List Mgmt. 2024 National Draft - November 20-21
- Thread starter Jen2310
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Yeah Daniher is a freak but an inconsistent one.
McStay still plays traditional fwd style imo good overhead, but you know tall fwdsare meant to.
Imo most 200cm plus guys are cumbersome.
Imo he is too inconsistent with his intent and application at the contest when he's required to go in.
He had a few really good games in this area early to mid season, and then went back to being a spectator there even when hed the only pie at the contest.
sr36
TheBrownDog
I agree. It's agility, and height is usually a decent predictor of it. The very best ones of recent times have had the agility to have second efforts and a ground level game to go with their aerial game: Buddy, Cameron, Riewoldt, Curnow. Daniher has it, but goes from the best in the league to the worst in the league and then back within the space of 5 minutes
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Jen2310
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ESPN Oct 30 rankings - top 30
1. Jagga Smith (September ranking: 1)
Oakleigh Chargers/Vic Metro
MID, 181cm
National Champs: 4 games, 29.3 disposals, 6.8 clearances, 4.8 marks
Talent League: 12 games, 33.8 disposals, 7.9 clearances, 0.6 goals
Jagga did his pick 1 chances no harm with a solid combine weekend, posting a 3.038 second 20m sprint and 6:27 minute 2km time trial. He's the 'can't miss' prospect of the draft, a creative on-baller with the ability to rack up huge numbers through work rate and clean skills. He already looked at home against the bigger bodies, averaging 27 disposals and six clearances for Richmond VFL. Smith's professionalism and leadership stand out, making him a good cultural fit for rebuilding sides.
Best traits similar to: Zak Butters
2. Sid Draper (2)
South Adelaide/South Australia
MID, 182cm
2024 Champs: 4 games, 21.0 disposals, 3.8 clearances, 2.8 marks
SANFL: 6 games, 22.2 disposals, 4.7 clearances, 6.2 tackles
Draper didn't test at the combine with a minor back complaint, but met with a host of clubs on the weekend. His stoppage craft and ability to hurt the opposition in space makes Draper a safe prospect with a huge ceiling. Recruiters rave about his professionalism and he's as likely as any prospect to captain an AFL club. Draper's draft range is locked into the top 10 after impressive performances at SANFL level, proving the Panthers' best midfielder against tough opposition.
Best traits similar to: Chad Warner
3. Levi Ashcroft (3) - Brisbane Father-Son
Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro
MID, 179cm
National Champs: 4 games, 25.5 disposals, 3.2 clearances, 1.0 goals
Talent League: 9 games, 30.8 disposals, 5.2 clearances, 1.3 goals
Levi finished off a remarkable top-age year with his third-straight Talent League premiership. He's a strong midfielder that loves to get forward and hit the scoreboard, operating at a level that would have seen him play a lot of AFL football this year if he was eligible. The younger brother of Will didn't test at the combine after undergoing shoulder surgery post-season, with Brisbane expecting a bid in the top five selections.
Best traits similar to: Caleb Serong
4. Finn O'Sullivan (4)
Oakleigh Chargers/Vic Country
MID, 182cm
National Champs: 2 games, 11.5 disposals, 1.5 marks, 3.5 tackles
Talent League: 4 games, 17.2 disposals, 3.0 clearances, 1.2 goals
No midfielder at the top of the crop quite has the athletic profile of O'Sullivan, which was confirmed at the combine with elite results in agility and both vertical jumping tests. He's a brilliant aerialist for his size and glides across the ground with a bounding gait. Through injury and form slumps he's struggled to attain any consistency, but O'Sullivan remains a pick 1 chance and offers one of the highest upsides in the pool.
Best traits similar to: Isaac Heeney
5. Leo Lombard (5) - Gold Coast Academy
SUNS Academy/Allies
MID/FWD, 178cm
National Champs: 4 games, 26.2 disposals, 4.8 clearances, 1.0 goals
VFL: 8 games, 17.5 disposals, 2.6 clearances, 0.6 goals
Lombard has game-breaking qualities in his power and speed which was confirmed on Sunday after taking out the agility test crown and recording a 2.851 second 20m sprint, good for second overall. The Suns Academy graduate spent most of his time in the VFL after winning a premiership with the side as a 16-year-old last season. He projects to become a forward-half midfielder, capable of the extraordinary but not without the ups and downs that X factor players present. There's no doubt Gold Coast will match a bid wherever it lands on draft night, with the Saints' picks 7 and 8 a distinct possibility.
Best traits similar to: Jordan De Goey
6. Sam Lalor (6)
GWV Rebels/Vic Country
MID/FWD, 187cm
National Champs: 3 games, 11.0 disposals, 5.0 marks, 1.3 goals
Talent League: 4 games, 23.0 disposals, 6.2 clearances, 5.8 marks
Lalor is firmly in the mix for Richmond's pick 1. The powerful midfielder models his game on Dustin Martin and Jordan De Goey, and boasts similar burst and strength with his strong hips and fend off. A serious hamstring injury curtailed the end to his season and he didn't test at the combine. Lalor's brilliant contested marking and damaging disposal has kept him firmly in the first pick frame.
Best traits similar to: Christian Petracca
7. Xavier Lindsay (7)
Gippsland Power/Vic Country
MID, 183cm
National Champs: 3 games, 22.7 disposals, 4.3 clearances, 6.7 marks
Talent League: 12 games, 23.4 disposals, 5.4 clearances, 0.6 goals
A late-season PCL injury meant Lindsay didn't test at the combine but recruiters believe he would've gone well, especially in the 2km with his endurance highlighted all year. The Power captain has a beautiful left boot and loves swinging out of congestion and picking out targets deep afield. He's played at half back and half forward and is likely to begin his career outside the centre square.
Best traits similar to: Josh Kelly
8. Josh Smillie (10)
Eastern Ranges/Vic Metro
MID, 194cm
National Champs: 4 games, 18.8 disposals, 5.8 clearances, 3.5 tackles
Talent League: 12 games, 25.5 disposals, 4.8 clearances, 1.3 goals
Smillie's size, strength, and skill reflects the modern day midfield archetype. He looks at home as an inside midfielder and has the combativeness to thrive in the clinches. But his spread, positional flexibility, and overhead marking have all been concerns throughout the year. Smillie only posted a top-10 test in the standing vertical jump, but his 2km (6:38 minutes) and 20m sprint (3.088 seconds) times were in line for a prospect standing 194cm.
Best traits similar to: Tom Green
9. Tobie Travaglia (8)
Bendigo Pioneers/Vic Country
DEF, 187cm
National Champs: 4 games, 21.8 disposals, 6.2 marks, 8.2 intercepts
Talent League: 12 games, 23.6 disposals, 6.4 tackles, 0.9 goals
There was a buzz around Travaglia on Friday for the 2km, and he burst out of the gates before eventually being reined in by Joel Cochran to finish second with a time of 6:13 minutes. It was a result that proved his high motor dashing off halfback. He ran a disappointing 3.186 second 20m which doesn't match the eye test. Travaglia's competitiveness, dare, and versatility are massive reasons why he's rated so highly and a likely top-15 pick on the first night.
Best traits similar to: Will Day
10. Harvey Langford (9)
Dandenong Stingrays/Vic Country
MID, 190cm
National Champs: 25.5 disposals, 6.2 clearances, 6.2 marks
Talent League: 15 games, 25.9 disposals, 4.7 clearances, 1.3 goals
Langford's season has him in the top five conversation but concerns linger over his athletic profile as a 190cm midfielder. On Friday he produced an impressive 6:24 minutes in the 2km, but his 3.236 second 20m sprint trailed the other top-10 midfielders. Langford's lack of speed and agility won't prevent him becoming an elite AFL midfielder if his clean hands, contested marking, and penetrating kick translate well to the next level as clubs expect.
Best traits similar to: Jordan Dawson
11. Harry Armstrong (11)
Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro
FWD, 195cm
National Champs: 3 games, 9.0 disposals, 5.0 marks, 3.0 goals
Talent League: 10 games, 10.0 disposals, 3.4 marks, 2.8 goals
Armstrong has fans in the top-10 - he's a brilliant contested mark, kicks accurately on his left foot on set shots and has the athletic profile to get up and down the ground when required. It ticks a lot of boxes for an AFL key forward. His agility test at 8.132 was impressive for his size.
Best traits similar to: Aaron Naughton
12. Isaac Kako (15) - Essendon NGA
Calder Cannons/Vic Metro
FWD, 175cm
2024 Champs: 4 games, 14.5 disposals, 1.2 tackles, 2.0 goals
Talent League: 12 games, 18.7 disposals, 3.0 tackles, 1.7 goals
Kako underwent ankle surgery six weeks ago and missed combine testing, which may be a good thing for Essendon who anticipates a close call as to whether the NGA prospect receives a bid before or after their pick 9. The livewire's stocks are boosted by the success of Nick Watson because he boasts a similar game - at 175cm he weaves in and out of traffic and kicks remarkable goals with excellent forward craft. His defensive output is an area to improve but there aren't many more exciting prospects in the pool than Kako.
Best traits similar to: Nick Watson
13. Alix Tauru (23)
Gippsland Power/Vic Country
FWD/DEF, 191cm
National Champs: 3 games, 6.7 disposals, 2.7 marks, 1.0 tackles
Talent League: 12 games, 14.5 disposals, 5.8 marks, 0.6 goals
Tauru is coming with a rush and his combine results were superb to continue a wave of momentum. The Gippsland tall was thrown around the park this year, looking adept as an interceptor for Vic Country but also dominating as a lead-up forward at times. At the combine he ran a solid 6:36 minutes in the 2km then caught the eye with a 3.001 second 20m sprint. But it's his natural leap at the ball and exceptional marking ability that makes him a special prospect and he took out the running vertical jump at 96cm. Tauru is garnering consideration from North Melbourne at pick 2, such is his meteoric rise.
Best traits similar to: Tom Stewart
14. Joe Berry (13)
Murray Bushrangers/Vic Country
FWD, 180cm
National Champs: 4 games, 13.2 disposals, 2.8 tackles, 2.2 goals
Talent League: 14 games, 14.4 disposals, 2.9 tackles, 1.9 goals
Berry didn't test at the combine and had a quiet end to the season with the Bushrangers, but recruiters aren't quick to forget the bags of goals he kicked for club and state. At the national champs he was a game-changer, injecting life into on-ball rotations and executing beautifully going inside 50. He has the speed, defensive intent, skills, and goal nous to become an exceptional forward at the next level.
Best traits similar to: Dylan Moore
15. Bo Allan (17)
Peel Thunder/Western Australia
DEF/MID, 191cm
National Champs: 3 games, 20.0 disposals, 3.7 clearances, 6.0 tackles
WAFL: 11 games, 11.4 disposals, 2.9 marks, 2.9 tackles
Allan did his top-10 draft chances no harm on Sunday with outstanding results across the board. He ran a sub-three second 20m sprint and finished top-five in three other events. It reflects the powerful burst midfielder that Allan has become this year, leading WA in the champs and playing extended football at WAFL level which resulted in a premiership with Peel. The physically imposing on-baller may start his career at halfback and is poised to play a lot of senior football early in his career.
Best traits similar to: Elliot Yeo
16. Luke Trainor (12)
Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro
DEF, 194cm
National Champs: 4 games, 19.8 disposals, 5.8 marks, 4.5 intercepts
Talent League: 5 games, 19.8 disposals, 5.6 marks, 2.2 tackles
An injured hip meant Trainor missed the combine, and he also missed out on the Dragons' Grand Final win due to concussion. It's been a frustrating back half of the year for the interceptor after kicking the winning goal against Vic Country in the national champs. At his best, the smooth-moving tall takes intercept marks at will and kickstarts transition with a lovely right foot.
Best traits similar to: Jordan Ridley
17. Jobe Shanahan (14)
Bendigo Pioneers/Allies
FWD, 194cm
National Champs: 4 games, 12.2 disposals, 5.5 marks, 1.2 goals
Talent League: 11 games, 12.9 disposals, 5.0 marks, 2.1 goals
A powerful marking tall, Shanahan's VFL exploits with Essendon stamped his first-round credentials ahead of a host of key forwards. He has a stocky frame that will continue to fill out with preseasons under the belt but he still managed an impressive 6:35 minutes in the 2km. Shanahan's booming kick can find home from anywhere inside 60 metres.
Best traits similar to: Jacob van Rooyen
18. Murphy Reid (16)
Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro
MID/FWD, 180cm
2024 Champs: 4 games, 24.5 disposals, 3.2 clearances, 1.0 goals
Talent League: 9 games, 25.1 disposals, 4.0 clearances, 1.1 goals
Reid didn't test due to a knee injury suffered in the first half of the CTL Grand Final, but clubs are confident it won't keep him out of action for long. He's a silky distributor with creativity oozing out of every disposal, able to lead teammates into space and kick a lot of goals with smart running patterns. It means he may be most effective forward of the ball at the next level, but that didn't stop him from dominating as a midfielder all year.
Best traits similar to: Gryan Miers
19. Taj Hotton (18)
Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro
FWD/MID, 182cm
Talent League: 3 games, 28.7 disposals, 7.3 marks, 1.7 goals
Hotton was the hard luck story of the year, suffering an ACL tear after three incredible games for Sandringham. He will still garner first-round consideration and showed enough for clubs to be confident in his ability to translate the agility, ball use, and scoreboard impact to AFL level.
Best traits similar to: Harry Sheezel
20. Ollie Hannaford (27)
GWV Rebels/Vic Country
FWD/DEF, 180cm
National Champs: 3 games, 10.7 disposals, 3.0 marks, 3.3 tackles
Talent League: 16 games, 16.2 disposals, 4.1 tackles, 1.2 goals
One of the big bolters is Hannaford, who left his run so late he didn't receive enough club interest to register for the national combine. He still showed out in the state combine with a 2.954 20m sprint. As a forward Hannaford is electric in the air and on the ground, able to kick goals in a variety of ways and play with an infectious energy. He played big finals games including being the Rebels' best in a Grand Final loss to Sandringham.
Best traits similar to: Kai Lohmann
21. Kayle Gerreyn (19)
West Perth/Western Australia
RUCK/FWD, 199cm
National Champs: 4 games, 12.5 disposals, 9.0 hitouts, 1.2 goals
WAFL Colts: 11 games, 21.5 disposals, 6.2 marks, 1.6 goals
Gerreyn's unique profile was on show at the combine. He trailed other big men in the 2km and didn't produce great numbers in the jumping or sprint tests, but then blitzed the agility test with a top-six time. It matches the tape - Gerreyn has a top-heavy frame and is light on his feet in the contest, able to shift out of trouble to use his brilliant skills. The WA tall has more risk than others around this mark, but his ability to use the ball well and kick goals in a variety of ways is exciting.
Best traits similar to: Riley Thilthorpe
22. Jack Whitlock (20)
Murray Bushrangers/Vic Country
FWD, 200cm
National Champs: 4 games, 14.8 disposals, 5.0 marks, 1.0 goals
Talent League: 12 games, 16.4 disposals, 4.8 marks, 2.1 goals
Whitlock has a twin brother, Matt, who's also around this mark, and the combine confirmed his solid athletic profile with a 6:39 minute 2km and 3.155 second 20m sprint. He looked best with extended stints in the ruck because his clean hands and running ability saw him collect a lot of the ball, but he also kicked bags of goals up forward where he's likely to play the majority of his career. Whitlock needs time in the gym and patience from the club that drafts him, but there's no reason why he can't make a big impact in time.
Best traits similar to: Ben King
23. Alex Dodson (21)
Sturt/South Australia
RUC, 203cm
National Champs: 3 games, 17.3 disposals, 19.7 hitouts, 3.7 clearances
SANFL U18s: 9 games, 20.8 disposals, 6.0 marks, 4.6 clearances
Dodson racks up the ball for a ruckman and offers huge upside as a tall that can win clearances and generate a tonne of scores out of the midfield. Choosing football over a professional basketball career, Dodson is the premier ruck in the pool and has suitors early in the second round.
Best traits similar to: Tim English
24. Sam Marshall (29) - Brisbane Academy
Sandringham Dragons/Allies
MID, 185cm
National Champs: 4 games, 27.0 disposals, 4.0 clearances, 3.8 tackles
Talent League: 8 games, 23.4 disposals, 6.1 marks, 2.7 clearances
Marshall won best on ground honours in the CTL Grand Final and looks bound for Brisbane. The hard-running midfielder finds space with elite work rate, and executes skills well when given time. He projects to start his career on a flank or wing like Jaspa Fletcher has over the past two seasons.
Best traits similar to: Adam Cerra
25. Cooper Hynes (24)
Dandenong Stingrays/Vic Country
FWD/MID, 190cm
National Champs: 4 games, 16.8 disposals, 4.8 marks, 1.0 goals
Talent League: 15 games, 23.7 disposals, 4.7 clearances, 1.5 goals
It was a disappointment that Hynes couldn't test at the combine because his blend of power and burst would have made for interesting results. He hits the contest with ferocity and often overwhelmed opposition with his strength and speed this year. Hynes doesn't offer the same skill some other midfielders might towards the top of the pool, but projects well to AFL level as an impact half forward with his frenzied pressure and scoreboard impact.
Best traits similar to: Sam Powell-Pepper
26. Hamish Davis (25)
Claremont/Western Australia
FWD/MID, 190cm
National Champs: 4 games, 14.5 disposals, 4.0 marks, 1.8 goals
WAFL: 7 games, 14.3 disposals, 2.7 marks, 1.0 goals
Davis ran an elite 6:18 minutes in the 2km which reflected his game this year. He went from a 40-disposal Colts game as a midfielder to kicking four goals in a WAFL final, and his half forward play against men was ultra-impressive. Davis has the ability to get up and down the ground all game and hit the scoreboard consistently.
Best traits similar to: Will Hayward
27. Jesse Dattoli (26)
Northern Knights/Vic Metro
MID/FWD, 179cm
National Champs: 4 games, 15.2 disposals, 7.2 marks, 0.8 goals
Talent League: 7 games, 23.1 disposals, 3.9 clearances, 1.7 goals
Dattoli didn't test at the combine but the finish to his season was strong, averaging a contested mark per game and kicking goals in a variety of ways. He's a small forward who can impact through the middle, but will need to become a better defensive factor in the AFL.
Best traits similar to: Josh Rachele
28. Jonty Faull (22)
GWV Rebels/Vic Country
FWD, 195cm
National Champs: 3 games, 8.3 disposals, 3.3 marks, 1.7 goals
Talent League: 10 games, 13.3 disposals, 4.4 marks, 2.7 goals
Faull is a no-nonsense key forward that presents at the ball hard and always creates a contest down the line. Faull began the season as the top key forward option before injury hampered his start, but he finished 2024 on a high with a few bags of goals. He tested in the middle of the pack of key forwards.
Best traits similar to: Brody Mihocek
29. James Barrat (30)
Bendigo Pioneers/Vic Country
DEF/FWD, 193cm
National Champs: 3 games, 9.3 disposals, 5.0 marks, 0.7 goals
Talent League: 13 games, 16.5 disposals, 7.2 marks, 1.7 goals
Barrat is physically developed and has played in all three areas of the ground this year, but caught the eye with an impressive 3.031 20m sprint. He will need to play above his size at the next level, and it most likely happens as a key defender, but there are many examples of players with his game making it in the AFL.
Best traits similar to: Josh Battle
30. Christian Moraes (28)
Eastern Ranges, Vic Metro
MID/FWD, 183cm
National Champs: 4 games, 20.8 disposals, 5.8 marks, 0.8 goals
Talent League: 12 games, 23.8 disposals, 4.1 clearances, 1.5 goals
Moraes has had a tough finish to the season, forced out of the midfield in the national champs but still finding ways to impact by collecting a lot of the ball with a high work rate. He uses it creatively when given space but can often rush his disposal. Moraes' ability to hit the scoreboard is valuable.
Best traits similar to: Elijah Hollands
www.espn.com.au
1. Jagga Smith (September ranking: 1)
Oakleigh Chargers/Vic Metro
MID, 181cm
National Champs: 4 games, 29.3 disposals, 6.8 clearances, 4.8 marks
Talent League: 12 games, 33.8 disposals, 7.9 clearances, 0.6 goals
Jagga did his pick 1 chances no harm with a solid combine weekend, posting a 3.038 second 20m sprint and 6:27 minute 2km time trial. He's the 'can't miss' prospect of the draft, a creative on-baller with the ability to rack up huge numbers through work rate and clean skills. He already looked at home against the bigger bodies, averaging 27 disposals and six clearances for Richmond VFL. Smith's professionalism and leadership stand out, making him a good cultural fit for rebuilding sides.
Best traits similar to: Zak Butters
2. Sid Draper (2)
South Adelaide/South Australia
MID, 182cm
2024 Champs: 4 games, 21.0 disposals, 3.8 clearances, 2.8 marks
SANFL: 6 games, 22.2 disposals, 4.7 clearances, 6.2 tackles
Draper didn't test at the combine with a minor back complaint, but met with a host of clubs on the weekend. His stoppage craft and ability to hurt the opposition in space makes Draper a safe prospect with a huge ceiling. Recruiters rave about his professionalism and he's as likely as any prospect to captain an AFL club. Draper's draft range is locked into the top 10 after impressive performances at SANFL level, proving the Panthers' best midfielder against tough opposition.
Best traits similar to: Chad Warner
3. Levi Ashcroft (3) - Brisbane Father-Son
Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro
MID, 179cm
National Champs: 4 games, 25.5 disposals, 3.2 clearances, 1.0 goals
Talent League: 9 games, 30.8 disposals, 5.2 clearances, 1.3 goals
Levi finished off a remarkable top-age year with his third-straight Talent League premiership. He's a strong midfielder that loves to get forward and hit the scoreboard, operating at a level that would have seen him play a lot of AFL football this year if he was eligible. The younger brother of Will didn't test at the combine after undergoing shoulder surgery post-season, with Brisbane expecting a bid in the top five selections.
Best traits similar to: Caleb Serong
4. Finn O'Sullivan (4)
Oakleigh Chargers/Vic Country
MID, 182cm
National Champs: 2 games, 11.5 disposals, 1.5 marks, 3.5 tackles
Talent League: 4 games, 17.2 disposals, 3.0 clearances, 1.2 goals
No midfielder at the top of the crop quite has the athletic profile of O'Sullivan, which was confirmed at the combine with elite results in agility and both vertical jumping tests. He's a brilliant aerialist for his size and glides across the ground with a bounding gait. Through injury and form slumps he's struggled to attain any consistency, but O'Sullivan remains a pick 1 chance and offers one of the highest upsides in the pool.
Best traits similar to: Isaac Heeney
5. Leo Lombard (5) - Gold Coast Academy
SUNS Academy/Allies
MID/FWD, 178cm
National Champs: 4 games, 26.2 disposals, 4.8 clearances, 1.0 goals
VFL: 8 games, 17.5 disposals, 2.6 clearances, 0.6 goals
Lombard has game-breaking qualities in his power and speed which was confirmed on Sunday after taking out the agility test crown and recording a 2.851 second 20m sprint, good for second overall. The Suns Academy graduate spent most of his time in the VFL after winning a premiership with the side as a 16-year-old last season. He projects to become a forward-half midfielder, capable of the extraordinary but not without the ups and downs that X factor players present. There's no doubt Gold Coast will match a bid wherever it lands on draft night, with the Saints' picks 7 and 8 a distinct possibility.
Best traits similar to: Jordan De Goey
6. Sam Lalor (6)
GWV Rebels/Vic Country
MID/FWD, 187cm
National Champs: 3 games, 11.0 disposals, 5.0 marks, 1.3 goals
Talent League: 4 games, 23.0 disposals, 6.2 clearances, 5.8 marks
Lalor is firmly in the mix for Richmond's pick 1. The powerful midfielder models his game on Dustin Martin and Jordan De Goey, and boasts similar burst and strength with his strong hips and fend off. A serious hamstring injury curtailed the end to his season and he didn't test at the combine. Lalor's brilliant contested marking and damaging disposal has kept him firmly in the first pick frame.
Best traits similar to: Christian Petracca
7. Xavier Lindsay (7)
Gippsland Power/Vic Country
MID, 183cm
National Champs: 3 games, 22.7 disposals, 4.3 clearances, 6.7 marks
Talent League: 12 games, 23.4 disposals, 5.4 clearances, 0.6 goals
A late-season PCL injury meant Lindsay didn't test at the combine but recruiters believe he would've gone well, especially in the 2km with his endurance highlighted all year. The Power captain has a beautiful left boot and loves swinging out of congestion and picking out targets deep afield. He's played at half back and half forward and is likely to begin his career outside the centre square.
Best traits similar to: Josh Kelly
8. Josh Smillie (10)
Eastern Ranges/Vic Metro
MID, 194cm
National Champs: 4 games, 18.8 disposals, 5.8 clearances, 3.5 tackles
Talent League: 12 games, 25.5 disposals, 4.8 clearances, 1.3 goals
Smillie's size, strength, and skill reflects the modern day midfield archetype. He looks at home as an inside midfielder and has the combativeness to thrive in the clinches. But his spread, positional flexibility, and overhead marking have all been concerns throughout the year. Smillie only posted a top-10 test in the standing vertical jump, but his 2km (6:38 minutes) and 20m sprint (3.088 seconds) times were in line for a prospect standing 194cm.
Best traits similar to: Tom Green
9. Tobie Travaglia (8)
Bendigo Pioneers/Vic Country
DEF, 187cm
National Champs: 4 games, 21.8 disposals, 6.2 marks, 8.2 intercepts
Talent League: 12 games, 23.6 disposals, 6.4 tackles, 0.9 goals
There was a buzz around Travaglia on Friday for the 2km, and he burst out of the gates before eventually being reined in by Joel Cochran to finish second with a time of 6:13 minutes. It was a result that proved his high motor dashing off halfback. He ran a disappointing 3.186 second 20m which doesn't match the eye test. Travaglia's competitiveness, dare, and versatility are massive reasons why he's rated so highly and a likely top-15 pick on the first night.
Best traits similar to: Will Day
10. Harvey Langford (9)
Dandenong Stingrays/Vic Country
MID, 190cm
National Champs: 25.5 disposals, 6.2 clearances, 6.2 marks
Talent League: 15 games, 25.9 disposals, 4.7 clearances, 1.3 goals
Langford's season has him in the top five conversation but concerns linger over his athletic profile as a 190cm midfielder. On Friday he produced an impressive 6:24 minutes in the 2km, but his 3.236 second 20m sprint trailed the other top-10 midfielders. Langford's lack of speed and agility won't prevent him becoming an elite AFL midfielder if his clean hands, contested marking, and penetrating kick translate well to the next level as clubs expect.
Best traits similar to: Jordan Dawson
11. Harry Armstrong (11)
Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro
FWD, 195cm
National Champs: 3 games, 9.0 disposals, 5.0 marks, 3.0 goals
Talent League: 10 games, 10.0 disposals, 3.4 marks, 2.8 goals
Armstrong has fans in the top-10 - he's a brilliant contested mark, kicks accurately on his left foot on set shots and has the athletic profile to get up and down the ground when required. It ticks a lot of boxes for an AFL key forward. His agility test at 8.132 was impressive for his size.
Best traits similar to: Aaron Naughton
12. Isaac Kako (15) - Essendon NGA
Calder Cannons/Vic Metro
FWD, 175cm
2024 Champs: 4 games, 14.5 disposals, 1.2 tackles, 2.0 goals
Talent League: 12 games, 18.7 disposals, 3.0 tackles, 1.7 goals
Kako underwent ankle surgery six weeks ago and missed combine testing, which may be a good thing for Essendon who anticipates a close call as to whether the NGA prospect receives a bid before or after their pick 9. The livewire's stocks are boosted by the success of Nick Watson because he boasts a similar game - at 175cm he weaves in and out of traffic and kicks remarkable goals with excellent forward craft. His defensive output is an area to improve but there aren't many more exciting prospects in the pool than Kako.
Best traits similar to: Nick Watson
13. Alix Tauru (23)
Gippsland Power/Vic Country
FWD/DEF, 191cm
National Champs: 3 games, 6.7 disposals, 2.7 marks, 1.0 tackles
Talent League: 12 games, 14.5 disposals, 5.8 marks, 0.6 goals
Tauru is coming with a rush and his combine results were superb to continue a wave of momentum. The Gippsland tall was thrown around the park this year, looking adept as an interceptor for Vic Country but also dominating as a lead-up forward at times. At the combine he ran a solid 6:36 minutes in the 2km then caught the eye with a 3.001 second 20m sprint. But it's his natural leap at the ball and exceptional marking ability that makes him a special prospect and he took out the running vertical jump at 96cm. Tauru is garnering consideration from North Melbourne at pick 2, such is his meteoric rise.
Best traits similar to: Tom Stewart
14. Joe Berry (13)
Murray Bushrangers/Vic Country
FWD, 180cm
National Champs: 4 games, 13.2 disposals, 2.8 tackles, 2.2 goals
Talent League: 14 games, 14.4 disposals, 2.9 tackles, 1.9 goals
Berry didn't test at the combine and had a quiet end to the season with the Bushrangers, but recruiters aren't quick to forget the bags of goals he kicked for club and state. At the national champs he was a game-changer, injecting life into on-ball rotations and executing beautifully going inside 50. He has the speed, defensive intent, skills, and goal nous to become an exceptional forward at the next level.
Best traits similar to: Dylan Moore
15. Bo Allan (17)
Peel Thunder/Western Australia
DEF/MID, 191cm
National Champs: 3 games, 20.0 disposals, 3.7 clearances, 6.0 tackles
WAFL: 11 games, 11.4 disposals, 2.9 marks, 2.9 tackles
Allan did his top-10 draft chances no harm on Sunday with outstanding results across the board. He ran a sub-three second 20m sprint and finished top-five in three other events. It reflects the powerful burst midfielder that Allan has become this year, leading WA in the champs and playing extended football at WAFL level which resulted in a premiership with Peel. The physically imposing on-baller may start his career at halfback and is poised to play a lot of senior football early in his career.
Best traits similar to: Elliot Yeo
16. Luke Trainor (12)
Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro
DEF, 194cm
National Champs: 4 games, 19.8 disposals, 5.8 marks, 4.5 intercepts
Talent League: 5 games, 19.8 disposals, 5.6 marks, 2.2 tackles
An injured hip meant Trainor missed the combine, and he also missed out on the Dragons' Grand Final win due to concussion. It's been a frustrating back half of the year for the interceptor after kicking the winning goal against Vic Country in the national champs. At his best, the smooth-moving tall takes intercept marks at will and kickstarts transition with a lovely right foot.
Best traits similar to: Jordan Ridley
17. Jobe Shanahan (14)
Bendigo Pioneers/Allies
FWD, 194cm
National Champs: 4 games, 12.2 disposals, 5.5 marks, 1.2 goals
Talent League: 11 games, 12.9 disposals, 5.0 marks, 2.1 goals
A powerful marking tall, Shanahan's VFL exploits with Essendon stamped his first-round credentials ahead of a host of key forwards. He has a stocky frame that will continue to fill out with preseasons under the belt but he still managed an impressive 6:35 minutes in the 2km. Shanahan's booming kick can find home from anywhere inside 60 metres.
Best traits similar to: Jacob van Rooyen
18. Murphy Reid (16)
Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro
MID/FWD, 180cm
2024 Champs: 4 games, 24.5 disposals, 3.2 clearances, 1.0 goals
Talent League: 9 games, 25.1 disposals, 4.0 clearances, 1.1 goals
Reid didn't test due to a knee injury suffered in the first half of the CTL Grand Final, but clubs are confident it won't keep him out of action for long. He's a silky distributor with creativity oozing out of every disposal, able to lead teammates into space and kick a lot of goals with smart running patterns. It means he may be most effective forward of the ball at the next level, but that didn't stop him from dominating as a midfielder all year.
Best traits similar to: Gryan Miers
19. Taj Hotton (18)
Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro
FWD/MID, 182cm
Talent League: 3 games, 28.7 disposals, 7.3 marks, 1.7 goals
Hotton was the hard luck story of the year, suffering an ACL tear after three incredible games for Sandringham. He will still garner first-round consideration and showed enough for clubs to be confident in his ability to translate the agility, ball use, and scoreboard impact to AFL level.
Best traits similar to: Harry Sheezel
20. Ollie Hannaford (27)
GWV Rebels/Vic Country
FWD/DEF, 180cm
National Champs: 3 games, 10.7 disposals, 3.0 marks, 3.3 tackles
Talent League: 16 games, 16.2 disposals, 4.1 tackles, 1.2 goals
One of the big bolters is Hannaford, who left his run so late he didn't receive enough club interest to register for the national combine. He still showed out in the state combine with a 2.954 20m sprint. As a forward Hannaford is electric in the air and on the ground, able to kick goals in a variety of ways and play with an infectious energy. He played big finals games including being the Rebels' best in a Grand Final loss to Sandringham.
Best traits similar to: Kai Lohmann
21. Kayle Gerreyn (19)
West Perth/Western Australia
RUCK/FWD, 199cm
National Champs: 4 games, 12.5 disposals, 9.0 hitouts, 1.2 goals
WAFL Colts: 11 games, 21.5 disposals, 6.2 marks, 1.6 goals
Gerreyn's unique profile was on show at the combine. He trailed other big men in the 2km and didn't produce great numbers in the jumping or sprint tests, but then blitzed the agility test with a top-six time. It matches the tape - Gerreyn has a top-heavy frame and is light on his feet in the contest, able to shift out of trouble to use his brilliant skills. The WA tall has more risk than others around this mark, but his ability to use the ball well and kick goals in a variety of ways is exciting.
Best traits similar to: Riley Thilthorpe
22. Jack Whitlock (20)
Murray Bushrangers/Vic Country
FWD, 200cm
National Champs: 4 games, 14.8 disposals, 5.0 marks, 1.0 goals
Talent League: 12 games, 16.4 disposals, 4.8 marks, 2.1 goals
Whitlock has a twin brother, Matt, who's also around this mark, and the combine confirmed his solid athletic profile with a 6:39 minute 2km and 3.155 second 20m sprint. He looked best with extended stints in the ruck because his clean hands and running ability saw him collect a lot of the ball, but he also kicked bags of goals up forward where he's likely to play the majority of his career. Whitlock needs time in the gym and patience from the club that drafts him, but there's no reason why he can't make a big impact in time.
Best traits similar to: Ben King
23. Alex Dodson (21)
Sturt/South Australia
RUC, 203cm
National Champs: 3 games, 17.3 disposals, 19.7 hitouts, 3.7 clearances
SANFL U18s: 9 games, 20.8 disposals, 6.0 marks, 4.6 clearances
Dodson racks up the ball for a ruckman and offers huge upside as a tall that can win clearances and generate a tonne of scores out of the midfield. Choosing football over a professional basketball career, Dodson is the premier ruck in the pool and has suitors early in the second round.
Best traits similar to: Tim English
24. Sam Marshall (29) - Brisbane Academy
Sandringham Dragons/Allies
MID, 185cm
National Champs: 4 games, 27.0 disposals, 4.0 clearances, 3.8 tackles
Talent League: 8 games, 23.4 disposals, 6.1 marks, 2.7 clearances
Marshall won best on ground honours in the CTL Grand Final and looks bound for Brisbane. The hard-running midfielder finds space with elite work rate, and executes skills well when given time. He projects to start his career on a flank or wing like Jaspa Fletcher has over the past two seasons.
Best traits similar to: Adam Cerra
25. Cooper Hynes (24)
Dandenong Stingrays/Vic Country
FWD/MID, 190cm
National Champs: 4 games, 16.8 disposals, 4.8 marks, 1.0 goals
Talent League: 15 games, 23.7 disposals, 4.7 clearances, 1.5 goals
It was a disappointment that Hynes couldn't test at the combine because his blend of power and burst would have made for interesting results. He hits the contest with ferocity and often overwhelmed opposition with his strength and speed this year. Hynes doesn't offer the same skill some other midfielders might towards the top of the pool, but projects well to AFL level as an impact half forward with his frenzied pressure and scoreboard impact.
Best traits similar to: Sam Powell-Pepper
26. Hamish Davis (25)
Claremont/Western Australia
FWD/MID, 190cm
National Champs: 4 games, 14.5 disposals, 4.0 marks, 1.8 goals
WAFL: 7 games, 14.3 disposals, 2.7 marks, 1.0 goals
Davis ran an elite 6:18 minutes in the 2km which reflected his game this year. He went from a 40-disposal Colts game as a midfielder to kicking four goals in a WAFL final, and his half forward play against men was ultra-impressive. Davis has the ability to get up and down the ground all game and hit the scoreboard consistently.
Best traits similar to: Will Hayward
27. Jesse Dattoli (26)
Northern Knights/Vic Metro
MID/FWD, 179cm
National Champs: 4 games, 15.2 disposals, 7.2 marks, 0.8 goals
Talent League: 7 games, 23.1 disposals, 3.9 clearances, 1.7 goals
Dattoli didn't test at the combine but the finish to his season was strong, averaging a contested mark per game and kicking goals in a variety of ways. He's a small forward who can impact through the middle, but will need to become a better defensive factor in the AFL.
Best traits similar to: Josh Rachele
28. Jonty Faull (22)
GWV Rebels/Vic Country
FWD, 195cm
National Champs: 3 games, 8.3 disposals, 3.3 marks, 1.7 goals
Talent League: 10 games, 13.3 disposals, 4.4 marks, 2.7 goals
Faull is a no-nonsense key forward that presents at the ball hard and always creates a contest down the line. Faull began the season as the top key forward option before injury hampered his start, but he finished 2024 on a high with a few bags of goals. He tested in the middle of the pack of key forwards.
Best traits similar to: Brody Mihocek
29. James Barrat (30)
Bendigo Pioneers/Vic Country
DEF/FWD, 193cm
National Champs: 3 games, 9.3 disposals, 5.0 marks, 0.7 goals
Talent League: 13 games, 16.5 disposals, 7.2 marks, 1.7 goals
Barrat is physically developed and has played in all three areas of the ground this year, but caught the eye with an impressive 3.031 20m sprint. He will need to play above his size at the next level, and it most likely happens as a key defender, but there are many examples of players with his game making it in the AFL.
Best traits similar to: Josh Battle
30. Christian Moraes (28)
Eastern Ranges, Vic Metro
MID/FWD, 183cm
National Champs: 4 games, 20.8 disposals, 5.8 marks, 0.8 goals
Talent League: 12 games, 23.8 disposals, 4.1 clearances, 1.5 goals
Moraes has had a tough finish to the season, forced out of the midfield in the national champs but still finding ways to impact by collecting a lot of the ball with a high work rate. He uses it creatively when given space but can often rush his disposal. Moraes' ability to hit the scoreboard is valuable.
Best traits similar to: Elijah Hollands
AFL Draft: Bolters emerge as combine takes centre stage
One of the most important weekends on the junior footy calendar has been run and won, with standout performances littered across the combine making ESPN's draft board for October a little clearer.
manicpie
Brownlow Medallist
- Jul 19, 2019
- 18,554
- 31,979
- AFL Club
- Collingwood
They're a bit slow, I had Smith 1 and Lombard 5, weeks ago.ESPN Oct 30 rankings - top 30
1. Jagga Smith (September ranking: 1)
Oakleigh Chargers/Vic Metro
MID, 181cm
National Champs: 4 games, 29.3 disposals, 6.8 clearances, 4.8 marks
Talent League: 12 games, 33.8 disposals, 7.9 clearances, 0.6 goals
Jagga did his pick 1 chances no harm with a solid combine weekend, posting a 3.038 second 20m sprint and 6:27 minute 2km time trial. He's the 'can't miss' prospect of the draft, a creative on-baller with the ability to rack up huge numbers through work rate and clean skills. He already looked at home against the bigger bodies, averaging 27 disposals and six clearances for Richmond VFL. Smith's professionalism and leadership stand out, making him a good cultural fit for rebuilding sides.
Best traits similar to: Zak Butters
2. Sid Draper (2)
South Adelaide/South Australia
MID, 182cm
2024 Champs: 4 games, 21.0 disposals, 3.8 clearances, 2.8 marks
SANFL: 6 games, 22.2 disposals, 4.7 clearances, 6.2 tackles
Draper didn't test at the combine with a minor back complaint, but met with a host of clubs on the weekend. His stoppage craft and ability to hurt the opposition in space makes Draper a safe prospect with a huge ceiling. Recruiters rave about his professionalism and he's as likely as any prospect to captain an AFL club. Draper's draft range is locked into the top 10 after impressive performances at SANFL level, proving the Panthers' best midfielder against tough opposition.
Best traits similar to: Chad Warner
3. Levi Ashcroft (3) - Brisbane Father-Son
Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro
MID, 179cm
National Champs: 4 games, 25.5 disposals, 3.2 clearances, 1.0 goals
Talent League: 9 games, 30.8 disposals, 5.2 clearances, 1.3 goals
Levi finished off a remarkable top-age year with his third-straight Talent League premiership. He's a strong midfielder that loves to get forward and hit the scoreboard, operating at a level that would have seen him play a lot of AFL football this year if he was eligible. The younger brother of Will didn't test at the combine after undergoing shoulder surgery post-season, with Brisbane expecting a bid in the top five selections.
Best traits similar to: Caleb Serong
4. Finn O'Sullivan (4)
Oakleigh Chargers/Vic Country
MID, 182cm
National Champs: 2 games, 11.5 disposals, 1.5 marks, 3.5 tackles
Talent League: 4 games, 17.2 disposals, 3.0 clearances, 1.2 goals
No midfielder at the top of the crop quite has the athletic profile of O'Sullivan, which was confirmed at the combine with elite results in agility and both vertical jumping tests. He's a brilliant aerialist for his size and glides across the ground with a bounding gait. Through injury and form slumps he's struggled to attain any consistency, but O'Sullivan remains a pick 1 chance and offers one of the highest upsides in the pool.
Best traits similar to: Isaac Heeney
5. Leo Lombard (5) - Gold Coast Academy
SUNS Academy/Allies
MID/FWD, 178cm
National Champs: 4 games, 26.2 disposals, 4.8 clearances, 1.0 goals
VFL: 8 games, 17.5 disposals, 2.6 clearances, 0.6 goals
Lombard has game-breaking qualities in his power and speed which was confirmed on Sunday after taking out the agility test crown and recording a 2.851 second 20m sprint, good for second overall. The Suns Academy graduate spent most of his time in the VFL after winning a premiership with the side as a 16-year-old last season. He projects to become a forward-half midfielder, capable of the extraordinary but not without the ups and downs that X factor players present. There's no doubt Gold Coast will match a bid wherever it lands on draft night, with the Saints' picks 7 and 8 a distinct possibility.
Best traits similar to: Jordan De Goey
6. Sam Lalor (6)
GWV Rebels/Vic Country
MID/FWD, 187cm
National Champs: 3 games, 11.0 disposals, 5.0 marks, 1.3 goals
Talent League: 4 games, 23.0 disposals, 6.2 clearances, 5.8 marks
Lalor is firmly in the mix for Richmond's pick 1. The powerful midfielder models his game on Dustin Martin and Jordan De Goey, and boasts similar burst and strength with his strong hips and fend off. A serious hamstring injury curtailed the end to his season and he didn't test at the combine. Lalor's brilliant contested marking and damaging disposal has kept him firmly in the first pick frame.
Best traits similar to: Christian Petracca
7. Xavier Lindsay (7)
Gippsland Power/Vic Country
MID, 183cm
National Champs: 3 games, 22.7 disposals, 4.3 clearances, 6.7 marks
Talent League: 12 games, 23.4 disposals, 5.4 clearances, 0.6 goals
A late-season PCL injury meant Lindsay didn't test at the combine but recruiters believe he would've gone well, especially in the 2km with his endurance highlighted all year. The Power captain has a beautiful left boot and loves swinging out of congestion and picking out targets deep afield. He's played at half back and half forward and is likely to begin his career outside the centre square.
Best traits similar to: Josh Kelly
8. Josh Smillie (10)
Eastern Ranges/Vic Metro
MID, 194cm
National Champs: 4 games, 18.8 disposals, 5.8 clearances, 3.5 tackles
Talent League: 12 games, 25.5 disposals, 4.8 clearances, 1.3 goals
Smillie's size, strength, and skill reflects the modern day midfield archetype. He looks at home as an inside midfielder and has the combativeness to thrive in the clinches. But his spread, positional flexibility, and overhead marking have all been concerns throughout the year. Smillie only posted a top-10 test in the standing vertical jump, but his 2km (6:38 minutes) and 20m sprint (3.088 seconds) times were in line for a prospect standing 194cm.
Best traits similar to: Tom Green
9. Tobie Travaglia (8)
Bendigo Pioneers/Vic Country
DEF, 187cm
National Champs: 4 games, 21.8 disposals, 6.2 marks, 8.2 intercepts
Talent League: 12 games, 23.6 disposals, 6.4 tackles, 0.9 goals
There was a buzz around Travaglia on Friday for the 2km, and he burst out of the gates before eventually being reined in by Joel Cochran to finish second with a time of 6:13 minutes. It was a result that proved his high motor dashing off halfback. He ran a disappointing 3.186 second 20m which doesn't match the eye test. Travaglia's competitiveness, dare, and versatility are massive reasons why he's rated so highly and a likely top-15 pick on the first night.
Best traits similar to: Will Day
10. Harvey Langford (9)
Dandenong Stingrays/Vic Country
MID, 190cm
National Champs: 25.5 disposals, 6.2 clearances, 6.2 marks
Talent League: 15 games, 25.9 disposals, 4.7 clearances, 1.3 goals
Langford's season has him in the top five conversation but concerns linger over his athletic profile as a 190cm midfielder. On Friday he produced an impressive 6:24 minutes in the 2km, but his 3.236 second 20m sprint trailed the other top-10 midfielders. Langford's lack of speed and agility won't prevent him becoming an elite AFL midfielder if his clean hands, contested marking, and penetrating kick translate well to the next level as clubs expect.
Best traits similar to: Jordan Dawson
11. Harry Armstrong (11)
Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro
FWD, 195cm
National Champs: 3 games, 9.0 disposals, 5.0 marks, 3.0 goals
Talent League: 10 games, 10.0 disposals, 3.4 marks, 2.8 goals
Armstrong has fans in the top-10 - he's a brilliant contested mark, kicks accurately on his left foot on set shots and has the athletic profile to get up and down the ground when required. It ticks a lot of boxes for an AFL key forward. His agility test at 8.132 was impressive for his size.
Best traits similar to: Aaron Naughton
12. Isaac Kako (15) - Essendon NGA
Calder Cannons/Vic Metro
FWD, 175cm
2024 Champs: 4 games, 14.5 disposals, 1.2 tackles, 2.0 goals
Talent League: 12 games, 18.7 disposals, 3.0 tackles, 1.7 goals
Kako underwent ankle surgery six weeks ago and missed combine testing, which may be a good thing for Essendon who anticipates a close call as to whether the NGA prospect receives a bid before or after their pick 9. The livewire's stocks are boosted by the success of Nick Watson because he boasts a similar game - at 175cm he weaves in and out of traffic and kicks remarkable goals with excellent forward craft. His defensive output is an area to improve but there aren't many more exciting prospects in the pool than Kako.
Best traits similar to: Nick Watson
13. Alix Tauru (23)
Gippsland Power/Vic Country
FWD/DEF, 191cm
National Champs: 3 games, 6.7 disposals, 2.7 marks, 1.0 tackles
Talent League: 12 games, 14.5 disposals, 5.8 marks, 0.6 goals
Tauru is coming with a rush and his combine results were superb to continue a wave of momentum. The Gippsland tall was thrown around the park this year, looking adept as an interceptor for Vic Country but also dominating as a lead-up forward at times. At the combine he ran a solid 6:36 minutes in the 2km then caught the eye with a 3.001 second 20m sprint. But it's his natural leap at the ball and exceptional marking ability that makes him a special prospect and he took out the running vertical jump at 96cm. Tauru is garnering consideration from North Melbourne at pick 2, such is his meteoric rise.
Best traits similar to: Tom Stewart
14. Joe Berry (13)
Murray Bushrangers/Vic Country
FWD, 180cm
National Champs: 4 games, 13.2 disposals, 2.8 tackles, 2.2 goals
Talent League: 14 games, 14.4 disposals, 2.9 tackles, 1.9 goals
Berry didn't test at the combine and had a quiet end to the season with the Bushrangers, but recruiters aren't quick to forget the bags of goals he kicked for club and state. At the national champs he was a game-changer, injecting life into on-ball rotations and executing beautifully going inside 50. He has the speed, defensive intent, skills, and goal nous to become an exceptional forward at the next level.
Best traits similar to: Dylan Moore
15. Bo Allan (17)
Peel Thunder/Western Australia
DEF/MID, 191cm
National Champs: 3 games, 20.0 disposals, 3.7 clearances, 6.0 tackles
WAFL: 11 games, 11.4 disposals, 2.9 marks, 2.9 tackles
Allan did his top-10 draft chances no harm on Sunday with outstanding results across the board. He ran a sub-three second 20m sprint and finished top-five in three other events. It reflects the powerful burst midfielder that Allan has become this year, leading WA in the champs and playing extended football at WAFL level which resulted in a premiership with Peel. The physically imposing on-baller may start his career at halfback and is poised to play a lot of senior football early in his career.
Best traits similar to: Elliot Yeo
16. Luke Trainor (12)
Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro
DEF, 194cm
National Champs: 4 games, 19.8 disposals, 5.8 marks, 4.5 intercepts
Talent League: 5 games, 19.8 disposals, 5.6 marks, 2.2 tackles
An injured hip meant Trainor missed the combine, and he also missed out on the Dragons' Grand Final win due to concussion. It's been a frustrating back half of the year for the interceptor after kicking the winning goal against Vic Country in the national champs. At his best, the smooth-moving tall takes intercept marks at will and kickstarts transition with a lovely right foot.
Best traits similar to: Jordan Ridley
17. Jobe Shanahan (14)
Bendigo Pioneers/Allies
FWD, 194cm
National Champs: 4 games, 12.2 disposals, 5.5 marks, 1.2 goals
Talent League: 11 games, 12.9 disposals, 5.0 marks, 2.1 goals
A powerful marking tall, Shanahan's VFL exploits with Essendon stamped his first-round credentials ahead of a host of key forwards. He has a stocky frame that will continue to fill out with preseasons under the belt but he still managed an impressive 6:35 minutes in the 2km. Shanahan's booming kick can find home from anywhere inside 60 metres.
Best traits similar to: Jacob van Rooyen
18. Murphy Reid (16)
Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro
MID/FWD, 180cm
2024 Champs: 4 games, 24.5 disposals, 3.2 clearances, 1.0 goals
Talent League: 9 games, 25.1 disposals, 4.0 clearances, 1.1 goals
Reid didn't test due to a knee injury suffered in the first half of the CTL Grand Final, but clubs are confident it won't keep him out of action for long. He's a silky distributor with creativity oozing out of every disposal, able to lead teammates into space and kick a lot of goals with smart running patterns. It means he may be most effective forward of the ball at the next level, but that didn't stop him from dominating as a midfielder all year.
Best traits similar to: Gryan Miers
19. Taj Hotton (18)
Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro
FWD/MID, 182cm
Talent League: 3 games, 28.7 disposals, 7.3 marks, 1.7 goals
Hotton was the hard luck story of the year, suffering an ACL tear after three incredible games for Sandringham. He will still garner first-round consideration and showed enough for clubs to be confident in his ability to translate the agility, ball use, and scoreboard impact to AFL level.
Best traits similar to: Harry Sheezel
20. Ollie Hannaford (27)
GWV Rebels/Vic Country
FWD/DEF, 180cm
National Champs: 3 games, 10.7 disposals, 3.0 marks, 3.3 tackles
Talent League: 16 games, 16.2 disposals, 4.1 tackles, 1.2 goals
One of the big bolters is Hannaford, who left his run so late he didn't receive enough club interest to register for the national combine. He still showed out in the state combine with a 2.954 20m sprint. As a forward Hannaford is electric in the air and on the ground, able to kick goals in a variety of ways and play with an infectious energy. He played big finals games including being the Rebels' best in a Grand Final loss to Sandringham.
Best traits similar to: Kai Lohmann
21. Kayle Gerreyn (19)
West Perth/Western Australia
RUCK/FWD, 199cm
National Champs: 4 games, 12.5 disposals, 9.0 hitouts, 1.2 goals
WAFL Colts: 11 games, 21.5 disposals, 6.2 marks, 1.6 goals
Gerreyn's unique profile was on show at the combine. He trailed other big men in the 2km and didn't produce great numbers in the jumping or sprint tests, but then blitzed the agility test with a top-six time. It matches the tape - Gerreyn has a top-heavy frame and is light on his feet in the contest, able to shift out of trouble to use his brilliant skills. The WA tall has more risk than others around this mark, but his ability to use the ball well and kick goals in a variety of ways is exciting.
Best traits similar to: Riley Thilthorpe
22. Jack Whitlock (20)
Murray Bushrangers/Vic Country
FWD, 200cm
National Champs: 4 games, 14.8 disposals, 5.0 marks, 1.0 goals
Talent League: 12 games, 16.4 disposals, 4.8 marks, 2.1 goals
Whitlock has a twin brother, Matt, who's also around this mark, and the combine confirmed his solid athletic profile with a 6:39 minute 2km and 3.155 second 20m sprint. He looked best with extended stints in the ruck because his clean hands and running ability saw him collect a lot of the ball, but he also kicked bags of goals up forward where he's likely to play the majority of his career. Whitlock needs time in the gym and patience from the club that drafts him, but there's no reason why he can't make a big impact in time.
Best traits similar to: Ben King
23. Alex Dodson (21)
Sturt/South Australia
RUC, 203cm
National Champs: 3 games, 17.3 disposals, 19.7 hitouts, 3.7 clearances
SANFL U18s: 9 games, 20.8 disposals, 6.0 marks, 4.6 clearances
Dodson racks up the ball for a ruckman and offers huge upside as a tall that can win clearances and generate a tonne of scores out of the midfield. Choosing football over a professional basketball career, Dodson is the premier ruck in the pool and has suitors early in the second round.
Best traits similar to: Tim English
24. Sam Marshall (29) - Brisbane Academy
Sandringham Dragons/Allies
MID, 185cm
National Champs: 4 games, 27.0 disposals, 4.0 clearances, 3.8 tackles
Talent League: 8 games, 23.4 disposals, 6.1 marks, 2.7 clearances
Marshall won best on ground honours in the CTL Grand Final and looks bound for Brisbane. The hard-running midfielder finds space with elite work rate, and executes skills well when given time. He projects to start his career on a flank or wing like Jaspa Fletcher has over the past two seasons.
Best traits similar to: Adam Cerra
25. Cooper Hynes (24)
Dandenong Stingrays/Vic Country
FWD/MID, 190cm
National Champs: 4 games, 16.8 disposals, 4.8 marks, 1.0 goals
Talent League: 15 games, 23.7 disposals, 4.7 clearances, 1.5 goals
It was a disappointment that Hynes couldn't test at the combine because his blend of power and burst would have made for interesting results. He hits the contest with ferocity and often overwhelmed opposition with his strength and speed this year. Hynes doesn't offer the same skill some other midfielders might towards the top of the pool, but projects well to AFL level as an impact half forward with his frenzied pressure and scoreboard impact.
Best traits similar to: Sam Powell-Pepper
26. Hamish Davis (25)
Claremont/Western Australia
FWD/MID, 190cm
National Champs: 4 games, 14.5 disposals, 4.0 marks, 1.8 goals
WAFL: 7 games, 14.3 disposals, 2.7 marks, 1.0 goals
Davis ran an elite 6:18 minutes in the 2km which reflected his game this year. He went from a 40-disposal Colts game as a midfielder to kicking four goals in a WAFL final, and his half forward play against men was ultra-impressive. Davis has the ability to get up and down the ground all game and hit the scoreboard consistently.
Best traits similar to: Will Hayward
27. Jesse Dattoli (26)
Northern Knights/Vic Metro
MID/FWD, 179cm
National Champs: 4 games, 15.2 disposals, 7.2 marks, 0.8 goals
Talent League: 7 games, 23.1 disposals, 3.9 clearances, 1.7 goals
Dattoli didn't test at the combine but the finish to his season was strong, averaging a contested mark per game and kicking goals in a variety of ways. He's a small forward who can impact through the middle, but will need to become a better defensive factor in the AFL.
Best traits similar to: Josh Rachele
28. Jonty Faull (22)
GWV Rebels/Vic Country
FWD, 195cm
National Champs: 3 games, 8.3 disposals, 3.3 marks, 1.7 goals
Talent League: 10 games, 13.3 disposals, 4.4 marks, 2.7 goals
Faull is a no-nonsense key forward that presents at the ball hard and always creates a contest down the line. Faull began the season as the top key forward option before injury hampered his start, but he finished 2024 on a high with a few bags of goals. He tested in the middle of the pack of key forwards.
Best traits similar to: Brody Mihocek
29. James Barrat (30)
Bendigo Pioneers/Vic Country
DEF/FWD, 193cm
National Champs: 3 games, 9.3 disposals, 5.0 marks, 0.7 goals
Talent League: 13 games, 16.5 disposals, 7.2 marks, 1.7 goals
Barrat is physically developed and has played in all three areas of the ground this year, but caught the eye with an impressive 3.031 20m sprint. He will need to play above his size at the next level, and it most likely happens as a key defender, but there are many examples of players with his game making it in the AFL.
Best traits similar to: Josh Battle
30. Christian Moraes (28)
Eastern Ranges, Vic Metro
MID/FWD, 183cm
National Champs: 4 games, 20.8 disposals, 5.8 marks, 0.8 goals
Talent League: 12 games, 23.8 disposals, 4.1 clearances, 1.5 goals
Moraes has had a tough finish to the season, forced out of the midfield in the national champs but still finding ways to impact by collecting a lot of the ball with a high work rate. He uses it creatively when given space but can often rush his disposal. Moraes' ability to hit the scoreboard is valuable.
Best traits similar to: Elijah Hollands
AFL Draft: Bolters emerge as combine takes centre stage
One of the most important weekends on the junior footy calendar has been run and won, with standout performances littered across the combine making ESPN's draft board for October a little clearer.
I’m sure if Houston played for us you’d accept that deal. 3 picks in the 30’s for a dual AA
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Definitely, but Lipinski is more versatile in terms of being able to attend centre bounces as a midfielder, a role that WHE can't play, so they don't have the exact same strings to their bow, but have similar overall levels of versatility.
Apex36
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Why would we bother making an offer for Houston that’s guaranteed to be rejected?
This obsession with draftees over proven quality always continues to baffle me.
Jen2310
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- Thread starter
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HS top 60
1. Levi Ashcroft - 179cm mid (Lions F/S)
2. Jagga Smith - 182cm Mid
3. Finn O'Sullivan - 182cm Mid
4. Harvey Lanford - 191cm Mid
5. Sid Draper - 182cm Mid
6. Sam Lalor - 188cm Mid/fwd
7. Murphy Reid - 181cm Mid
8. Josh Smille - 195cm Mid
9. Harry Armstrong - 195cm key fwd
10. Leo Lombard - 179cm mid/fwd (Suns Academy)
11. Tobie Travaglia - 187cm mid/def
12. Alixzander Tauru - 193cm def/fwd
13. Luke Trainor - 194cm def
14. Bo Allan - 191cm mid/def
15. Isaac Kako - 176cm fwd (Essendon NGA)
16. Jobe Shanahan - 195cm key fwd
17. Taj Hotton - 182cm mid/fwd (acl -injured)
18. Xavier Lindsay - 183cm mid
19. Sam Marshall - 185cm mid (Lions Academy)
20. Jack Whitlock - 200cm key fwd
21. Alex Dodson - 201cm ruck
22. Joe Berry - 181cm fwd
23. Cooper Hynes - 191cm mid/fwd
24. Jonty Faull - 195cm key fwd
25. Jessee Dattoli - 179cm fwd/mid
26. Matt Whitlock - 198cm key def/fwd
27. Ollie Hannaford - 180cm fwd
28. Tom Gross - 181cm mid/fwd
29. Christian Morales - 183cm mid/fwd
30. Noah Mraz - 198cm def
31. Ben Camporeale - 186cm mid (Carlton F/S)
32. Hamish Davis - 190cm fwd/mid
33. Jack Ough - 194cm def/mid
34. Harrison Oliver - 181cm def
35. James Barrat - 194cm def/fwd
36. Logan Smith - 204cm ruck (Giants Academy)
37. Lachie Jacques - 184cm def
38. Harry O'Farrell - 197cm def
39. Angus Clarke - 189cm def
40. Archer-Day Wicks - 186cm fwd
41. Kayle Gerryn - 199cm fwd/ruck
42. Adrian Cole - 194cm def (St Kilda NGA)
43. Tom Sims - 199cm fwd/ruck
44. Charlie Nicholls - 197cm fwd/def
45. Floyd Burmeister - 199cm ruck/fwd
46. Nathaniel Sulzberger - 187cm fwd/mid
47. Xavier Ivisic - 180cm fwd/mid
48. Joel Cochran - 194cm def (Sydney Academy)
49. Josh Dolan - 177cm fwd/mid
50. Clancy Dennis - 195cm def
51. Lennox Hofmann - 190cm def (St Kilda NGA)
52. Lucas Camporeale - 184cm mid/def
53. Jasper Alger - 183cm fwd
54. Bailey Mckenzie - 191cm fwd
55. Riley Bice - 185cm def (mature ager)
56. Malakai Champion - 172cm fwd (Eagles NGA)
57. Tyler Welsh - 191cm fwd (Adelaide F/S)
58. Sam Davidson - 191cm fwd (mature ager)
59. Sam Toner - 186cm fwd
60. Gabriel Stumpf - 196cm key fwd
1. Levi Ashcroft - 179cm mid (Lions F/S)
2. Jagga Smith - 182cm Mid
3. Finn O'Sullivan - 182cm Mid
4. Harvey Lanford - 191cm Mid
5. Sid Draper - 182cm Mid
6. Sam Lalor - 188cm Mid/fwd
7. Murphy Reid - 181cm Mid
8. Josh Smille - 195cm Mid
9. Harry Armstrong - 195cm key fwd
10. Leo Lombard - 179cm mid/fwd (Suns Academy)
11. Tobie Travaglia - 187cm mid/def
12. Alixzander Tauru - 193cm def/fwd
13. Luke Trainor - 194cm def
14. Bo Allan - 191cm mid/def
15. Isaac Kako - 176cm fwd (Essendon NGA)
16. Jobe Shanahan - 195cm key fwd
17. Taj Hotton - 182cm mid/fwd (acl -injured)
18. Xavier Lindsay - 183cm mid
19. Sam Marshall - 185cm mid (Lions Academy)
20. Jack Whitlock - 200cm key fwd
21. Alex Dodson - 201cm ruck
22. Joe Berry - 181cm fwd
23. Cooper Hynes - 191cm mid/fwd
24. Jonty Faull - 195cm key fwd
25. Jessee Dattoli - 179cm fwd/mid
26. Matt Whitlock - 198cm key def/fwd
27. Ollie Hannaford - 180cm fwd
28. Tom Gross - 181cm mid/fwd
29. Christian Morales - 183cm mid/fwd
30. Noah Mraz - 198cm def
31. Ben Camporeale - 186cm mid (Carlton F/S)
32. Hamish Davis - 190cm fwd/mid
33. Jack Ough - 194cm def/mid
34. Harrison Oliver - 181cm def
35. James Barrat - 194cm def/fwd
36. Logan Smith - 204cm ruck (Giants Academy)
37. Lachie Jacques - 184cm def
38. Harry O'Farrell - 197cm def
39. Angus Clarke - 189cm def
40. Archer-Day Wicks - 186cm fwd
41. Kayle Gerryn - 199cm fwd/ruck
42. Adrian Cole - 194cm def (St Kilda NGA)
43. Tom Sims - 199cm fwd/ruck
44. Charlie Nicholls - 197cm fwd/def
45. Floyd Burmeister - 199cm ruck/fwd
46. Nathaniel Sulzberger - 187cm fwd/mid
47. Xavier Ivisic - 180cm fwd/mid
48. Joel Cochran - 194cm def (Sydney Academy)
49. Josh Dolan - 177cm fwd/mid
50. Clancy Dennis - 195cm def
51. Lennox Hofmann - 190cm def (St Kilda NGA)
52. Lucas Camporeale - 184cm mid/def
53. Jasper Alger - 183cm fwd
54. Bailey Mckenzie - 191cm fwd
55. Riley Bice - 185cm def (mature ager)
56. Malakai Champion - 172cm fwd (Eagles NGA)
57. Tyler Welsh - 191cm fwd (Adelaide F/S)
58. Sam Davidson - 191cm fwd (mature ager)
59. Sam Toner - 186cm fwd
60. Gabriel Stumpf - 196cm key fwd
manicpie
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I couldn't take Draper at 5, too many scars from his brother
If that's at all true why isn't he being rated more highly?
I hate the thought that they could get him without a bid coming inside the top 25 or so.
I want to see some deficit attached to that future 2nd. LOL. Hell if we somehow end up with 23 or 29 we can do it.
Jen2310
Premium Platinum
- Thread starter
- #715
Speaking at the Western Australian draft combine on Sunday, Sheehan said that West Coast should seriously consider splitting pick 3, declaring that the 2024 crop could be one of the best in AFL history.
“I think you’d take the two for one in this draft if the two picks were inside 20,” Sheehan said. “I think the likelihood is high that the top 25 or so will be long-term players and some champions of the game.
“The depth inside the top 20-25 players is enormous. Pick 18 could be as good as pick 8.
“We’ve talked of super drafts back in the year of Sam Walsh, the King twins, Bailey, those sorts of boys. That was super draft number two. The other year was back in 2001.
“There’s strong comparisons that this could be one of the top three (drafts) that we’ve had in the last 20-odd years.
“It’s a great time to go to market so to speak and get the new talent in and stock up is what the clubs are all saying. They’re very upbeat for what this draft could deliver.”
“I think you’d take the two for one in this draft if the two picks were inside 20,” Sheehan said. “I think the likelihood is high that the top 25 or so will be long-term players and some champions of the game.
“The depth inside the top 20-25 players is enormous. Pick 18 could be as good as pick 8.
“We’ve talked of super drafts back in the year of Sam Walsh, the King twins, Bailey, those sorts of boys. That was super draft number two. The other year was back in 2001.
“There’s strong comparisons that this could be one of the top three (drafts) that we’ve had in the last 20-odd years.
“It’s a great time to go to market so to speak and get the new talent in and stock up is what the clubs are all saying. They’re very upbeat for what this draft could deliver.”
sr36
TheBrownDog
Speaking at the Western Australian draft combine on Sunday, Sheehan said that West Coast should seriously consider splitting pick 3, declaring that the 2024 crop could be one of the best in AFL history.
“I think you’d take the two for one in this draft if the two picks were inside 20,” Sheehan said. “I think the likelihood is high that the top 25 or so will be long-term players and some champions of the game.
“The depth inside the top 20-25 players is enormous. Pick 18 could be as good as pick 8.
“We’ve talked of super drafts back in the year of Sam Walsh, the King twins, Bailey, those sorts of boys. That was super draft number two. The other year was back in 2001.
“There’s strong comparisons that this could be one of the top three (drafts) that we’ve had in the last 20-odd years.
“It’s a great time to go to market so to speak and get the new talent in and stock up is what the clubs are all saying. They’re very upbeat for what this draft could deliver.”
THe thing with 2001 - which remains the super draft high water mark - there were massive hits - all the way down to Brian Lake at pick 71 - but also misses or mediocrity all the way through.
2001 AFL National Draft - Draftguru
www.draftguru.com.au
Jen2310
Premium Platinum
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Always a risk at that no matter the year. But if you can come out with more high end term hits that would be a win.THe thing with 2001 - which remains the super draft high water mark - there were massive hits - all the way down to Brian Lake at pick 71 - but also misses or mediocrity all the way through.
2001 AFL National Draft - Draftguru
You may find some hits later on in the draft, and some misses may occur within the top 20. But having the quality depth can't be a bad thing, and is a risk worth taking.
Finding quality players in he later rounds would be a real bonus. Would show more about the quality of the drafts, nothing against the player.
sr36
TheBrownDog
I agree. It's why we're trying to maintain a draft hand as well as getting Houston. I'm hopeful we end up with 29 and those 3rd rounders that will improve when the matching occurs and picks vanish.
manicpie
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If we somehow get 13 and not Houston, I hope it gets us Shanahan, he's got Curnow vibes. I wouldn't mind splitting 13 for 19 and 21 from Sydney and get 2 KPP we can develop
manicpie
Brownlow Medallist
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We might even have 23, that would really set us up. It would be quite a draft haul
Jen2310
Premium Platinum
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Yeah, I can understand why Leppa refuses to give 23 to port if we got it.
Not gonna blow our entire draft hand for one player, and he said they have to weigh up present v future and they would choose the future if it gets too much that they aren't willing to spend.
We can't go into the draft with picks in the 50's.
So if we can some out of wed with 23, 36 at the very worst. That will be a good range if we can get Houston too.
If we dont get houston but still manage to get 13, that will set us up.
Will be very interesting how Leppa manages recruiting and having enough for the draft.
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Just letting you know ur interviewing a boy called Luke Kennedy this afternoon. Plays for Sandy as a hard running midfielder. Expected to go in the later stage of the draft, kicks both feet and excellent defensively. Would win ur time trial by a long way day 1 too as a sub 6 min runner.
Hoping you don't take him because I hate your mob but thought I'd let you know
Hoping you don't take him because I hate your mob but thought I'd let you know
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