The AFL 2024 Mid-Season Rookie Draft is fast approaching, set to take place on May 29. With teams looking to address immediate needs and add depth for the latter part of the season, this draft provides a crucial opportunity for clubs. Here’s a detailed look at the top 10 prospects expected to be selected.
1. Geordie Payne – Utility (Tasmania Devils)
Geordie Payne is a versatile player who can transition between defense and midfield roles. Known for his speed, toughness, and adaptability, Payne is likely to be picked first by North Melbourne, who need an immediate boost in versatility and energy.
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – SEPTEMBER 09: Geordie Payne of the Tassie Devils runs with the ball during the Coates Talent League Boys Quarter Final match between Tasmania Devils and Gippsland Power at Highgate Reserve on September 09, 2023 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Kelly Defina/AFL Photos/via Getty Images )
Follow the Draft live >>
2. Jacob Blight – Defender (Peel Thunder)
Standing at 194 cm, Blight is a commanding defender renowned for his intercept marking and strong defensive skills. His impressive performances in the WAFL have made him a top target for clubs needing to strengthen their backline. A likely Richmond pick, but North might surprise us and take Jacob at pick one.
3. Brynn Teakle – Ruck (East Fremantle)
At 202 cm, Teakle is an athletic ruckman known for his dominance in hit-outs and ability to contribute around the ground. His dual threat in both ruck contests and goal-scoring makes him a valuable pick.
4. Jed Hagan – Midfielder (East Fremantle)
Jed Hagan is a tenacious midfielder with a high work rate and excellent ball-winning ability. His consistent performances in the WAFL highlight his readiness for the AFL level, making him a strong candidate for an early pick.
5. Jackson Callow – Key Forward (Norwood)
Jackson Callow is a powerful key forward who has shown great form in the SANFL. With strong marking ability and a reliable set shot, Callow can provide an immediate impact in the forward line for teams lacking a key target.
6. Ethan Phillips – Defender (Port Melbourne)
Phillips is a tall defender who excels in intercept marking and one-on-one contests. His ability to read the play and provide defensive stability will be highly sought after by clubs needing a solid backline presence.
7. Max Pescud – Forward (Gold Coast Suns Academy)
A dynamic small forward, Pescud has a keen goal sense and exceptional agility. His ability to create scoring opportunities and apply forward pressure makes him an attractive prospect for clubs looking to boost their forward line.
8. Kade Dittmar – Midfielder (East Perth)
Dittmar is a strong-bodied midfielder known for his clearance work and tackling intensity. His consistent performances in the WAFL suggest he is ready to step up to the AFL level.
9. Tom Emmett – Midfielder (Sturt)
Emmett is a versatile midfielder with good endurance and ball-handling skills. His ability to cover the ground and contribute both offensively and defensively makes him a valuable addition to any midfield unit.
10. Zane Barzen – Forward (Murray Bushrangers)
Barzen is an athletic forward with strong marking capabilities and an accurate kick for goal. His performances in the NAB League have showcased his potential to be a key forward option in the AFL, he might be a nice pick up for Collingwood.
Who will your club pick up? Find out on your club board >>
The 2024 AFL Mid-Season Rookie Draft promises to introduce an exciting array of talent into the league. Geordie Payne, Jacob Blight, and Brynn Teakle headline the top prospects, each bringing unique skills that can address specific team needs. As the draft unfolds, these players, among others, are expected to make significant contributions to their new clubs, shaping the second half of the AFL season.
The full 2024 AFL Mid-Season Rookie Draft order:
First round
1 – North Melbourne
2 – Richmond
3 – West Coast
4 – St Kilda
5 – Hawthorn
6 – Brisbane
7 – Adelaide
8 – Western Bulldogs
9 – Carlton
10 – Collingwood
11 – Melbourne
12 – Port Adelaide
13 – Essendon
14 – Sydney
Second round
15 – North Melbourne
16 – Richmond
17 – Brisbane
18 – Adelaide
19 – Collingwood
Third round
20 – Richmond
21 – Brisbane
22 – Adelaide
Fourth round
23 – Brisbane
