Hello and welcome to the 2023 Fox Footy AFL Phantom Draft!
These get harder to do each year, especially when 28 — some reckon 29 — picks are expected to take place on night one of the AFL Draft, which will commence at 7pm (AEDT) on Monday November 20.
Foxfooty.com.au predicts how the first round of the draft will pan out, including six rival club bids, plus the inside word on which prospects your club could take on both nights of the two-day event.
Watch the first round of the 2023 AFL Draft on Fox Footy and Kayo from 7pm EDT on Monday November 20. New to Kayo? Start your free trial today >
PICK 1: WEST COAST EAGLES — HARLEY REID
Position: Midfielder/forward
Size: 185cm
Clubs: Bendigo Pioneers/Tongala
AFL player comparison: Dustin Martin
Foxfooty.com.au Draft Power Rankings: 1
He came into the season as the No. 1 draft prospect – one recruiter told foxfooty.com.au at the start of this year Reid was the best talent they‘d ever seen come through the pathway system – and will finish it in the same spot. Fox Footy draft guru Mick Ablett recently labelled Reid a “generational talent”. An explosive, mid-sized prospect who plays with an infectious joy, Reid can play across any line — and win games from any line. He has power at stoppages, great overhead marking ability, a penetrating kick and a knack for hitting the scoreboard consistently. The above picture of Reid almost sums up his draft campaign over the past two years: A trademark fend-off against a VFL opponent while starring for the AFL Academy’s top team. No matter the level or opposition he’s played, he’s delivered at a high level. Reid kicked 5.6 and averaged 20 disposals, 13 contested possessions and a competition-high seven clearances to win Vic Country’s MVP award at the national champs. He also played for the AFL Academy, Bendigo Pioneers, Carlton’s VFL side, Essendon’s VFL side and Tongala this year. It’s hard to think of a draft prospect in recent times who’s attracted more attention and headlines than Reid has this year – he was even ‘papped’ at Perth airport then seen signing Eagles gear after a carnival game against WA – but he’s carried himself superbly.
In the mix/trade watch: Reid should be taken at Pick 1 next week — it’s just a case of which club will hold that pick. North Melbourne, Hawthorn and Melbourne have all made offers for the selection — and the Roos could still make a play for it on draft night. But it now seems most likely Reid will begin his AFL career at West Coast.
PICK 2: GOLD COAST SUNS — JED WALTER (KANGAROOS’ ACADEMY BID MATCHED)
Position: Key forward
Size: 195cm
Clubs: Gold Coast Suns Academy/Palm Beach Currumbin
AFL player comparison: Charlie Curnow
Foxfooty.com.au Draft Power Rankings: 2
The prospect of Walter and Ben King teaming up in the same forward 50 – under the leadership of new coach Damien Hardwick – next year is mightily tantalising. There hasn’t been a key forward prospect come through the system like Walter. A genuine power forward who loves the physicality of the game, Walter prides himself on his competitiveness in the air, ridiculous want to apply forward pressure and speed running back to goal. One recruiter told foxfooty.com.au seeing Walter chase an opponent was like “watching a lion chase a zebra” and that they’d never seen a key forward prospect so willing to apply relentless defensive pressure. Walter showcased his talent on the national stage for the Allies, booting 11.10 to earn All-Australian selection for the second straight season.
In the mix/trade watch: There’s been some chatter this week North Melbourne might bid on Walter at Pick 3 or not at all. The latter scenario would leave many rival clubs flabbergasted, for some would have Walter ahead of Harley Reid on their draft boards. Should that be the case, the Kangaroos could go straight for Colby McKercher and Zane Duursma — although that latter link isn’t necessarily strong for some sources — to leave Hawthorn to bid on Walter.
PICK 3: NORTH MELBOURNE — COLBY McKERCHER
Position: Midfielder
Size: 182cm
Clubs: Tasmania Devils/Launceston
AFL player comparison: Zach Merrett
Foxfooty.com.au Draft Power Rankings: 3
Not just the best of a strong Tassie crop, but also the best pure midfield prospect in a draft where most of the top players are outside the centre square. Speedy, clean and damaging with a lovely inside-outside balance, McKercher loves to take the game on to break open games and create scores. He isn’t afraid to take the risky option by foot, for he has the kicking skills to often pull it off. Starring at every level he played at in 2023, McKercher was rewarded for his elite consistency. He finished second in the Larke Medal voting after averaging 33 disposals, six marks, six clearances and five inside 50s across four national championships games for the Allies. He then also claimed the Morrish Medal – the award given to the best and fairest player of the Coates Talent League – after kicking 11 goals and averaging 31 disposals from just eight games.
In the mix/trade watch: Should the Roos not trade up to Pick 1 — which now looks most likely — all signs point to McKercher being taken by North Melbourne. The only question is whether he lands at Arden St after the Suns match a North bid on Jed Walter at Pick 2, or the Roos go straight for McKercher with their first pick.
PICK 4: NORTH MELBOURNE — ZANE DUURSMA
Position: Medium forward
Size: 189cm
Clubs: Gippsland Power/Foster
AFL player comparison: Toby Greene
Foxfooty.com.au Draft Power Rankings: 4
A match-winner in every sense that’s going to excited AFL fans for many years. Duursma is competitive and strong in the air, explosive out of stoppages, crafty around goal and composed with ball in hand. Duursma’s awesome finish to his 2023 campaign was a timely, much-needed reminder to scouts of his exciting potential and why he deserves to be taken at the pointy end of the draft. His surge was kickstarted by a dynamic, game-changing performance for Vic Country against Vic Metro at the national carnival where he booted four goals – three in the third quarter to swing the game in his team’s favour – from 22 disposals, 10 marks and five inside 50s. He then turned it on for the Gippsland Power at Coates Talent League level, booting 20 goals and averaging 26 disposals per outing from his final six games.
In the mix/trade watch: North Melbourne has been strongly linked to Duursma for weeks — and most sources believe the Roos will take him after McKercher. But others have suggested North coach Alastair Clarkson is a big fan of top WA prospect Daniel Curtin, who would address an on-field need for the Kangas as a 197cm key defender. With the Eagles’ future first-round pick a high chance of being on the table early in the draft — so they can acquire local lad Curtin — the Roos could pounce first and take the Claremont product instead of Duursma. Gun small forward Nick Watson and even ball magnet Ryley Sanders — who’s a North NGA member — also can’t be ruled out of North’s mix just yet.
PICK 5: HAWTHORN — NICK WATSON
Position: Small forward
Size: 170cm
Clubs: Eastern Ranges/East Ringwood
AFL player comparison: Tom Papley
Foxfooty.com.au Draft Power Rankings: 7
‘The Wizard’ will bring AFL fans through the turnstiles for many years, if his fun and dynamic draft campaign is anything to go by. Watson describes himself as an “Energizer Bunny”, in that he likes to apply defensive pressure and get under the skin of his opponents. Unsurprisingly, he’s a big Tom Papley fan. With the ball, he has unbelievable goal sense, speed, finishing ability and cleanliness at ground level. Watson finished as the leading goalkicker of the national carnival, booting 14.6 for Vic Metro as he conjured goals from all angles and scenarios. He also showed he could play further up the field during several games for the Eastern Ranges, including some impressive performances behind the ball.
In the mix/trade watch: Watson has been strongly linked to the Hawks for weeks, but WA key defender Daniel Curtin has come with a rush into contention at this selection. Curtin earlier this week was flown over to Melbourne to meet with the Hawks — although he was one of several first-round prospects the club interviewed. Some would say it’s 50-50 call between Watson and Curtin, others suggest the Hawks’ Curtin interest isn’t that strong. The other watch surrounds Gippsland medium forward Zane Duursma, for if he slides past the Kangaroos, the Hawks will surely pounce. Trade-wise, the Hawks could be the first club West Coast throws its future first-rounder at, while there has been speculation Melbourne could make a play up to this pick to secure either Watson or Duursma.
PICK 6: WESTERN BULLDOGS — RYLEY SANDERS
Position: Midfielder
Size: 186cm
Clubs: Sandringham Dragons/North Launceston
AFL player comparison: Adam Treloar
Foxfooty.com.au Draft Power Rankings: 8
Few players in this year’s pool showed metronomic consistency — at such a high standard — across all levels like Sanders did. The Tasmanian product, who boarded at Melbourne Grammar and played for the Sandringham Dragons, barely played a bad game, thanks to his competitiveness, strong inside-outside balance and clean hands. He took out the prestigious Larke Medal for the best player of the national championships, averaging a whopping 36 disposals, 15 disposals, six inside 50s, six marks and five tackles for the Allies. He also averaged 31 disposals for the Dragons, racking up at least 25 touches in all of his nine games.
In the mix/trade watch: The Sanders-Bulldogs link is one of the strongest at the top of the draft order, according to sources. And it makes sense, considering the Bulldogs arguably need to bring some young gun on-ballers onto their list. If electric Eastern Ranges goalkicker Nick Watson slips through to this pick, the Bulldogs’ selection wouldn’t be as straight forward.
PICK 7: MELBOURNE — CALEB WINDSOR
Position: Wing
Size: 184cm
Clubs: Eastern Ranges/Lysterfield
AFL player comparison: Justin McInerney
Foxfooty.com.au Draft Power Rankings: 15
The best winger in the draft class in a year where there aren’t too many players of his type at the top end. Windsor’s fan club grew significantly across the back-half of the season as he showcased his electric speed and eye-catching kicking forward of centre. After averaging 16 disposals and five inside 50s for Vic Metro at the national carnival, he starred for the Ranges, averaging 19 disposals from his final eight Coates Talent League games. But what scouts were most impressed with was Windsor’s ability to push forward and consistently hit the scoreboard, kicking one goal in all of those eight matches. He then placed third in the 20m sprint (2.916) at the national draft combine, while also finishing inside the top 10 of both vertical jump tests.
In the mix/trade watch: Should the Dees remain at this pick — they could trade up or part with the pick for West Coast’s future first, which would see the Eagles take Daniel Curtin — Windsor looms as a player that could help address their forward-of-centre kicking issues. Most sources expect the Dees to pounce on Windsor here considering the Giants, who have the next pick, are pretty keen on him. The Dees will consider key defender Curtin, while powerful key forward Nate Caddy should also come onto the radar for the first time.
PICK 8: WEST COAST EAGLES — DANIEL CURTIN (AFTER TRADING WITH GWS GIANTS)
Position: Key defender/midfielder
Size: 195cm
Clubs: Claremont/West Coast
AFL player comparison: Marcus Bontempelli/Steven May
Foxfooty.com.au Draft Power Rankings: 5
A phantom trade! But one that makes sense. Curtin is the ultimate professional who oozes class and leadership. He showed great versatility across his four carnival games to win WA’s MVP award, averaging 24 disposals, nine contested possessions and five tackles while going at 82 per cent by foot. He played across all three lines for his state — including two full games as a tall on-baller where he covered the ground with a Marcus Bontempelli-like presence — but most clubs see him developing into a composed intercept defender at AFL level. That’s where he played in his six WAFL league games for Claremont in the back-end of the season.
In the mix/trade watch: It’d been tough to pin down exactly where Curtin would land on draft night … until word of the Eagles’ future first-round pick being on the table — to help them get their local man — ramped up significantly across recent days. And the Giants seem like the team best placed to take up the offer. As rival clubs suggested on Friday, the Giants are in a good position to trade into next year considering their healthy list demographic and the fact they were within one point of a Grand Final this year. Plus West Coast’s natural first-round selection in 2024 could be very early in a draft pool stacked with top-end midfielders. Plus the Giants have been heavily linked to Caleb Windsor in recent weeks — and if the Demons take him with the previous pick in the draft, it’s further incentive for the Giants to trade out. It’d be a good result too for the Eagles, who’d land both Harley Reid and Curtin — some believe they’re the two players at the top of West Coast’s draft board — within eight picks of each other. Should the Giants hold the pick though, they’re highly likely to take Tasmanian bolter James Leake. Yet it seems the Giants aren’t so wedded to Leake that they wouldn’t be prepared to take the Eagles’ future first if they were offered it. Murray Bushrangers key defender Connor O’Sullivan could also be considered by the Giants.
PICK 9: GOLD COAST SUNS — ETHAN READ (CATS’ ACADEMY BID MATCHED)
Position: Ruck/midfielder
Size: 200cm
Clubs: Gold Coast Suns Academy/Palm Beach Currumbin
AFL player comparison: Dean Cox
Foxfooty.com.au Draft Power Rankings: 6
Suns academy teammate Jed Walter said it best: “Ethan is a freak.” Ultimately, there aren’t too many 200cm prospects who can run a 5:56 2km time trial while also having the pinpoint skills and reflexes of a classy midfielder and the ability to play across all three lines. That’s what Damien Hardwick and the Suns will be getting next year in Read, whose awesome workrate and professionalism set him up for a big draft year. He starred for the Allies during the champs, averaging 22 disposals, three clearances, three tackles and 13 hit-outs to be named the All-Australian ruck. Before the carnival, Read averaged 20 disposals, 20 hit-outs and six marks for the Suns academy in the Coates Talent League before one VFL game for the Suns, in which he booted 0.4 from 12 touches. Allies coach Mark McVeigh reckons Read could play a Mark Blicavs-style role at AFL level and fill chasms wherever needed.
In the mix/trade watch: Geelong now looms as the first club to bid on Read, as the club has been linked to key-position players in this part of the draft. If not, he could have his name read out at Essendon’s selection. The dream result for Gold Coast would be if Read slipped to Sydney’s pick, but rival clubs suggest it’ll be earlier than that. Either way, the Suns will match the bid and acquire their homegrown young gun.
PICK 10: GEELONG CATS — NATE CADDY
Position: Medium forward/midfielder
Size: 192cm
Clubs: Northern Knights/Yarrambat
AFL player comparison: Charlie Curnow
Foxfooty.com.au Draft Power Rankings: 10
Looms as a fan favourite at AFL level. Caddy – the nephew of dual premiership Tiger Josh Caddy – is a unique goalkicker in that he has strong high-marking ability and plays with key-forward like power, dynamism and presence. But he isn’t as tall as some of other key forwards in this year’s draft class. To make up for that, he shows ominous explosiveness when pinch-hitting at centre bounces. He competed hard without much scoreboard reward for effort for Vic Metro, kicking six goals from three national carnival games. But there were three Coates Talent League games this year where he kicked at least four goals from 20-plus disposals.
In the mix/trade watch: While Geelong’s link to key forward Caddy is strong — and it makes sense as he’d give Cats fans a look at the team beyond Tom Hawkins and, eventually, Jeremy Cameron — don’t be surprised if the Cats trade back on draft night, for they’ll listen to offers right up until they’re on the clock. The Crows and Swans are both eyeing off this pick in an attempt to get ahead of Essendon and take Murray Bushrangers star Connor O’Sullivan. Should the Cats trade back, they’d get multiple picks in the teens, where O’Sullivan’s Bushrangers teammate Darcy Wilson would be a strong chance to be taken. Otherwise, top WA talent Daniel Curtin and Tasmania’s James Leake would be strongly considered if the Cats held and they were both free to pick still. And if for some crazy reason Ryley Sanders is still available, the Cats will take him without hesitating.
PICK 11: ESSENDON — CONNOR O’SULLIVAN
Position: Key defender
Size: 198cm
Clubs: Murray Bushrangers/Albury
AFL player comparison: Harris Andrews
Foxfooty.com.au Draft Power Rankings: 9
A remarkable rise across 2023 has put O’Sullivan in the top-10 mix. A competitive and hard-working aerobic beast who has a terrific set of hands – both in the air and at ground level – O’Sullivan is a genuine tall utility who can play inside either arc or even in the midfield. Although he’s thrived this year playing predominantly as a key defender. He knows when to stay on his man and when to peel off and intercept – and he’s equally adept at both arts. Some say he’s the best backman in this year’s pool — even better than Daniel Curtin. He was named the Allies’ MVP – a big honour considering his team’s undefeated carnival campaign – after averaging 18 disposals and a competition-high eight marks. O’Sullivan started the Coates Talent League season as a forward but quickly settled down back, averaging 20 disposals and seven marks across nine games.
In the mix/trade watch: If not O’Sullivan — and there’s a chance he mightn’t be on the board should the Cats take him, or Adelaide or Sydney trade ahead of the Bombers to draft him — Northern Knights forward Nate Caddy would be a good chance after being linked to Essendon. Expect the Bombers to pounce, too, if Eastern Ranges speedster Caleb Windsor was still available at their pick. Should they be on the board, James Leake and even Subiaco’s Koltyn Tholstrup would also be in the mix. There’s still a trade watch on the Bombers and whether they’d be prepared to move down the order to acquire multiple picks. If that happens, WA defender Riley Hardeman has been linked to the Bombers.
PICK 12: ADELAIDE CROWS — JAMES LEAKE
Position: Medium defender/forward
Size: 188cm
Clubs: Tasmania Devils/Launceston
AFL player comparison: Tom Stewart
Foxfooty.com.au Draft Power Rankings: 11
A breathtaking back-end to his 2023 campaign has seen Leake surge towards the top-end of the draft. The Tasmanian has an excellent leap and a strong pair of hands, which helps him at both ends of the field. He’s composed with ball in hand and an excellent interceptor in defence, but just lethal around goal when inside 50. Leake earned a call-up to the Allies squad after a solid start to his Coates Talent League season across half-back – and he delivered on the national stage, playing all four games and averaging 16 disposals and five marks while going at 79 per cent efficiency by foot. Recruiters then really took note when Leake was shifted forward late in the season for the Devils, which saw him kick 15 goals from his last five games — including a haul of five against the Stingrays and a match-turning three against the Falcons.
In the mix/trade watch: Should the Giants ultimately keep their first pick, they’re widely expected to take Leake with that top-10 selection. In that case, hard-running creative winger Darcy Wilson would be the hot favourite to be picked up by the Crows. Other options for Adelaide include, if they’re off the board, key defenders Connor O’Sullivan and Daniel Curtin — they could even trade up for one of those two — while they could be the first club to launch a bid for Hawks father-son gun Will McCabe.
PICK 13: MELBOURNE — KOLTYN THOLSTRUP
Position: Medium forward
Size: 184cm
Clubs: Subiaco/Newtown Condingup
AFL player comparison: Cameron Rayner
Foxfooty.com.au Draft Power Rankings: 18
A high impact and high score involvements player, Tholstrup has been in the first-round mix seemingly since last year. He’s a natural leader who brings ample energy to the footy field and prides himself on “leaving it all out on the field”. After missing WA’s first national champs game with a back issue, Tholstrup had several key moments during an impressive outing against SA, including a standout smother, a good contested mark and a classy late-game goal as he finished with 1.1 from 20 disposals, eight marks and four inside 50s. Just as importantly, Tholstrup had consistent WAFL league exposure at Subiaco, kicking seven goals from 10 matches against bigger bodies. He also tested well at the combine, finishing equal-ninth in the 2km time trial (6:17) then second in the agility test (8.194).
In the mix/trade watch: The Tholstrup-Demons link is strong after the club recently visited his Esperance home. But should Daniel Curtin be on the board still, he surely wouldn’t get past the Demons, who have been linked to the WA defender — although more at Pick 6 than Pick 11. The Dees would also have to consider Darcy Wilson or Nate Caddy should they still be available.
PICK 14: HAWTHORN — WILL McCABE (SWANS’ FATHER-SON BID MATCHED)
Position: Key defender
Size: 197cm
Clubs: Central District/Tanunda
AFL player comparison: Harry Himmelberg
Foxfooty.com.au Draft Power Rankings: 16
Recruiters widely believe McCabe is SA’s top prospect. A mobile and athletic prospect who has great endurance, he can play on either tall or small forwards due to his competitiveness in the air and at ground level. He’s also a precise user by foot, going at 86 per cent kicking efficiency during the national champs. While McCabe endured an injury-interrupted 2023 campaign, his glimpses put him in the first-round mix. He played most of his junior footy as a forward, but starred as a defender this year, averaging 22 disposals and six marks for Central District in the SANFL Under 18s. McCabe is father-son eligible to the Hawks as his dad, Luke McCabe, played 138 games for the club between 1995 to 2004.
In the mix/trade watch: If there’s a bid on McCabe prior to the Swans’ pick, it’s likely to come from Adelaide a few selections earlier. And if the Swans or St Kilda don’t bid on him, he surely won’t slip past Adelaide’s second pick. Nonetheless, the Hawks are well placed to match any bid.
PICK 15: GOLD COAST SUNS — JAKE ROGERS (SWANS’ ACADEMY BID MATCHED)
Position: Midfielder
Size: 172cm
Clubs: Gold Coast Suns Academy/Broadbeach
AFL player comparison: Touk Miller
Foxfooty.com.au Draft Power Rankings: 13
A speedy, agile and tenacious prospect with great decision-making ability, Rogers is one of the cleanest players in the draft class. His creativity and vision allows him to set up scores for his team. Rogers thrived at all levels this season. He averaged 26 disposals for the Suns academy in the Coates Talent League before winning the medal for the AFL Academy’s best player across its two matches against state league opposition. Rogers then earned All-Australian honours for his terrific national carnival for the Allies where he averaged 23 disposals, six clearances and five tackles. Plus he didn’t look out of place in his three games for the Suns’ VFL side. He’s drawn comparisons with Suns co-captain Touk Miller – and, coincidentally, Rogers has worked closely with Miller across the past year to help him transform from a small forward to a genuine on-baller.
In the mix/trade watch: There was word this week Geelong could be the first team to bid on Rogers, although rival clubs believe a bid in the teens seems far more likely. If it’s not the Swans who attempt to pick him, St Kilda could have a crack. The Suns, however, have committed to Rogers, so he’ll stay on the Gold Coast in 2023.
PICK 16: SYDNEY SWANS — WILL GREEN
Position: Ruck
Size: 204cm
Clubs: Northern Knights/Northcote
AFL player comparison: Brodie Grundy
Foxfooty.com.au Draft Power Rankings: 23
Many scouts would consider Green as the second-best ruck prospect in the draft behind Ethan Read. He elevated his standing after an excellent carnival for Vic Metro where he showed off his running power, mobility, ruck craft and competitiveness. Green’s best game came against Read and the Allies, working himself into the game and finishing with 11 disposals, four clearances and a game-high 30 hit-outs. The Knights co-captain was then named as the starting ruck in the Coates Talent League team of the year after averaging 11 disposals, three marks and 23 hit-outs from 13 games.
In the mix/trade watch: The Swans are a big trade watch at this pick on draft night. There’s suggestions they would like to move up the order to acquire gun key defender Connor O’Sullivan, while they could also look at moving down and adding another selection to their arsenal. Should they slide down the order, they could still pick up Green — although he has interest from North Melbourne and Collingwood — while big-bodied GWV Rebels on-baller George Stevens could come into calculations for the first time. But if Kolstyn Tholstrup is still on the table when it’s Sydney’s turn to pick, rivals wouldn’t be surprised if the Swans held and selected the Subiaco star.
PICK 17: WESTERN BULLDOGS — JORDAN CROFT (SAINTS’ FATHER-SON BID MATCHED)
Position: Key forward
Size: 200cm
Clubs: Calder Cannons/Maribyrnong Park
AFL player comparison: Ben King
Foxfooty.com.au Draft Power Rankings: 14
One for Dogs fans to get excited about. An athletic 200cm prospect who covers the ground superbly – he ran the fourth-best 2km time at the combine (6:05) – Croft prides himself on his competitiveness, both in the air at ground level. Despite a quiet end to his Coates Talent League campaign, Croft still finished with 23.17 from 11 games, with 21 of those goals coming across a scintillating seven-game stretch during the middle of the season. While he didn’t quite have the same impact in the national carnival, he was still a standout in Vic Metro’s win over South Australia, booting 3.2 from 10 disposals and three marks. Croft has looked up to Bulldogs forward Aaron Naughton – and he’s now almost certain to be training with Naughton at Whitten Oval later this year after Croft — the son of Matthew Croft, who played 186 games for the Western Bulldogs – officially nominated the Bulldogs under the father-son rule.
In the mix/trade watch: Rival clubs wouldn’t be surprised if Sydney also bid on Croft — on top of Will McCabe and Jake Rogers — in what would be a bidding frenzy at their first pick. Should the Croft slide past the Swans and Saints, surely North Melbourne will force the Bulldogs to pay up? And the Dogs will pay up, for they’re well stocked from a draft points perspective.
PICK 18: ST KILDA — DARCY WILSON
Position: Medium forward/midfielder
Size: 185cm
Clubs: Murray Bushrangers/Wangaratta Rovers
AFL player comparison: Josh Daicos
Foxfooty.com.au Draft Power Rankings: 12
The quiet achiever of this year’s class who starred at every level he played at, the hard-working Wilson lets his footy do the talking. He’s classy yet exciting, zippy yet can run all day – he finished second in the 2km time trial (5:52) at the combine – and daring with the ball in hand yet still efficient. Wilson kicked 4.3 and averaged 16 disposals and four inside 50s for Vic Country in the national carnival. That followed two solid games for the AFL Academy against Port Adelaide’s SANFL side (19 disposals) and Carlton’s VFL team (1.0, 12 disposals, 6 marks). Wilson also kicked 16 goals and averaged 25 disposals and four inside 50s for the Bushrangers from 11 Coates Talent League games.
In the mix/trade watch: Wilson could go much earlier than this, so the Saints will have ample alternatives for their first pick. They’d strongly consider Subiaco forward Koltyn Tholstrup, who the Saints have kept tabs on, while tall midfielder Charlie Edwards, who has ample interest from clubs that pick just after the Saints, would come into the mix too. The Saints have also been linked to Swan Districts rebounding defender Riley Hardeman.
PICK 19: ADELAIDE CROWS — TAYLOR GOAD
Position: Ruck
Size: 206cm
Clubs: South Adelaide/Willunga
AFL player comparison: Max Gawn
Foxfooty.com.au Draft Power Rankings: 32
A big draft night bolter looms. Goad prides himself on staying involved in the game post-ruck contests, even if it’s at ground level. SA coach Tony Bamford told AFL Media Goad has “the most upside of any player in our state”, adding: “He’s got a midfield mindset in a Max Gawn body.” After a solid start to his draft season, Goad upped the ante after the national championships, averaging 15 disposals, 24 hit-outs, five clearances and four inside 50s in South Adelaide’s final three SANFL Under 18s home and away games. He then played an integral role in the team’s premiership, with 13 disposals, three contested marks, five clearances and 17 hit-outs in the grand final triumph. The former basketballer at the combine then showed off his insane athleticism for a player of his height, running a 2.97-second 20m sprint to go with a 74cm standing vertical jump.
In the mix/trade watch: There’s been strong word in recent days the Crows could look to pounce on Goad here, for he has interest from both North Melbourne and Collingwood, who could both look to trade up from their spots. If not Goad, the Crows have been strongly linked to both Charlie Edwards and Harry DeMattia in recent weeks.
PICK 20: NORTH MELBOURNE — CHARLIE EDWARDS
Position: Midfielder/medium defender
Size: 190cm
Clubs: Sandringham Dragons/Sandhurst
AFL player comparison: Will Day
Foxfooty.com.au Draft Power Rankings: 22
A genuine late-season bolter, Edwards’ shift from defence to the midfield this year paid big dividends. He missed out on playing for Vic Metro at the national champs, but exploded in his final seven Coates Talent League games for the Dragons, booting seven goals and averaging 21 disposals and five inside 50s per outing. Edwards’ class, athleticism and ability to burst away from congested stoppages has impressed recruiters, while his 190cm frame also appeals.
In the mix/trade watch: The Kangaroos have done a lot of work on Edwards and would find it tough to overlook him if he slips past Adelaide the pick before. But should one of Will Green or Taylor Goad be on the board, the Roos would be a good chance to pounce, as it’s expected they’ll take at least one tall with one of their three late first-rounders.
PICK 21: GWS GIANTS — HARRY DEMATTIA
Position: Midfielder/medium forward
Size: 185cm
Clubs: Dandenong Stingrays/Edithvale-Aspendale
AFL player comparison: Jack Sinclair
Foxfooty.com.au Draft Power Rankings: 29
Eleven months after running drinks and Kookaburra bats out to Marnus Labuschagne — and copping a sledge from Proteas captain Dean Elgar — during the Boxing Day test, DeMattia is bound for an AFL list. DeMattia has genuine speed, clean hands and versatility, while his pressure game, competitiveness and elite ball use also appeals to AFL clubs. After being appointed Stingrays captain for 2023, DeMattia put all his focus into footy — and that decision has paid off, impressing across all three lines at different levels. He kicked five goals from his first three Coates Talent League game playing as a high half-forward then had 30 touches in his last home and away game against the Devils. And in Vic Country’s final national carnival game, DeMattia played on Nick Watson and clamped him when the game was up for grabs, which suggested to scouts he could be a small defender at AFL level.
In the mix/trade watch: The Giants have long-held interest in DeMattia, but there’s a lot of players linked to them at this pick. It’s where two NGA prospects in Luamon Lual (Western Bulldogs) and Tew Jiath (Hawthorn), as well as exciting Murray Bushrangers forward Phoenix Gothard, enter the fray for the first time, with the Giants doing their work on Lual and Jiath of late. The Giants have also been linked to rebounding defender Riley Hardeman, while they’d also strongly consider Charlie Edwards should he still be up for grabs.
PICK 22: NORTH MELBOURNE — RILEY HARDEMAN
Position: Medium defender
Size: 185cm
Clubs: Swan Districts/Caversham
AFL player comparison: Bailey Dale
Foxfooty.com.au Draft Power Rankings: 20
A hard-running defender and WA’s carnival captain, Hardeman had several standout games throughout his draft year. He racked up 23 disposals, nine marks and eight rebound 50s for WA against SA in the carnival, while he had 26-plus disposals in four of his seven colts games. Scouts have been pleased to see Hardeman’s growth in confidence to come forward and intercept mark this year to complement his strong rebounding traits, which include speed and a booming left-foot kick.
In the mix/trade watch: The Roos will have a good look at Harry DeMattia if he’s on the board at this time. Murray Bushrangers forward Phoenix Gothard could be another option.
PICK 23: NORTH MELBOURNE — WIL DAWSON
Position: Key defender
Size: 200cm
Clubs: Gippsland Power/Leongatha
AFL player comparison: Esava Ratugolea
A 200cm prospect who’s played across all three lines and doesn’t turn 18 until December: Yeah he’s raw, but everything about Dawson screams ‘upside’ at AFL level. After starting as a ruck-forward for Gippsland, Dawson was moved into defence and thrived in his new role. While he didn’t win a lot of the footy, his intercept ability and aerial competitiveness was strikingly impressive. Remarkably, he’s grown 20cm in the past two years — but he’s maintained his cleanliness below his knees. But if Dawson doesn’t go here, there’s a chance he slides into the second or even third round, such is his wide draft range.
In the mix/trade watch: The Roos could go for another key defensive bolter in Zane Zakostelsky — a raw yet athletic talent with enormous upside who produced a 22-disposal display in the WAFL colts grand final that won him best on ground honours then starred at the national draft combine. But there’s a trade watch here. The Roos have said all along they’d be happy to use all five first-round picks if needed. Yet they’ve also been linked to a move up the draft order, specifically eyeing off Sydney’s Pick 12 in a trade where they’d use their two of their three late first-rounders. That could be to get ahead of Adelaide and Sydney to grab a ruck like Will Green or Taylor Goad, or even beat the Saints and Crows for one of Harry DeMattia or, more likely, Charlie Edwards.
PICK 24: GOLD COAST SUNS — WILL GRAHAM (MAGPIES’ ACADEMY BID MATCHED)
Position: Medium defender/midfielder
Size: 186cm
Clubs: Gold Coast Suns Academy/Palm Beach Currumbin
AFL player comparison: Jarrod Berry
Foxfooty.com.au Draft Power Rankings: 35
Jed Walter, Ethan Read and Jake Rogers have been all the rage this year, but Graham is the fourth Suns academy prospect that can’t be forgotten. Graham is quick and powerful, yet also clean and composed with ball in hand. He averaged 16.5 disposals and 5.0 marks while going at 79.5 per cent efficiency by foot for the Allies during the national championships playing primarily as a defender with a few midfield stints. He also had VFL exposure, playing four games for the Suns and averaging 9.7 disposals. Graham then finished second in the 20m sprint (2.915 seconds) and third in both vertical jump tests at the national draft combine.
In the mix/trade watch: Multiple sources this week indicated the Magpies are prepared to bid on Graham at this pick. But the Suns have committed to taking Graham, who’ll be in attendance on the first night of the draft. To ensure they don’t go into draft deficit, the Suns will need to find extra points — and that’s where Brisbane is expected to help them out, with the Lions expected to get their hands on the Suns’ Pick 24 in exchange for a suite of second and third-round picks.
PICK 25: COLLINGWOOD — LANCE COLLARD
Position: Small forward
Size: 179cm
Clubs: Subiaco/North Beach
AFL player comparison: Shai Bolton
Foxfooty.com.au Draft Power Rankings: 17
Some scouts believe he’s WA’s most talented prospect — and he’s in hot demand. Blessed with an enormous leap, electric speed and great goal nous, Collard finished his 2023 campaign on a big high, booting 10.1 across two WAFL colts finals to finish with 32.13 from 11 games for the season. He then starred at the combine with a solid 2km time trial result of 6:32 before recording the fastest agility test of any prospect (8.157 seconds) and finishing fourth in the 20m sprint (2.923 seconds). Just as importantly, clubs were impressed by how he carried himself during the interview process. While Collard was a consistent goalkicker and showed ample tricks inside 50 this year, recruiters believe he has the skills, polish, class and athleticism to play up the field. Collard, who grew up a Fremantle supporter, is tied to the Eagles via their Next Generation Academy – but any hope the Eagles had Collard wouldn’t be picked up in the top 40 are now surely dashed.
In the mix/trade watch: Lots of intrigue at this selection. Rival recruiters believe the Pies have done a lot of late work on Collard, who has clubs prepared to trade up the order to get him. However the Magpies could also go tall at this selection, especially if one of Taylor Goad or Will Green are still on the board. Even Freo NGA ruck prospect Mitch Edwards has been linked to this Magpies pick, which is also the selection where gun tall running defender Arie Schoenmaker and 203cm forward-ruck Archer Reid enter the draft conversation, with the Tasmanian having ample late first-round interest. Harry DeMattia would also be a strong chance if he slips to the back-end of the first round.
PICK 26: ADELAIDE CROWS — ARIE SCHOENMAKER
Position: Wing/key defender
Size: 194cm
Clubs: Tasmania Devils/Launceston
AFL player comparison: James Sicily
Foxfooty.com.au Draft Power Rankings: 21
The Tasmanian has impressed AFL clubs with his rapid on-field growth and dedication to improve off-field this year. He’s the definition of a line-breaker, with the ability to change the course of matches by using his run and carry then thumping the ball forward with his long, raking left boot. He has the size to be a third tall defender, but admits he needs to regain his ability and confidence to intercept before moving into that role at AFL level. Schoenmaker was hit with a 10-game ban at the start of the year for a training camp indiscretion involving alcohol with a group of his teammates. He didn’t play for the Tassie Devils until Round 8 of the Coates League — and he returned with a bang, amassing a game-high 36 disposals, 19 rebound 50s and six marks against the GWV Rebels. The Devils lost the match, but Schoenmaker’s draft redemption journey had truly begun. He was then a late call-up for the Allies and made an immediate splash, booting 2.3 from 20 disposals, 10 marks and four inside 50s against Vic Metro. Clubs were keen to interview him at the national combine – and they were impressed with his willingness to own and learn from his early-year mistake.
In the mix/trade watch: If the Crows haven’t moved up the order earlier in the first round, don’t be surprised if they put this pick on the table. In that scenario, they’d likely trade Pick 20 to a club keen to get into the back-end of the first round, who’d give the Crows multiple picks in the 30s so they can then target needs. Otherwise, Schoenmaker, Harry DeMattia or rebounding Geelong Falcons defender Angus Hastie could be in their sights.
PICK 27: ST KILDA — TEW JIATH
Position: Medium defender
Size: 187cm
Clubs: Gippsland Power/Morwell
AFL player comparison: Nick Vlastuin
Foxfooty.com.au Draft Power Rankings: 31
Didn’t play for Vic Country and didn’t get a national combine invite, but Jiath surged up draft boards during the back-end of Gippsland Power’s Coates Talent League campaign, providing eye-catching dash, dare and intercept ability off half-back. His 29-disposal wildcard round display against the Stingrays was particularly noteworthy. Jiath is the younger brother of Hawks defender Changkuoth Jiath. While ‘CJ’ breaks lines with his run and carry, Jiath is more of a creator and neat distributor off half-back. He’s part of Hawthorn’s Next Generation Academy, meaning the Hawks have rights to match a bid on him if it comes after Pick 40. But Hawthorn appears increasingly likely to miss out on its top NGA prospect.
In the mix/trade watch: If the Magpies don’t get him — and no club trades with Adelaide to move up the order to draft him — Lance Collard would be a chance to be taken at St Kilda’s second first-rounder, as would fellow WA prospect Riley Hardeman, Launceston’s Arie Schoenmaker and Murray Bushrangers’ Phoenix Gothard if they’re still on the board. The Saints have also been linked to AFL Academy duo Mitch Edwards (ruck) and Archie Roberts (half-back/midfielder) at this pick.
PICK 28: CARLTON — ARCHIE ROBERTS
Position: Medium defender
Size: 182cm
Clubs: Sandringham Dragons/Hampton Rovers
AFL player comparison: Jake Lloyd
Foxfooty.com.au Draft Power Rankings: 25
AFL recruiters have remained split over Roberts right throughout the season, but he’s a high metres gained player who backs his kicking. His rebounding, ability to gain territory and aerobic capacity (6:08 2km time trial) is unquestionable, but scouts also have doubts over his kicking efficiency, decision-making and defensive accountability. After starring for the AFL Academy against Carlton in May, Roberts found plenty of the ball during the national carnival for Vic Metro, averaging 21 disposals and six rebound 50s while going at 75 per cent by foot. He then played three crucial finals to help the Dragons to the Talent League premiership, collecting 19, 25 and 16 disposals respectively. Some clubs see him as a possible midfielder at AFL level, despite playing off half-back for the majority of 2023.
In the mix/trade watch: The Blues could spring an opening-night surprise here, with a few left-field names in the mix. Carlton has interest in SA draft slider Ashton Moir — although some clubs believe the Blues would more likely take him in the second round — while speedy half-back/winger Matt Carroll has also been linked to the club. Other names that could be in the Blues’ mix, if they’re still on the board, include Arie Schoenmaker — a Blues supporter — and Phoenix Gothard.
MORE DRAFT INTEL …
As aforementioned, there could be a scrap for Subiaco high-flyer Lance Collard, with several clubs pondering whether to trade up the order for him — despite some doubts over how he’d fare living away of WA.
While Collard has interest from Collingwood and St Kilda with late first-round picks, foxfooty.com.au understands Fremantle (Picks 34, 46, 60, 64) is working hard to move up the order — ideally ahead of West Coast at Pick 23 — with the goal to draft the exciting WA prospect, who’s an Eagles NGA graduate.
Suns quartet hoping to say at Suns | 00:46
However rival clubs believe Richmond is also extremely keen on Collard — and the Tigers have a slightly better hand than the Dockers, holding Picks 29, 41, 65 and 68 at this stage.
The Dockers have also been heavily linked to Werribee star Shaun Mannagh, who’s widely regarded as the best mature-age prospect after a mighty VFL campaign full of eye-catching performances. He won the Norm Goss Medal for the best player in the VFL grand final — despite Werribee’s loss to Gold Coast — after kicking six goals from 28 disposals. From his 21 games in 2023, he’s kicked 40.32 and averaged 25 touches per outing.
As flagged earlier under the Will Graham-Collingwood bid entry, the Gold Coast Suns’ Pick 24 — the second pick of the second round of the draft — is up for grabs, with the Brisbane Lions widely expected to get their hands on that selection during the first night of the draft. The Lions could part with Picks 39, 51, 54 and 67 for Pick 24, which would give the Suns another 284 points to work with on draft night — a figure that could be the difference between them going into draft deficit or not.
Should the Lions move up the order, they’ve been linked to 203cm Gippsland Power forward-ruck Archer Reid, while they could also look at small forwards Phoenix Gothard (Murray Bushrangers) and Koen Sanchez (East Fremantle). But the Lions are reportedly also on the lookout for defenders, with Arie Schoenmaker, Zane Zakotelsky and Wil Dawson possible options.
Sanchez and Bulldogs NGA prospect Luamon Lual are in Richmond’s mix in the second round, although Lual, as well as GWV Rebels midfielder/defender George Stevens, also has fans at Geelong and Essendon.
The Cats appear to be eyeing a defender at their second-round selection, hence the links to Lual, Archie Roberts, Sandringham Dragons’ Ollie Murphy and top Geelong Falcons prospect Angus Hastie.
If neither of them are taken with Carlton’s first-round pick, Glenelg forward Ashton Moir, quick Sandringham Dragons defender Matt Carroll and Dandenong Stingrays speedster Billy Wilson should be in the mix for the Blues’ second-round pick, along with explosive Dandenong Stingrays midfielder Cooper Simpson. Speedy, cool under pressure and clean with ball in-hand, Simpson is a big moments player that steps up when his team needs him most.
Moir this year has also been frequently linked to West Coast — the AFL team he grew up barracking for as he has family based in WA. But the Eagles will also closely look at WA-based talent like Sanchez, Peel Thunder ball magnet Clay Hall and Perth running machine Aiden O’Driscoll.
Oakleigh Chargers on-baller Will Lorenz and GWV Rebels winger Joel Freijah both slid down draft boards this year, but remain a chance to be taken on night one. Tasmania’s Jack Callinan also looms as a night-two prospect, while Heath Ollington and Geordie Payne are the state’s other two best chances.
Collingwood has been linked to top Sydney academy prospect Caiden Cleary, with some suggestions they could bid on him in the first round. But considering the Magpies’ Pick 33 would come in significantly after the Suns match their own academy bids, it’s more likely a Pies-Cleary play would come in the second round. The Swans are tipped to take Indhi Kirk — the son of Swans champion Brett Kirk — as a Category B rookie.
Top GWS Giants academy prospect Harvey Thomas could receive a late national draft bid, while 195cm Hawks father-son gun Calsher Dear might get through to Hawthorn’s last pick on night two.
As for Port Adelaide, which currently holds Pick 73, the club recently met with lively 176cm small forward Lachlan Charleson. The GWV Rebels had some big Coates Talent League games towards the back-end of the season, including against Bendigo where he booted a whopping 8.4 from 22 touches.