utility Brendon Goddard was the top pick.

Saints coach Ross Lyon this week said Goddard was still developing as a player, yet to win a club best and fairest.

Unlike Wells, Goddard can at least boast two All-Australian selections.

Wells was equal runner-up in North's club award in 2002 and fifth last year.

In between there have been injuries, flashes of brilliance, heavy physical pressure from midfield taggers and no shortage of criticism from over the fence.

"No I'm okay with it. It's just part of the game," the 82kg Wells told AAP on Friday.

"People take it way too serious. People say what they want to say.

"Once you realise where it stands in your life and how much you enjoy playing the game, it's just a blessing to be still playing after the injury I had (groin problem in 2009).

"You've just got to keep going and make the most of it. As long as you're enjoying your footy, it doesn't really matter what anyone else thinks."

The West Australian was tempted by an offer from West Coast and found it a difficult decision after eight years with North to sign on for three more.

"I'm glad I made the right choice. Now I can just concentrate on playing some good footy," the 26-year-old said.

"I've got my wife (Mariangela) and my daughter (Laudate, aged two).

"We've got a great little family and their support for me is phenomenal.

"They've been massive for me and hopefully I've been the same for them as well, because it's not all about footy."

Wells is averaging 23 possessions per game this year, beating his previous best of 21.1 in 2008. Last week the athletic midfielder had a season-high 28 touches for 15th-placed North in a losing side against Geelong.

"I'm just glad I'm still here," he said.

"There's a lot of players who have come and gone since I've been here.

"To still have that demand and that will to be the player you want to be, you try to be your best.

"That's all you can do."

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