Draft Watcher Young Talent Time 2015

[Chris25]

The Big Board

1. Jacob Weitering (195cm, 90kg defender from Dandenong)
2. Aaron Francis (192cm, 89kg utility from West Adelaide)
3. Darcy Parish (181cm, 72kg midfielder from Geelong)
4. Callum Mills (186cm, 73kg midfielder from North Shore)
5. Jacob Hopper (186cm, 82kg midfielder from North Ballarat)
6. Josh Schache (199cm, 96kg forward from Murray Bushrangers)
7. Sam Weideman (196cm, 91kg forward from Eastern Ranges)
8. Ryan Burton (191cm, 90kg forward from North Adelaide)
9. Kieran Collins (193cm, 94kg defender from Dandenong Stingrays)
10. Harley Balic (186cm, 80kg midfielder from Sandringham)

11. Charlie Curnow (191cm, 95kg forward from Geelong)
12. Darcy Tucker (184cm, 78kg midfielder from North Ballarat)
13. Callum Ah Chee (182cm, 71kg forward/midfielder from South Fremantle)
14. Jade Gresham (177cm, 74kg midfielder from Northern Knights)
15. Harrison Himmelberg (192cm, 84kg forward from Eastlake)
16. Matthew Kennedy (187cm, 84kg midfielder from NSW/Collingullie)
17. Thomas Cole (185cm, 76kg midfielder from Bendigo Pioneers)
18. Rhys Mathieson (185cm, 79kg midfielder from Geelong)
19. Mitchell Hibberd (191cm, 85kg defender/midfielder from Clarence)
20. Wayne Milera (185cm, 75kg midfielder from Central Districts)

21. Clayton Oliver (187cm, 86kg midfielder from Murray Bushrangers)
22. Ben Keays (185cm, 78kg midfielder from Morningside)
23. Aidyn Johnson (184cm, 75kg midfielder from Bendigo Pioneers)
24. Harry McKay (200cm, 85kg forward from Gippsland Power)
25. Greg Clark (193cm, 82kg midfielder from Subiaco)
26. Eric Hipwood (200cm, 82kg defender from Aspley)
27. Riley Bonner (191cm, 80kg defender from West Adelaide)
28. Brandon White (188cm, 78kg defender from Dandenong Stingrays)
29. David Cunningham (183cm, 79kg midfielder from Oakleigh Chargers)
30. Stephen Tahana (183cm, 79kg defender from North Adelaide)

31. Nicholas Coughlan (195cm, 83kg defender from Murray Bushrangers)
32. Blake Hardwick (181cm, 78kg forward from Eastern Ranges)
33. Luke Partington (181cm, 75kg midfielder from Norwood)
34. Sam Skinner (197cm, 96kg defender from Gippsland Power)
35. Dylan Smith (198cm, 81kg defender/forward from Swan Districts)
36. James Parsons (189cm, 79kg midfielder from Eastern Ranges)
37. Kieran Lovell (174cm, 80kg midfielder from Kingston Tigers)
38. Nash Holmes (180cm, 74kg midfielder from Gippsland Power)
39. Josh Dunkley (189cm, 85kg midfielder from Gippsland Power)
40. Jesse Glass-McCasker (198cm, 95kg defender from Swan Districts)

41. Callum Moore (193cm, 85kg forward from Calder Cannons)
42. Ryan Clarke (186cm, 84kg midfielder from Eastern Ranges)
43. Mason Redman (187cm, 76kg midfielder from Glenelg)
44. Daniel Rioli (179cm, 65kg forward from North Ballarat Rebels)
45. Liam Jeffs (192cm, 78kg midfielder from Eastern Ranges)
46. Bailey Williams (187cm, 77kg midfielder from Glenelg)
47. Ben McKay (200cm, 91kg defender from Gippsland Power)
48. Oleg Markov (188cm, 78kg forward/midfielder from North Adelaide)
49. Bailey Rice (184cm, 81kg defender from Dandenong Stingrays)
50. Lachlan Tiziani (188cm, 80kg midfielder from Murray Bushrangers)

51. Alex Morgan (181cm, 79kg midfielder from Oakleigh Chargers)
52. Yestin Eades (183cm, 80kg midfielder from North Ballarat Rebels)
53. Brydon Hodgson (186cm, 81kg midfielder/forward from Eastlake)
54. Matthew Allen (193cm, 91kg forward from Glenelg)
55. Christian Buykx-Smith (193cm, 85kg defender from Gippsland Power)
56. Davin Ferreira (174cm, 68kg forward from Wanderers)
57. Jock Cornell (186cm, 81kg midfielder from Manglopah CUE)
58. Ben Crocker (185cm, 84kg forward/midfielder from Oakleigh Chargers)
59. Keiran Agius (187cm, 84kg forward from North Adelaide)
60. Will Snelling (177cm, 68kg midfielder from West Adelaide)

61. Hisham Kerbatieh (177cm, 77kg forward from Calder Cannons)
62. Kurt Mutimer (185cm, 82kg midfielder from Dandenong Stingrays)
63. Brayden Fiorini (187cm, 76kg midfielder from Northern Knights)
64. Matthew Flynn (200cm, 99kg ruckman from Narrandera)
65. Jack Firns (195cm, 92kg defender from Oakleigh Chargers)
66. Cameron Hewett (189cm, 77kg midfielder from North Adelaide)
67. Jack Silvagni (191cm, 83kg forward/defender from Oakleigh Chargers)
68. Luke Surman (197cm, 98kg forward/defender from Norwood)
69. Gach Nyuon (200cm, 88kg ruckman from Dandenong Stingrays)
70. Daniel Houston (186cm, 83kg forward from Oakleigh Chargers)

Where are the mature aged players, you say? Well, I left them out and put the over 20 year olds into their own list...

1. Matthew Uebergang (194cm, 91kg defender from Redlands)
2. Marcus Adams (192cm, 96kg defender from West Perth)
3. Chris Jansen (188cm, 82kg midfielder from Central Districts)
4. Sam Menegola (188cm, 88kg midfielder from Subiaco)
5. Michael Hartley (199cm, 100kg defender from Coburg)
6. Nathan Broad (191cm, 83kg defender from Swan Districts)
7. Mitch Brown (196cm, 93kg defender/forward from Sandringham)
8. Tom Keough (193cm, 91kg defender from West Adelaide)
9. Darcy Cameron (204cm, 101kg ruckman from Claremont)
10. Patrick Levicki (194cm, 89kg defender from Norwood)


Links to posts

I'm going to be writing a few different articles/posts throughout the season, but I figure I'll just update this post with the links to them. As opposed to creating new threads or editing them into the first page...

19 year olds to watch
NEAFL Draft Prospects
The hard calls that need to be made
Draftee Profile: Aaron Francis
Draftee Profile: Oleg Markov

 

[Chris25]

Trade week is done and dusted, and almost the entire draft order has changed. So it's time for an update. I included a basic attempt at the bidding system, so that's why the order has changed. My bidding went like this...

Jacob Hopper - nominated by Essendon at #4 and matched
Callum Mills - nominated by Essendon at #5 and matched
Matthew Kennedy - nominated by Richmond at #13 and matched
Ben Keays - nominated by Hawthorn at #17 and matched
Eric Hipwood - nominated by Hawthorn at #21 and matched
Nick Coughlan - nominated by Western Bulldogs at #25 and not matched
Harrison Himmelberg - nominated by Fremantle at #26 and matched
Bailey Rice - nominated by Brisbane at #39 and matched
Lachlan Tiziani - nominated by Melbourne at #42 and matched
Corey Wagner - nominated by Western Bulldogs at #48 and matched
Jock Cornell - nominated by Sydney at #51 and matched

Otherwise, what's happening in my draft? It's probably not as out there as in previous years. I do have Harry McKay dropping, I just don't see him as being a true #1 tall - more a Jenkins or Vickery at best. But he'll go much higher on draft day.


Round 1

1. Carlton - Jacob Weitering (195cm, 90kg defender from Dandenong)

Weitering is the best player in the draft for me, so it would be hard for any team to pass on him. I do think Carlton need midfielders more, but they're not particularly flash down back either. He's pretty much the complete package as a defender, and should be every bit as good as the likes of McPharlin and Rance.

2. Brisbane - Josh Schache (199cm, 96kg forward from Murray Bushrangers)

I don't necessarily think Schache is the second best player in the draft, actually I don't think that at all. But him and the Lions just fit too well. They desperately need a genuine #1 key forward who can clunk a mark, and Schache actually wants to play for them. That doesn't happen often.

3. Melbourne - Darcy Parish (181cm, 72kg midfielder from Geelong)

For me, Parish is the best midfielder in the draft. Even better than the Academy players. He doesn't have ideal size, but he has almost everything else. I think he's perfect for the modern game, in that he has a good inside/outside balance and can play at either end too. He looks to take the game on at almost every opportunity, and could be the player for the Suns to build around in the future.

4. GWS - Jacob Hopper* (186cm, 82kg midfielder from North Ballarat)

First Academy bid, and it's the Giants not the Swans who are called on. Hopper is an impressive contested ball winning midfielder, but it's his ability across the forward line that impresses me. He is a genuine goal scorer, and uses his body well. I think that's where he'll see early playing time with the Giants. He could be the first player bid on.

5. Sydney - Callum Mills* (186cm, 73kg midfielder from North Shore)

Another early bid, I have Essendon again nominating Mills with Sydney to match. Now he does have the ideal size for the modern game, and it says a lot that he's been out injured yet is still considered one of the best players in the draft. I think he'll have an impact early, even at the Swans - where other young midfielders struggle to break in. He'll immediately make them better and stronger in the middle.

6. Essendon - Sam Weideman (196cm, 91kg forward from Eastern Ranges)

Few players are dividing opinion as much as Weideman it seems. I think it would be different had he not been injured so often, I don't think it's out of the question that he would have performed better than Schache at the Championships. I think he's a smarter player and a better kick. I don't understand those saying he gets by on strength alone. That's so far from the truth.

7. Essendon - Harley Balic (186cm, 80kg midfielder from Sandringham)

Mills and Hopper may have been the target in this draft, but Balic is a handy back up plan for the Bombers. Of the top players, it's his versatility that makes him standout. Equally as good across half forward as he is in the midfield. Some midfielders throw themselves in hard and win the ball, while others dance around the traffic to break free. Balic can do both. He isn't your typical midfielder/flanker.

8. Gold Coast - Ryan Burton (191cm, 90kg forward from North Adelaide)

This time last year, Burton was a top 10 pick and the best forward in the draft - so lets keep him as a top 10 pick. But the broken leg has put a real dampener on things. He's a ridiculously good mark for someone his size and a genuine goal kicker. He was Jack Gunston like in 2014. I hope he plays some games before the draft, because I'm not convinced he is still drafted high otherwise. Huge bargain if his medical report is all good.

9. Melbourne - Aaron Francis (192cm, 89kg utility from West Adelaide)

I consider Francis to be a top 3 talent in this draft, but I don't think he goes as high as people are expecting. He isn't an absolutely can't miss player, as talented as he is. Personally, I don't see him becoming a midfielder. But he's a hell of a defender, best mark in the draft and can read the play better than anyone. Can obviously play up forward too. He should see action early.

10. Carlton - Jade Gresham (177cm, 74kg midfielder from Northern Knights)

Gresham was named in the bests in fairly well every one of his games in the TAC Cup this year. And was the Vic Metro MVP too. It may have taken me a while, but I feel like I'm finally giving him the credit he deserves . He does basically everything in the midfield, he wins his own ball and runs hard all day. He's improved as goal scorer in 2015, and could start his career as a small forward along the likes of a Luke Dahlhaus.

11. Adelaide - Mitchell Hibberd (191cm, 85kg defender/midfielder from Clarence)

Last year, Hibberd's draft chances were undone by injury. He really didn't get a chance to show what he can do. But he came back for Tasmania this year, and did everything he possibly could. A half back/midfielder, at the Championships he played that Kolodjashnij/Thurlow type role to good effect. But I think he could play in the middle, mainly as an outside wing. Even if he doesn't, he's a big body and a nice kick and has played good enough football to be a top 20 pick.

12. Carlton - Charlie Curnow (191cm, 95kg forward from Geelong)

Curnow is one of the most intriguing project players in the draft. Does he play as a forward? Or can he truly be developed into a big midfielder? Where he gets drafted will depend a lot on that. I'm thinking high half forward into the wings personally. Someone will love the potential he carries, less risk when you've already had two first round picks like Carlton has had.

13. GWS - Matthew Kennedy* (187cm, 84kg midfielder from NSW/Collingullie)

Time for another bid, this time with Richmond forcing the Giants to cough up some picks to move back into the first round. GWS don't really need both Hopper and Kennedy, they are both reasonably similar players and they already have a talented midfield. But hey, talent is talent. Kennedy is probably my favourite midfielder in the draft, he reminds me a bit of Barlow in that he isn't the most gifted or noticeable player but he is always one of the best on the ground.

14. Richmond - Darcy Tucker (184cm, 78kg midfielder from North Ballarat)

I haven't quite made my mind up on Tucker yet, mainly in regards to whether he is a midfielder or half back. He looks most comfortable in the back half for me, he sets the play up well when it's all unfolding ahead of himself. But it's that composure and skills that will have a team thinking he is a midfielder waiting to emerge. Could go either way on draft day in my opinion.

15. Adelaide - Kieran Collins (193cm, 94kg defender from Dandenong Stingrays)

So maybe this isn't a need, but another quality tall defender never hurts. And Collins is a top 10 talent for me, so presents real value here. Last year, he was one of the best shut down full backs and this year he has taken that next step to set himself up as the second best defender in the draft. His offensive game has taken off, and his intercept marking is top notch.

16. St Kilda - Wayne Milera (185cm, 75kg midfielder from Central Districts)

Usually, Milera would be one I overrate and it's only now that I'm coming around to him. He fits the mould of my type of player, but I don't necessarily see it as much with him. I think he plays off of a half forward flank. His best would be something like Matthew Stokes - he isn't a natural crumbing forward, but not really a natural ball winner either. Feed him the ball though, and watch him hit his every target every single time. He has time and space where others don't.

17. Brisbane - Ben Keays* (185cm, 78kg midfielder from Morningside)

Someone has to bid on Keays eventually, it'll be somewhere in the first round. But Brisbane will match, there's little question over that. You can't question his performances, each and every week he is winning the ball and amongst the bests. So I should probably rate him higher than I do. He's just a footballer, nothing outstanding about him. He isn't quick, particularly agile or skillful. But he gets the job done, and will be a solid piece in a midfield for a while to come.

18. Hawthorn - Clayton Oliver (187cm, 86kg midfielder from Murray Bushrangers)

When the big names were away at the Championships, Oliver is the one who capitalised in the TAC Cup and he continued that form for the rest of the season. Super strong midfielder, arguably one of the best stoppage players in the draft. Always promising when an inside player can kick goals too. How good will he be? I'm really not sure. But worst case, he should be a safe and handy role player. Best case? Well, he could dominate in close.

19. Gold Coast - Thomas Cole (185cm, 76kg midfielder from Bendigo Pioneers)

Cole isn't getting a lot of love it seems, and I don't really know why. Probably because he's seen as a solid half back, not a flashy midfielder. But composure isn't a bad thing. He won't make any mistakes with ball in hand, and is one of the better kicks in the draft for me. He can get some real distance. I think he has every chance to make the move into the midfield too, which could make him a bargain buy.

20. North Melbourne - Riley Bonner (191cm, 80kg defender from West Adelaide)

As good as his kicking is, I've generally had Bonner lower than others. I consider him a fringe first round pick, because I don't think he has real midfield potential. His SANFL form has been alright in the middle, but he is by far more natural on a back flank for me. Can play forward too. Hard to argue with the size and skill combo he has though.

21. Brisbane - Eric Hipwood* (200cm, 82kg defender from Aspley)

Brisbane's picks for the rest of the draft have almost been wiped out now. But, they'd be happy with three first round picks and nothing else. With Schache up forward, Hipwood can be developed down back. He'll need to improve his kicking, so he isn't considered a liabilty on the rebound but his improvement this year suggests he could do that too. Moves well for a tall, second/third tall defender for me.

22. Hawthorn - Callum Ah Chee (182cm, 71kg forward/midfielder from South Fremantle)

I know I still rate him higher than most, but I don't really mind that. I've always been a fan of the flashy types. Anyone who can change a game with just a few touches will always be on my draft board. And Ah Chee does just that. He hasn't really developed a great midfield game yet, but he's a game winner across half forward. So that's good enough for me. There's no doubting his talent.

23. Carlton - Rhys Mathieson (185cm, 79kg midfielder from Geelong)

Mathieson is arguably the most consistent midfielder in the draft, and he has been for the past two years. And you could make a case for him being the best inside midfielder, looking back he could end up being one of the better picks. He is strong in and under, he'd be dangerous with a few more kilos on his frame because he already uses his size well. Decent kick for an inside player too.

 

[Chris25]

Round 2

24. Western Bulldogs - Aidyn Johnson (184cm, 75kg midfielder from Bendigo Pioneers)

Outside the first round, Johnson is another one of my favourite players. He is yet another player to struggle through injury this season, his quad kept him out of the Championships which is a shame. What I like, is that he really offers something that not many others do in the draft. He is quick on the outside and a threat around goals. Probably more of a half forward than midfielder, but he could push up on a wing once he builds his strength and his fitness.

25. Western Bulldogs - Nick Coughlan (195cm, 83kg defender from Murray Bushrangers)

Evidently I like Coughlan more than others, I've had him around my top 30 all season while he initially only received an invite to the State Screening this year. Overlooked as an 18 year old forward last year, he has really impressed as a tall defender in 2015 - having made his debut and not looked out of place in the Footscray VFL side. He was always agile for a player his size, he just looks more comfortable playing behind the ball. Good level of attack to his game too.

26. GWS - Harrison Himmelberg* (192cm, 84kg forward from Eastlake)

One of my favourite players all year, I've been talking him up since the very early rounds of 2015. And I'll continue to do so. He's had a good year as a 19 year old, he's inconsistent but his best is as good as anyones. Gets compared to McCarthy because of the hair, but they do share some similarities. Himmelberg is more your third tall forward though, if he can improve his goal kicking he'll be a serious threat because he moves and marks well.

27. Fremantle - Sam Skinner (197cm, 96kg forward/defender from Gippsland Power)

Skinner missed a chunk of the season through injury, and missed the all important second half of the season. But he ticks a lot of boxes as a tall prospect. He has the size to compete with the biggest opposition forwards, and can move and rebound nicely. Still the third best tall defender despite his injury for me. But, for Fremantle I'd be drafting him as a tall forward. I like his strength and aggression in the forward half.

28. West Coast - James Parsons (189cm, 79kg midfielder from Eastern Ranges)

A 189cm player who is versatile and can kick a ball will always get drafted. And that's what Parsons is. A half forward/wing, Parsons has probably only flashed his potential so far as opposed to truly dominating. He'd be one of the best kicks in the draft though, and hits up well on the lead from half forward. He just really needs to get involved in the play more often, but his good is very good.

29. Essendon - Dylan Smith (198cm, 81kg defender/forward from Swan Districts)

I'm imagining Smith to go anywhere from around 25 to 50, will have to wait and see for now. He didn't have the best Championships and he has been playing injured, but there's a lot of positives for a big man. His athleticism is arguably better than some of the other higher rated talls, and he'd have a better ability of pinch hitting in the ruck. I think he is developed into a tall defender at the next level.

30. Essendon - Daniel Rioli (179cm, 65kg forward/midfielder from St Marys)

Cousin of Cyril, Daniel has shown a few promising signs this year both at the Championships and at TAC Cup level. He's looking like more than just a name. Kicked three goals in his TAC Cup debut, he can also play as a small defender. Very strong in terms of defensive pressure, he has the usual football smarts and tricks you'd expect of a Rioli.

31. North Melbourne - Harry McKay (200cm, 85kg forward from Gippsland Power)

Lots of recruiters put extra value on players who improve in their draft years, and McKay is one of those. In a draft that's thin on key position players, he will absolutely go higher than this. He's not your classic big marking forward, but he has a good leap and marks at the highest point. Plus he's surprisingly agile for a guy who is ruckman height. I just think he lacks a dominant factor.

32. Collingwood - Brandon White (188cm, 78kg defender from Dandenong Stingrays)

Underrated player, he just isn't as eye catching as others. But he's a solid player who is well worth a shot, even in the second round. Primarily a defender, White can either play as a shut down or rebounding option. And he can also play either tall or small. He's got good speed and a long kick for a 'solid' half back, as well as some midfield potential thrown in too. Maybe not quite as good an intercept mark, but he's a little Ibbotson like in his versatility.

33. North Melbourne - Oleg Markov (188cm, 78kg forward/midfielder from North Adelaide)

Last year, I was talking Markov up to anyone who would listen. And once he was overlooked, I said teams would be wishing they had have rookie listed him when they had the chance. And now injury free, he's starting to repay my faith. Some starring performances as a half forward at the Championships showed what he was capable of, even if he doesn't do it consistently enough. But he's quick, a strong mark and can change a game in a matter of minutes.

34. Gold Coast - Josh Dunkley (189cm, 85kg midfielder from Gippsland Power)

If I was Dunkley, I wouldn't nominate as a father son prospect. Mills should be the target for Sydney and with him on board, Dunkley could find himself playing Reserves for longer than he'd want. On the open market, he'd find a team that suits him better. He's made his name as a strong midfielder, but at 189cm he is a big player and he makes the most of that size at either end of the ground. Sydney could play him down back, but I'd be trying for a midfield spot elsewhere.

35. Western Bulldogs - Luke Partington (181cm, 75kg midfielder from Norwood)

I don't think a team could go wrong with Partington really, everything I've seen about him suggests he'll be a solid player at the next level and for a while to come. I'm just not convinced he becomes a true top midfielder. He isn't as fast or as skillful as some make him out to be, but he does everything well. I still think he's good enough to be a best 22 player at AFL level though.

36. West Coast - Stephen Tahana (183cm, 79kg defender from North Adelaide)

Even if his 2015 season wasn't as strong as his underage season last year, I still think Tahana is the best small/medium defensive prospect I've seen come through the draft. It's not very often a draft prospect is an elite defender, it's just not how underage football is played. But Tahana is, he has done a number of shut down jobs already and looked good in doing so. If a club views him as being able to push up as a defensive midfielder, then his draft stocks will increase.

37. Port Adelaide - Ben McKay (200cm, 91kg defender from Gippsland Power)

Definitely one of the late risers in terms of draft rankings, Ben is more than just the other McKay brother. Not picked for the U18 Championships, Ben has shown some decent signs as a tall defender in the TAC Cup. A different player to his brother, hoping for a similar level of improvement isn't too much of an ask though. He moves well for someone his size, and 200cm defenders are all the rage at the moment.

 

[Chris25]

Round 3

38. Fremantle - Blake Hardwick (181cm, 78kg forward from Eastern Ranges)

There are a handful of small forwards who will be around the mark in the third round, Hardwick being one who could even push up into the second - being the leading goal scorer in the TAC Cup with hauls of 10 and 12 goals. Unlike the other smalls though, Hardwick is more of a marking small forward. Like a Tory Dickson. So there would be room for him, even though Fremantle already have a couple of good small forwards. He can also pinch hit in the middle.

39. St Kilda - Bailey Rice* (184cm, 81kg defender from Dandenong Stingrays)

A good choice to nominate the Saints, both for immediate and future prospects. Somewhere around the 40 mark seems about right for me. There's no denying he is a good half back flanker, he's a very good kick of the ball. Not necessarily the strongest player though, maybe that's why I see him as having limited midfield potential. That's what is keeping him down in my order.

40. Brisbane - Ryan Clarke (186cm, 84kg midfielder from Eastern Ranges)

I don't know why I don't rate Clarke higher, I had him in the third round intially before he got a late reprieve. A midfielder with his size should be right up there in my rankings. I just don't think he is great in any one area, is an average kick and think he'll be one who forever frustrates. Maybe I'm missing something. But having said that, he's still in my top 40. So I can't hate him that much.

41. Sydney - Mason Redman (187cm, 76kg midfielder from Glenelg)

From South Australia, Redman's stocks probably increased the most of anyone during the Championships. He wasn't an absolute star across all the games, but he showed enough signs and tricks that a club will like the potential. Capable of playing through the midfield, Redman played predominantly as a forward for SA and kicked a few goals. He's a smart player and good above his head, as well as in traffic.

42. GWS - Lachlan Tiziani* (188cm, 80kg midfielder from Murray Bushrangers)

Another one of these NSW boys who is playing for the Bushrangers in the TAC Cup. He's gradually improved as the year has progressed, more of a flanker or outside midfielder - despite his reasonably big body. Has been playing off half back in the TAC Cup, I'd like to see him on a wing personally. He's big and very quick, also generally uses the ball well. Bit like Hibberd at Essendon.

43. Melbourne - Nash Holmes (180cm, 74kg midfielder from Gippsland Power)

It's always a bit of a giveaway that I rate a player, when I would like them to be picked by Fremantle. I'd consider Holmes arguably the toughest player in the draft. And the best tackler too. He's only reasonably small, but that doesn't stop him. For a player who is always at the bottom of the packs, he is a decent kick and can hit the scoreboard too. I think he'll go higher than people think come draft day, I'd rate him as a safer prospect than most.

44. North Melbourne - Kieran Lovell (174cm, 80kg midfielder from Kingston Tigers)

Only so long I can ignore that little Tasmanian pocket rocket. I don't rate him as high as fellow small in Gresham, but he's been pretty hard to ignore this season. Not many players win as much of the ball as him, he runs pretty much all day and always seems to be on the end of it. I don't see him as having the same ability as the other smalls in the forward half though, and his kicking isn't always as consistently good.

45. Hawthorn - Jesse Glass-McCasker (198cm, 95kg defender from Swan Districts)

One of the more promising tall defenders, outside of the first round obviously. Glass-McCasker was arguably Western Australia's best player at the Championships, and was unlucky to not be in the All Australian squad. He had a good battle with Schache in one of the matches. Not a big factor in terms of rebounding and intercept marks yet, but he's a big kid and has also been swung forward in the WAFL Colts.

46. Port Adelaide - Cameron Hewett (189cm, 76kg midfielder from North Adelaide)

I was a big fan of his brother George in his draft year, he's one player I'd like to try to get away from the Swans with the lure of more football. But if not, then Cameron will have to do. Pretty similar players, play both through the midfield and off half forward. He's tall and still learning, but getting better. Put some more weight on his frame and he could be dangerous, because he's already smart at stoppages.

47. Melbourne - Mitch Brown (196cm, 93kg defender/forward from Sandringham)

After his performance in the preseason, someone will give the former Geelong forward another chance. He's looking at home in the back half, both defensively and offensively. But could also slot in as a second or third tall forward if needed. Chances are he would have played most of the season if he were on an AFL list, so better late than never.

48. Brisbane - Corey Wagner* (180cm, 71kg midfielder from Aspley)

If Brisbane need to fill their list, I imagine they'll use a late pick to take or match a bid on Wagner, so let's just slot him in here. I think he'd be a smart pick up late in the draft. He had a consistent Championships, averaging around 19 touches at a decent efficiency. Can win his own ball and is good around the clearances, as well as having some speed on the outside.

49. Western Bulldogs - David Cuningham (183cm, 79kg midfielder from Oakleigh Chargers)

If I'm predicting a bolter come draft night, I'm going to go with Cuningham. I could see him going somewhere in the 25-30 range, surprising a lot of people. Or, I could be way off the mark. But he has something that not many do in this draft - pure speed. That counts for a lot, and he really does use his pace well whether it be through traffic or on the outside. His foot skills are generally good too. Just needs to be more consistent, and put all his talent together in game.

50. Richmond - Hisham Kerbatieh (177cm, 77kg forward from Calder Cannons)

Kerbatieh is probably one of the more natural crumbing forwards in the draft, even though it's not the strongest draft group in that regard. He hasn't had a particularly consistent season, but he's gradually been getting better as the season has gone on. And he's also pushed up the ground a little more too. I tend to think he's more of a rookie pick in terms of value, but he's playing an increasingly in demand position.

51. GWS - Jock Cornell* (186cm, 81kg midfielder from Manglopah CUE)

I could see Cornell being rated anywhere from a second round pick to a rookie selection on various draft boards, obviously I have him on the higher end. I think he's a solid player who does everything well. He has played largely across half forward so far in his career, and done so well. But I was really impressed with his midfield work at the Championships. He reads the play well, and looked a natural rover. A midfielder who can kick goals is always worth a shot.

52. Sydney - Yestin Eades (183cm, 80kg midfielder from North Ballarat Rebels)

Eades is a talented player, he just hasn't put it all together consistently yet. Moved from WA to Ballarat last year for boarding school, he's had a decent year for the Rebels and has shown good signs of improvement. A capable and dangerous forward, he's also pushed up through the midfield and across half back. Sometimes tries to do too much, but is getting better at doing the team thing.

53. Gold Coast - Alex Morgan (180cm, 80kg midfielder from Oakleigh Chargers)

Lots of 19 year olds in my draft this year, Morgan is yet another. And one who played in the TAC Cup and U18 Championships as an overaged player. The difference is that he wasn't overlooked last year, he just didn't play. So all things considered, this is his draft year. More of a rebounding defender, but I could see him push up the ground. He's good with his hands and feet, nice run to his game too.

54. Essendon - Michael Hartley (198cm, 102kg defender from Coburg)

The former NSW Scholarship holder and Collingwood rookie has been on the draft radar for a couple of seasons now, with some strong form in the VFL. Of the mature aged players, he's the most ready to step in and compete straight away. It was largely just injuries that saw him delisted a few seasons back, seems to have been working hard since then though.


Round 4

55. Carlton - Callum Moore (193cm, 85kg forward from Calder Cannons)

I was surprised to see Moore drop to here, I rate him higher than most. A 19 year old who was nearly drafted last year on the back of hardly any football, he's a former basketballer who is a very strong mark of the ball. I think he's as good as any tall forward after the first round. Not only that, but he'd be an interesting one to develop as a sort of third tall defender.

56. Brisbane - Josh Schoenfeld (186cm, 75kg midfielder from Peel Thunder)

I've been critical of the WA draft crop this year, but Schoenfeld is one who has gotten better as the season has progressed. He's gone from athlete to footballer in the space of a year, so who's to say there isn't more development to come. Best played as an outside midfielder in my opinion, he can run all day and would already have elite endurance. His skills are neat, but maybe not so much over long distances.

57. Carlton - Ben Crocker (185cm, 81kg midfielder from Oakleigh Chargers)

I feel like I should have Crocker higher than I do, but he always ends up around this mark. He's a true utility in that he can play midfield, half back and half forward. What I like is his marking for a player his size, he's good at pulling down a contested grab. He's also a real ball winner, the play just seems to follow him no matter where he plays. He's had some big games in the forward half, but has yet to nail down a permanent position.

58. Fremantle - Marcus Adams (193cm, 98kg defender/forward from West Perth)

22 year old from the WAFL, who essentially didn't play any football in 2012 or 2013. He impressed last year in the forward half, before moving more into defence this season - where he has gone from strength to strength, playing on both talls and smalls. He's smart, strong and reasonably quick for his size. The only issue I have is that he's probably best suited to playing as third/medium tall, but he could fill holes wherever he is needed.

59. West Coast - Will Snelling (177cm, 68kg midfielder from West Adelaide)

Even though everyone wants the tall midfielders, the smaller midfielders are starting to show their value again. And in my opinion, Snelling is one of the better sub 180cm midfielders - even if his profile isn't as big as others. Captain of the South Australian side, he's a smart player both inside and outside. Strong tackler, his ability to find the goals is what sets him apart at his size.

60. GWS - Chris Jansen (188cm, 82kg midfielder from Central Districts)

A star in the NEAFL, Jansen made the move to the SANFL and Central Districts this year as a 20 year old and it's looking like he'll be on the move again come November. More of a half back for Belconnen, Jansen has been one of the best performed midfielders in the SANFL this year. He should be able to step straight into an AFL midfield, he wins his own ball on the inside and out. Plus he has time on his side for a mature aged draftee.

61. Collingwood - Brydon Hodgson (186cm, 81kg midfielder/forward from Eastlake)

Another 19 year old to feature in my draft, I had Hodgson as an outside chance last year and I think he would have been well worth a rookie pick. It might have been the injuries that ended up costing him. He's a strong inside midfielder with the ability to play across half forward, good attack on the ball and a real hard working type. He improved a lot towards the end of last season and has played good football in the NEAFL this year.

62. Geelong - Liam Jeffs (192cm, 78kg midfielder from Eastern Ranges)

If I was going to take a project player in this draft, it would probably be Jeffs. He was quite highly rated coming into 2015 but injured his knee earlier in the season and missed the Championships. He'd have been a really interesting player to watch, might have made Metro more competitive too. Jeffs is a midfielder who can play forward, not the other way around. His kicking can be a little wonky at times, but lets say he can fix that. Once he puts on some more weight and really plays to his height, he'll be a better player. Lots to work with though.

63. St Kilda - Kieran Agius (187cm, 84kg forward from North Adelaide)

There's no guarantee that Agius even gets drafted, but I'm sticking by him. Talent is talent. Coming into the season, Agius was kicking goals at every level he played and at an average of well over 3 a game. This year, his role changed slightly and he was playing up the ground on a flank and even up on a wing. It's easy to see why, his field kicking is excellent. But he never really got going, and his physical conditioning wasn't where it needed to be for such a role.

64. Sydney - Luke Surman (196cm, 97kg defender from Norwood)

Surman will be a great player to have on the rookie list, being such a strong and raw tall defender. He's primarily played basketball before this year, but his development as a player has been quite rapid. Smart defender, reminds me a bit of Heath Grundy. Brenton Phillips thinks he'll be an imposing player once he starts to play to his 97kg frame, and it's hard to argue with that.

65. Adelaide - Bailey Williams (185cm, 75kg midfielder from Glenelg)

One of only a couple of 18 year olds to get an invite to the Combine, despite not having been part of an U18 Championships squad. In draft terms, Williams has come from nowhere having just improved with every match this year. He's just one of those midfielders who the ball follows. He isn't particularly quick or agile, he's just clean and works harder than the rest. Highlighted by a 56 possession game this season.

66. Sydney - Nick O'Kearney (182cm, 71kg midfielder from Calder Cannons)

I feel like I'm too harsh on O'Kearney, but I'm just not seeing it with him. He's a good midfielder and has gone through the Academy system, so there's obviously something there. Fairly consistent, decent kick and works hard. But he has no real elite attributes for mine, and that's a problem at 180cm. I've seen better players make it through to the rookie draft. A weak draft group may help his cause.

67. Sydney - Mitch King (199cm, 90kg ruckman from Murray Bushrangers)

Like most being taken at this point, King wouldn't even be guaranteed to be a rookie selection but he's one who intrigues me. A ruckman who can go forward, not many 18 year old rucks get drafted so he is up against it. An injury history interrupting his season doesn't help either. But his tapwork is good, and it's his marking that gives him a leg up over some other prospects. You need to be able to take a mark in the forward half to make it as a ruckman these days.

68. North Melbourne - Jacob Ballard (186cm, 83kg midfielder from Peel Thunder)

Former Fremantle rookie, debuted in the final round but was delisted at the end of the season - more of a mutual thing if anything, too good to waste away in the WAFL but just couldn't force his way into the Fremantle midfield. I've liked him since he was an 18 year old. He's a ready made inside midfielder, with very good hands in close. Racks up the touches every week, someone will give him a second chance for sure.

69. Fremantle - Jack Firns (194cm, 90kg defender from Oakleigh Chargers)

A solid tall defensive prospect is Firns, he's just gone about his business without much fuss this year. Did a decent job on Schache earlier in the year. More of a stopper, he'll need to develop a bit of a more well rounded game to become more than a backup. But with his commitment and attack on the ball, there's no reason to think he couldn't. He won't give up without a fight, that's for sure.

70. West Coast - Davin Ferreira (174cm, 68kg forward from Wanderers)

The small forward from the NT moved down to SA to board and play football this year, and had a remarkable start to SANFL League football. Very quick and skillful, unfortunately he'll be out injured for the rest of this year and some of next. Ferreira will probably be a 50/50 rookie chance, but he's got real talent and I could easily see him outperform Rioli from this draft.

71. Hawthorn - Matthew Allen (193cm, 97kg forward from Glenelg)

Some people just want no part of Matthew Allen, but I think he has lots to offer at the next level. It's just a matter of whether he can develop any one area to an elite level, or if he remains a jack of all trades. He can lead from the goalsquare, run all day from CHF or even play through the midfield. Doesn't have the ideal size to be a true key forward, but a handy option like a Tom Lynch from the Crows nonetheless.

72. St Kilda - Greg Clark (193cm, 82kg midfielder from Subiaco)

A bit of a weird one is Clark, I really have no idea where he'll be drafted. His size could see him go earlier, but he could just as easily drop. It will be interesting to watch. Just based on what he could become, I generally have him higher but he's fallen right down here. His kicking can be a bit off at times, he doesn't have a good action and seems a bit too relaxed when he does dispose of. He plays tall for a midfielder though, which is what I like.

 

[Wizard17]

Great to see your thread up mate

Brayden Fiorini is one to really keep an eye on got two 30 plus disposal games so far this year and his kicking skills are elite.

 

[RedmanWasHere]

Consider this thread subbed.

Hoping Essendon get one of Schache or Weideman.

 

[BlackGun1]

If I didn't rate him, he wouldn't be at #21. My ranking is based a little on my own preferences for a certain player type - so the bigger bodied midfielder that Fremantle love so much, and the inevitable prioritisation of the top tier key position players. As well as how I rate players and their future prospects as AFL players. I consider Keays to be a relatively safe bet at being a good player, others I see as potentially great players. It has to be said that I haven't seen any of his games this year in the NEAFL, I'm not going to pretend I have. So there is every chance that once I see him play at the Championships and can judge his improvement for myself, that he'll climb the rankings. But at this point, I consider the hype around the Academy system to be somewhat inflating his draft stock.

I somewhat agree with your sentiment Chris, this has happened with many of our academy guys in the past. But what is it specifically, maybe in terms of weaknesses, that prevents Keays from being in that upper echelon in your eyes? Statstically speaking he is right up there in that top 10 bracket at the moment. (Stats arent everything I know)

 

[Chris25]

I somewhat agree with your sentiment Chris, this has happened with many of our academy guys in the past. But what is it specifically, maybe in terms of weaknesses, that prevents Keays from being in that upper echelon in your eyes? Statstically speaking he is right up there in that top 10 bracket at the moment. (Stats arent everything I know)

I don't really see any major weaknesses that will hold him back, more just that I think other players may have more development to come. So while Keays may have the numbers on his side at the moment, I think others could go past him in the next few years. I see him as a bit like Steele Sidebottom - a fine player who'll have a quality 10 year career, but more of a good supporting player as opposed to a top level talent that you build around.

You mention the stats, and I think his disposal efficiency is one that doesn't necessarily tell the full picture. Keays is a good user and generally smart with his decisions, but he doesn't hurt the opposition as much as he could. And with his possessions, I tend to consider him to be quantity over quality. At Fremantle, Micharl Barlow and David Mundy will often finish with the same number of possessions. But who is more damaging? Otherwise, just little things like his average athleticism and top line speed. He's a good runner and works hard to link up offensively, but wont be splitting packs open. Obviously that's not the type of player he is, but it's still worth a mention. I hear his clearance game is improving though, so I'm looking forward to seeing that development this year for Queensland. I'm 100% sure he'll be an All Australian and quite possibly the Division 2 MVP at the Championships, but I'll be looking past the statistics to see how he has progressed since last year in a few key areas.

Having said all that, I've essentially just compared him to Steele Sidebottom and Michael Barlow. I imagine Brisbane would quite like one of them in their side.

 

[FreeAgent1]

I thought I'd go the big board approach before the Championships starts, then change to an actual mock draft. Like always, my rankings tend to differ from others because I value different types and attributes. I've added some comments after each group, which helps to explain that a bit...

The Big Board

1. Jacob Weitering (195cm, 90kg defender from Dandenong)
2. Callum Mills (186cm, 73kg midfielder from North Shore)
3. Callum Ah Chee (182cm, 71kg midfielder from South Fremantle)
4. Darcy Tucker (184cm, 78kg midfielder from North Ballarat)
5. Aaron Francis (192cm, 89kg utility from West Adelaide)
6. Darcy Parish (181cm, 72kg midfielder from Geelong)
7. Greg Clark (193cm, 82kg midfielder from Subiaco)
8. Ryan Burton (190cm, 79kg forward from North Adelaide)
9. Harley Balic (186cm, 80kg midfielder from Sandringham)
10. Stephen Tahana (183cm, 79kg defender from North Adelaide)

I initially started this list a few weeks ago, but only got around to finishing it today. And I wish I had have gotten it out earlier, because there have been a few media reports on Weitering lately which have taken the shine off me rating him as the #1 prospect in the draft. But he's the prospect to beat at the moment, and he is the perfect defender for the modern game. Rounding out the top 3 is the best midfielder in Mills and arguably the most talented player in Ah Chee. Anyone who has followed my drafts over the years will know how highly I regard players of Ah Chee's like. So it shouldn't be any surprise to see him up this high.

Just a quick comment re: mids accumulators vs disposal efficiency. Mills and o'Kearney are two of the highest accumulators, but who is the best user of the ball (espeically by foot), as i feel this has been the deciding factor in mids rankings recently.

Also- massively agree re:academy Hype, 1-2 max in top 10 on draft day not the top 5 picks as sprouted by those with an agenda in march

 

[RUNVS]

Just a quick comment re: mids accumulators vs disposal efficiency. Mills and o'Kearney are two of the highest accumulators, but who is the best user of the ball (espeically by foot), as i feel this has been the deciding factor in mids rankings recently.

Also- massively agree re:academy Hype, 1-2 max in top 10 on draft day not the top 5 picks as sprouted by those with an agenda in march

Also I think Mills is now 188cm, not 186cm.

 

[ROYAL EAGLE]

Chris good to see you back.

I have watched lots of Callum Ah Chee this year, he's a great talent.

But I have to say he will never be a midfielder, he will be a permanent forward.

Think a Mark LeCras crossed with Garlett from Melbourne.

He can head up field then run and bounce to goal like Gartlett.
Then can play like a mini full forward like LeCras.

His stoppage work is very poor, and gets pushed of the footy in the contest.

The two Jarrod's last year showed midfield ability last year consistently, Callum hasn't.

He's a natural forward.

 

[Chris25]

Chris good to see you back.

I have watched lots of Callum Ah Chee this year, he's a great talent.

But I have to say he will never be a midfielder, he will be a permanent forward.

Thanks for that RE. I'm probably being a little optimistic in regards to his midfield potential, although I'm hopeful for a decent showing at the Championships. Strictly as an outside midfielder though, one who will probably need to be fed the ball quite a bit admittedly.

Who would you suggest I look out for from WA this year? I must admit, I'm not too optimistic on WA's chances this year - both at the Championships and in the draft. To me, next year is looking quite strong. But I'm not seeing quite as much talent as usual for 2015. Do they have the KPPs to surprise me?

No Lachie Tardrew..do you see him getting picked up?

Not in my top 40 at least. He's not one of the underaged kids I took much notice of last year, although he's had a good start to the year. If he keeps going the way he has, I imagine he'd be in the frame later on. Seems to have improved his work rate and running ability, as well as his disposal - based on early season matches at least. Best suited to maybe a back flank, I'd say? Needs to bulk up though, although most kids are in the same boat there.

 

[RedmanWasHere]

Chris.

Is this the latest you've gone in a year to start this thread?

Also, how many picks do you reckon Essendon will take into this year's draft?

 

[Chris25]

Chris.

Is this the latest you've gone in a year to start this thread?

Also, how many picks do you reckon Essendon will take into this year's draft?

It's later than I've gone in previous years, but that's more just because I've been busy. And a little lazy.

Not sure how many picks particular clubs will take. It's probably not the draft pool that you look at and delist extra players to load up on picks. It seems a reasonably poor year for both Vic Metro and WA, which will no doubt weaken the overall depth of talent. So you'll probably get a few clubs going on with just the minimum of three selections.

 

[HBF]

For what it's worth, I've seen equal coverage of the Victorian and South Australian prospects. Less of the Western Australian kids, which is why they don't feature too heavily. Although their crop for 2016 looks a little stronger than this year anyway. And minimal of the Tasmanians and NT players, but I like to include one or two from those states anyway for fun.

Hey Chris, just wondering where you see Jack Silvagni at this stage?
I've seen him a couple of times this year for the Chargers and he looked pretty good. Just not sure how he stacks up against the rest of the draft pool.

 

[ROYAL EAGLE]

Thanks for that RE. I'm probably being a little optimistic in regards to his midfield potential, although I'm hopeful for a decent showing at the Championships. Strictly as an outside midfielder though, one who will probably need to be fed the ball quite a bit admittedly.

Who would you suggest I look out for from WA this year? I must admit, I'm not too optimistic on WA's chances this year - both at the Championships and in the draft. To me, next year is looking quite strong. But I'm not seeing quite as much talent as usual for 2015. Do they have the KPPs to surprise me?
.

Hi Chris

There's a few i have been keen on
Jordan Snadden HFF moves wells kicks well has good pace.
Nothing outstanding a no real weaknesses a bit like Jackson Nelson
Needs to improve his production and spend some more time in the middle.
WCE are particularly keen on him training with club twice this year.
Mitch Antonio HFF good size skinny but putting on weight, great skills xfactor,
makes things happen.
Hincliffe cricket or football his choice should choose cricket Justin Langer loves him,
but been told loves footy better.
Champman Jones the Dean Kent of wa colts this year, dominates clearances kicks goals racks up possessions.
Bailey Rogers another high production.
Levi Ridely xfactor midfielder can be breathtaking.

Next year underage group looks outstanding, WA could have its best year for draft numbers that year.
Although the academy side may struggle for kp depth.

 

[Diehardbomber]

I thought I'd go the big board approach before the Championships starts, then change to an actual mock draft. Like always, my rankings tend to differ from others because I value different types and attributes. I've added some comments after each group, which helps to explain that a bit...

The Big Board

1. Jacob Weitering (195cm, 90kg defender from Dandenong)
2. Callum Mills (186cm, 73kg midfielder from North Shore)
3. Callum Ah Chee (182cm, 71kg midfielder from South Fremantle)
4. Darcy Tucker (184cm, 78kg midfielder from North Ballarat)
5. Aaron Francis (192cm, 89kg utility from West Adelaide)
6. Darcy Parish (181cm, 72kg midfielder from Geelong)
7. Greg Clark (193cm, 82kg midfielder from Subiaco)
8. Ryan Burton (190cm, 79kg forward from North Adelaide)
9. Harley Balic (186cm, 80kg midfielder from Sandringham)
10. Stephen Tahana (183cm, 79kg defender from North Adelaide)

I initially started this list a few weeks ago, but only got around to finishing it today. And I wish I had have gotten it out earlier, because there have been a few media reports on Weitering lately which have taken the shine off me rating him as the #1 prospect in the draft. But he's the prospect to beat at the moment, and he is the perfect defender for the modern game. Rounding out the top 3 is the best midfielder in Mills and arguably the most talented player in Ah Chee. Anyone who has followed my drafts over the years will know how highly I regard players of Ah Chee's like. So it shouldn't be any surprise to see him up this high.

Otherwise, do you sense a trend in the players I've listed here? The majority are big and can play multiple positions. I consider Francis every bit as good as Matthew Scharenberg, and he can also play down back, through the midfield and up forward. He's the complete player in my book. And with a strong season, I could see Clark as being the player that every club wants. It's all about tall midfielders at the moment, and he's the pick of the 2015 crop for mine.

The two who wont go this early come November are Burton and Tahana, but everyone knows how much I love my South Australians. Injury is the only thing that will hold Burton back, and I rate him as the best pure forward in the draft. While for the past two years, I've said Tahana is the best defensive player I've seen come through the underaged ranks. I see no reason why he wont be a 200 game player, just not the most eye catching in the draft.

11. Charlie Curnow (191cm, 95kg forward from Geelong)
12. Jacob Hopper (186cm, 82kg midfielder from North Ballarat)
13. Keiran Agius (187cm, 84kg forward from North Adelaide)
14. Rhys Mathieson (185cm, 79kg midfielder from Geelong)
15. Josh Dunkley (189cm, 85kg midfielder from Gippsland Power)
16. Luke Partington (180cm, 75kg midfielder from Norwood)
17. Josh Schache (199cm, 96kg forward from Murray Bushrangers)
18. Nick O'Kearney (181cm, 71kg midfielder from Calder Cannons)
19. Ryan Clarke (186cm, 84kg midfielder from Eastern Ranges)
20. Sam Weideman (196cm, 91kg forward from Eastern Ranges)

A lot of talk about father son picks and Academy players this year with Hopper, Dunkley and Keays all available and talk of them being the best players in the draft. I personally think that's a bit of an overreaction, designed to make a point about the bidding system - hence why Hopper and Dunkley are in the 10-15 range, with Keays heading up the next group at 21 overall. Good players though, and their clubs will be happy to have them.

Couple of key forwards in Weideman and Schache appearing here, neither have really set the world on fire yet and will want to impress at the Championships. But they have the size and strength that automatically puts them on the board, with Curnow having the better peformances and standing out with his athleticism. The other forward is Agius, a supremely talented half forward and goal kicking machine. He needs to improve his fitness, because being able to push up into the middle is what will take his game to the next level.

And rounding out the top 20 are some more midfielders. With a good balance of style and substance between the likes of Partington, Clark and O'Kearney.

21. Ben Keays (183cm, 78kg midfielder from Morningside)
22. Thomas Cole (185cm, 76kg midfielder from Bendigo Pioneers)
23. Jordan Dawson (188cm, 80kg forward from Sturt)
24. Sam Skinner (197cm, 96kg defender from Gippsland Power)
25. Tim Sullivan (199cm, 90kg ruckman from Glenelg)
26. James Parsons (189cm, 79kg midfielder from Eastern Ranges)
27. Kade Stewart (180cm, 67kg midfielder from South Fremantle)
28. Maris Olekalns (180cm, 70kg midfielder from North Adelaide)
29. Harry McKay (200cm, 85kg forward from Gippsland Power)
30. Jake Sushames (185cm, 65kg midfielder from North Launceston)

The draft really starts to open up after the top 20, and as always my preference goes towards size. Only three of the ten players listed are under 185cm - with Stewart a hard but small player, and Olekalns a classy player on the outside. The rest are tall and versatile, and although I have him listed at #26 I do quite like Parsons. While Dawson is one who has come onto the radar late this year, he reminds me a bit of the Murdoch brothers.

What will no doubt please people are the numbers of talls I'm still talking about. Sullivan is an athletic and versatile ruckman, and Skinner a well performed key defender with the ability to go forward. McKay has been a surprise packet for 2015 though, with some very encouraging performances early in the season as a key forward.

31. Dylan Atkins (199cm, 88kg ruckman from Sandringham)
32. Callum Moore (193cm, 85kg forward from Calder Cannons)
33. Will Snelling (177cm, 68kg midfielder from West Adelaide)
34. Kieran Collins (193cm, 94kg defender from Dandenong Stingrays)
35. Campbell Wildman (186cm, 75kg midfielder from Sturt)
36. Matthew Nunn (180cm, 75kg midfielder from Norwood)
37. Aidyn Johnson (184cm, 75kg midfielder from Bendigo Pioneers)
38. Jade Gresham (177cm, 74kg midfielder from Northern Knights)
39. Riley Bonner (187cm, 75kg utility from West Adelaide)
40. Michael Hagan (174cm, 65kg midfielder from Darwin)

The other thing people may remember about my drafts, is that I like to include a player from every state in my first attempt. So Sushames from Tasmania and Hagan from the Northern Territory have made it in, although Hagan is a talented little player so it's not just a token selection.

Otherwise, I can only ignore the 180cm and under players for so long. Gresham, Nunn and Snelling are all racking up the touches - with the two South Australians having played senior football in the SANFL. But that doesn't mean I wont still prioritise taller project players, like Wildman and Bonner.

And watch out for Callum Moore on his return from injury. The 19 year old impressed in the preseason before injurying himself, and I have a sneaking suspicion could be a bit of a bolter this year. Along with Dylan Atkins, who perhaps isn't one of the more highly regarded ruckmen at the moment but shows promise with his basketball background.

Chris25 watching Friday nights SA state trial v Norwood I'd reckon there'd been some movement on your list?

 

[Chris25]

Hey Chris, just wondering where you see Jack Silvagni at this stage?
I've seen him a couple of times this year for the Chargers and he looked pretty good. Just not sure how he stacks up against the rest of the draft pool.

I like the little I've seen of him, only one of his TAC Cup games this year though - so maybe I wont be able to give the most informed opinion. Ideally he'd be a touch taller, but you can't do much about that. He makes up for that though with his confidence, seems good above his head and attacks the ball. I need to see more though, hopefully he gets some games at the Championships.

Chris25 watching Friday nights SA state trial v Norwood I'd reckon there'd been some movement on your list?

At a guess, I'd say you'd be talking about Keiran Agius? He's had a quiet start to the year, by his standards at least. And I hear he wasn't particularly impressive the other night. I'm not too fussed at this stage though. He'll look pretty average at times, but could easily come out the next week and kick a bag. Will he be the 13th player taken in the draft? I doubt it. But is he the 13th most talented player? Quite possibly.

Otherwise, Partington and Nunn could easily climb my rankings. And Bonner is the other one, I like him across half back. So a good Championships could see him push up the board.

 

[Diehardbomber]

I like the little I've seen of him, only one of his TAC Cup games this year though - so maybe I wont be able to give the most informed opinion. Ideally he'd be a touch taller, but you can't do much about that. He makes up for that though with his confidence, seems good above his head and attacks the ball. I need to see more though, hopefully he gets some games at the Championships.



At a guess, I'd say you'd be talking about Keiran Agius? He's had a quiet start to the year, by his standards at least. And I hear he wasn't particularly impressive the other night. I'm not too fussed at this stage though. He'll look pretty average at times, but could easily come out the next week and kick a bag. Will he be the 13th player taken in the draft? I doubt it. But is he the 13th most talented player? Quite possibly.

Otherwise, Partington and Nunn could easily climb my rankings. And Bonner is the other one, I like him across half back. So a good Championships could see him push up the board.

Agree

 

[Zach Package]

Where do we reckon Burton falls on the scale of Jake Stringer to Josh Scott? Undersized full forward or does he have the ability to get around enough to make it? Between him being from SA and having the broken leg last year I've seen bugger all of him, but someone that kicks goals and can draw the ball on the lead sounds intriguing

 

[menzel case]

awesome read up chris25.. quick question.. how do you rate the quality of this year's national draft eligible (so not including the academy or father sons) top 3 or 5 prospects in comparison to your average draft?

as a carlton supporter, this is about all i have to look forward to and from reading other threads i get the impression the top end talent this year isnt tipped to be as good as most drafts...

 

[mattyc75]

Chris good to see you back.

I have watched lots of Callum Ah Chee this year, he's a great talent.

But I have to say he will never be a midfielder, he will be a permanent forward.

Think a Mark LeCras crossed with Garlett from Melbourne.

He can head up field then run and bounce to goal like Gartlett.
Then can play like a mini full forward like LeCras.

His stoppage work is very poor, and gets pushed of the footy in the contest.

The two Jarrod's last year showed midfield ability last year consistently, Callum hasn't.

He's a natural forward.

Gday RE
I have seen you write on the eagles board that you would like the eagles to pick up ah chee.If we aren't successful in chasing coniglio or any other potential top line mids do you think it would be wise to take someone that you think has no midfield potential or do his talents outweigh our need for mids?

 

[ROYAL EAGLE]

Gday RE
I have seen you write on the eagles board that you would like the eagles to pick up ah chee.If we aren't successful in chasing coniglio or any other potential top line mids do you think it would be wise to take someone that you think has no midfield potential or do his talents outweigh our need for mids?

We need a small forward like him.
He may not be a midfield bet, but your looking at a elite small forward.
He has natural forward talent along with his speed and skill.

 

[Chris25]

Where do we reckon Burton falls on the scale of Jake Stringer to Josh Scott? Undersized full forward or does he have the ability to get around enough to make it? Between him being from SA and having the broken leg last year I've seen bugger all of him, but someone that kicks goals and can draw the ball on the lead sounds intriguing

Burton is much closer to Stringer than Scott, although they're not particularly similar as players. I was never a fan of Scott, he was hard working and a productive player but lacked pure talent and AFL level ability. Burton can be a game changer like Stringer, he's a little like Fyfe - as a forward only. Hopefully his leg fully heals, and even if he doesn't play a single minute of football this year, I'd still take a chance on him.

awesome read up chris25.. quick question.. how do you rate the quality of this year's national draft eligible (so not including the academy or father sons) top 3 or 5 prospects in comparison to your average draft?

as a carlton supporter, this is about all i have to look forward to and from reading other threads i get the impression the top end talent this year isnt tipped to be as good as most drafts...

It's a lot easier to judge after the Championships, at the moment I don't think it's the greatest draft of all time. The first round is all reasonably even, possibly lacking in game changers like in previous years. The fact that I consider a key defender to be the best player in the draft says a lot, and then the next best is an Academy player. The top 5 from last year would all be a strong chance at being the top 5 picked again this year.

 

[Zach Package]

Burton is much closer to Stringer than Scott, although they're not particularly similar as players. I was never a fan of Scott, he was hard working and a productive player but lacked pure talent and AFL level ability. Burton can be a game changer like Stringer, he's a little like Fyfe - as a forward only. Hopefully his leg fully heals, and even if he doesn't play a single minute of football this year, I'd still take a chance on him.

Yeah Scott was just the first point of comparison that came to mind in terms of size. We could really go in any direction with this draft, be it a forward, tallish defender or a mid, but I feel like another goal kicker should take priority because it's actively costing us games at the moment.

Shache and Wiedeman might be taller but I question how they fit what we've already got, so someone that's smaller and more mobile but can still have a presence in the air and on the ground might work better.