SCPaige
Team Captain
Pick 1: St. Kilda – Christian Petracca
Position: Medium forward/midfielder
Height: 186 cm, Weight: 92 kg, DOB: 04/01/1996
Club: Eastern Ranges
Projected draft range: 1-3
Player comparison: Dustin Martin/Josh P Kennedy
The most coveted prospect from the class of 2014, Christian Petracca has won just about everything this year, including the Larke Medal, Metro’s MVP and an All Australian jumper. Petracca, a strong-bodied, powerful, quick, goal-kicking midfielder is the complete package, and would be odds-on favourite to play round one, 2015. His development and progression into a genuine midfielder as opposed to a forward flanker is a credit to his character, discipline and appetite for hard work. He’s accepted challenges placed in front of him over the past 24 months and has gone above and beyond in answering those demands. Petracca features in the top one-percent in the country for his agility and speed, rating elite in his tackling, contested-ball, clearances and goals kicked by a midfielder. Petracca is now in the gun to be taken as the first selection, with one particular TAC Cup talent manager calling him a “once in a generation player that will be talking about for decades”.
Player Update: Labelled by one talent manager as “light years ahead” of everyone else in the draft. Also named in the TAC Cup team of the year on a forward flank.
Pick 2: Melbourne – Angus Brayshaw
Position: Midfielder
Height: 187 cm, Weight: 87 kg, DOB: 09/01/1996
Club: Sandringham Dragons
Projected draft range: 2-10
Player comparison: Sam Mitchell
Make no mistake about it, Angus Brayshaw is adored by Paul Roos. Should the Demons hold onto their first round pick, you can put the house on the Demons selecting Brayshaw – the son of Mark and nephew of James – with their very first selection. Brayshaw has his fans because what you see is what you get: he is a serious footballer who is professional in every aspect of his game. Brayshaw is a diligent trainer and preparer, and leaves no stone unturned in ensuring he ticks boxes in his recovery. From a footballing aspect, Brayshaw is tough and courageous, dominating clearances and wins his own ball. He can move forward to kick goals, and when he isn’t doing that, he’s setting them up or inspiring his teammates with acts of desperation. Despite being largely inside, Brayshaw rates in the upper echelon in metres gained, loving to take the game on by backing himself to break lines and fend off opponents. Likely to feature in a club’s leadership group within three years, the All Australian, AFL-AIS member and Dragons skipper will automatically improve Melbourne’s list alongside some very promising kids on Melbourne’s books.
Player Update: He suffered a nasty ankle injury in the semi-final last week against North Ballarat. Has been named to take on Oakleigh; expected to line up. Also named on-baller of the TAC Cup team of the year.
Pick 3: Greater Western Sydney - Jake Lever
Position: Key defender
Height: 192 cm, Weight: 84 kg, DOB: 05/03/1996
Club: Calder Cannons
Projected draft range: 3-15
Player comparison: Cale Hooker (more athletic)
Despite suffering a well-documented ACL tear in January, Jake Lever is still regarded as one of the most sought after defenders, who often plays taller than he appears. Lever has a nice balance in his game to offer a close-checking role, as well as providing an option to roll-off half back and set up play with his long and precise kick that often finds a target. He also adds a touch of mongrel to add to his aggression and physicality, and it’s a part of the game that he relishes as a defender. Put simply, he loves to niggle. Lever is at his best when he plays a free-wheeling role as a loose man behind the ball: his marking game is superb, as is his nous to read the play which is equally as impressive. For a tall guy, he moves well with ball in hand and isn’t afraid to move it on quickly, whether that be by offering a dashing run from defence, or letting go of a long, direct handball to clear the area.
Player Update: Lever has been enjoying full training at the Calder Cannons over the past month. Surprisingly was named last night in Calder’s preliminary final squad against Dandenong. Could make a surprise return either this week, or in next week’s final. Either way, will be rusty.
Pick 4: Brisbane - Patrick McCartin
Position: Key forward
Height: 193 cm, Weight: 95 kg, DOB: 19/04/1996
Club: Geelong Falcons
Projected draft range: 1-5
Player comparison: Jonathan Brown/Taylor Walker
It could turn out to be a dream scenario for the Lions, who’ve been super-keen on Paddy McCartin through the past 24 months. Unlike the majority of Brisbane’s current talls, McCartin is a genuine, old-fashioned full forward. He busts through packs, takes big contested grabs, inspires with his courage and is always the source of headaches for the opposition. He’d add the perfect dynamic to the beanpole, athletic and agile talls already at the club, and looms still very much in the frame for the number one pick. It was a frustrating year for Patrick McCartin who suffered niggles throughout the season that robbed him of a consistency and a clean run, all unfortunately coming at important times of the year. He was hampered by a quad complaint throughout the National Championships, and was struck down with an adductor strain in the qualifying final a fortnight ago. Ultimately, it meant he missed the semi-final, in which the Falcons bowed out in. When fully fit, McCartin is unstoppable: he’s an aerial threat and he demands the opposition’s best defender.
Pick 5: Western Bulldogs – Peter Wright
Position: Key forward/ruckman
Height: 203 cm, Weight: 102 kg, DOB: 08/09/1996
Club: Calder Cannons
Projected draft range: Top five
Player comparison: Kurt Tippett
The Bulldogs could also end up with their dream scenario with Peter Wright falling into their laps at pick five, which could very well happen. Either way, it’s a toss-up between him and fellow gun key position tall Paddy McCartin, which addresses a major need for the Dogs. Debate still surrounds what position Peter Wright is best suited to, given he rates among the very best both up forward and in the ruck. There aren’t many other talls who have the mobility and athleticism that Wright has: in particular, his marking and the monstrous purchase he gets on the footy when he kicks it is unlike most who’ve come through the system. Additionally, whilst his aggression has improved considerably, he has played some super impressive football in the past month. This was particularly evident in his 29 disposal, six mark, four goal haul against the Knights in round 18. His stand out attributes include rare depth and accuracy in his kicking, clean hands, athleticism and mobility. He is clean and inventive at ground level and looks his best playing a high-half forward role.
Player Update: He was named at full forward in the TAC Cup team of the year.
Pick 6: Carlton – Sam Durdin
Position: Key forward/defender
Height: 197 cm, Weight: 89 kg, DOB: 06/06/1996
Club: West Adelaide
Projected draft range: 5-15
Player comparison: Lachie Hansen/Ben Reid
An elite key defender, forward and a handy ruckman, Sam Durdin ticks every box and some more when it comes to his draft stocks. Despite his season starting slowly thanks to a thumb injury that ruled him out for 10 weeks, Durdin has come home with a wet sail, catapulting him back into initial top-five contention in the process. The key tall with terrific athleticism and game-reading abilities to match is the type of player a back-line can be built around. Coupled with his versatility to offer cameo appearances up forward, and an ability to pinch hit in the ruck, Durdin’s marking game typically defines him, as does his above average disposal efficiency. His rangy frame and long strides gives him a point of difference among his key-position peers, but his offensive game is terrifying when he is on song. You just get a bit of everything with Durdin, which makes a compelling statement of the overall player that he is.
Pick 7: Gold Coast – Jayden LaverdePosition: Midfielder/utility
Height: 189cm, Weight: 82kg, DOB: 12/04/1996
Club: Western Jets
Projected draft range 6-20
Player comparison: Jared Brennan (more consistent)
The Suns love Jayden Laverde, and why wouldn’t they? Laverde adds a serious point of difference and x-factor onto their list. The epitome of an athletic and speedy winger who can play every position well, Laverde is a sublime mover. He glides through the wings with poise and speed, and loves to cut through congestion with long strides where he can burst out from a contested situation and run the ball. Laverde is another tall midfielder with a thumping yet accurate kick, and is one of the more damaging players available in this year’s draft. His versatility is highly favoured, but he looks his best playing off half back and on a wing where he can use his marking game and endurance to cut games open.
Player Update: Named on the wing in the TAC Cup team of the year.
Pick 8: Collingwood – Darcy Moore
Position: Key forward/defender
Height: 199 cm, Weight: 93 kg, DOB: 25/01/1996
Club: Oakleigh Chargers
Projected draft range: Collingwood father-son
Player comparison: Jarryd Roughead
Collingwood fans will be hoping there’s enough top end talent to ward off the Blues and Bulldogs on bidding on Darcy Moore: however, those dreams appear farfetched. The prodigious tall talent who is regarded as future captain material is an incredibly mobile and athletic swingman, and a competitive beast at that. Moore has shown on numerous occasions he’s not shy about cracking in for a contested ball, and he is almost unstoppable in the air. Remarkably, he’s played stints through the midfield, with a rare knack to take possession of the ball beneath his knees, and use his breakaway pace over a few steps to break free from congestion. A contested marking monster who can kick bags up front or play lock-down roles in defence, Terry Wallace has named Moore “the best of the bigs” and Collingwood fans will enjoy watching the “Moore” era at Collingwood once again.
Player Update: Moore has been named at CHF in the TAC Cup team of the year.
Pick 9: Adelaide – Hugh Goddard
Position: Key forward/defender
Height: 196 cm, Weight: 93 kg, DOB: 24/08/1996
Club: Geelong Falcons
Projected draft range: 10-25
Player comparison: Jack Watts
Hugh Goddard’s last month of TAC Cup football has been super impressive. He’s had scalps on the likes of Darcy Moore (twice), and in between he’s been pushed forward where he’s had an impact. Despite this season being one which was largely quiet thanks to a new lock-down role in defence, Goddard has runs on the board and his football character is exceptional. Recruiters and scouts have been quick to talk about his return to top 10 calculations this week. With the bevy of key talls all in the frame for that selection, Goddard can hold his head high with his second half of the year. Athletically speaking, he is terrific and is still a premier swingman, who may or may not come at a bargain price this November. I’m a big wrap for both his ground level work and his marking game, while he also possesses a really nice, long penetrating kick that often finds targets. He’s quick off the mark, and boasts athleticism and a big leap that enables him to play a role at either end of the ground.
Player Update: Bolting, bolting, and bolting. Michael Turner believes Goddard has shot right back up into top 10 – and possibly top five – contention.
Pick 10: West Coast – Jarrod Pickett
Position: Midfielder/utility
Height: 179 cm, Weight: 76 kg, DOB: 18/08/1996
Club: South Fremantle
Projected draft range: 6-15
Player comparison: Lewis Jetta (more consistent)
Jarrod Pickett’s acquisition would suit the Eagles to a tee from a list management perspective. Pickett adds speed, flair and energy and is perhaps the missing link in the West Coast midfield. He is electrifying, and it’s that trait that sets him apart and allows him break open a game with both his run and carry and his nous to take the game on. Best described as a tear-away, Pickett has the ability to break open a game and swing momentum into his team’s favour, having the ability to kick important goals in succession to stamp his authority on the game. Offering a handy bag of tricks, Pickett is more than adept to winning his own ball and featuring in the clearances. He is every bit a match-winner who’ll inject instant class.
Pick 11: Richmond – Paul Ahern
Position: Midfielder/forward
Height: 181 cm, Weight: 77 kg, DOB: 01/08/1996
Club: Calder Cannons
Projected draft range: 5-15
Player comparison: Dale Thomas
Coming from a long way back, Paul Ahern has become a busy midfielder with a knack of making things happen when he’s around. His vision and awareness through traffic is top-drawer, as are his foot skills. He finds targets short or deep, and importantly can do either off a step. He has great spatial awareness, which – coupled with incredible explosive speed and agility – makes him such a dangerous player with ball in hand. Around the packs he has clean hands and an uncanny ability to slip out of tackles and take off from a stoppage. He is lethal around goal and kicks goals on the burst, with his pace and link up work the focal points of his game. He is an important avenue to goal with score involvements and assists, being Vic Metro’s highest in both statistics. Ahern averaged 7.8 contested possessions, 3.2 inside 50s and three clearances in the carnival at 72.8 per cent disposal efficiency. His gut running and flair will feature prominently in this year’s draft. Since returning to the TAC Cup, Ahern has averaged 15 disposals, 1.5 marks, four tackles and a goal a game.
Player Update: Ahern featured on the interchange in the TAC Cup team of the year.
Pick 12: North Melbourne – Caleb Marchbank
Position: Defender/forward
Height: 193 cm, Weight: 85 kg, DOB: 7/12/1996
Club: Murray Bushrangers
Projected draft range: 5-20
Player comparison: Harry Taylor/Jarrad Waite
The key position swingman has caught the eye of many teams to find his draft stocks rapidly rising. Arguably the best intercept mark in the TAC Cup competition, Marchbank’s rise to first round calculations is hardly difficult to fathom. He plays predominantly in defence, where his ability to read the ball in flight whether under pressure or not is exceptional. Meanwhile, his eagerness to rebound from the back half makes him a real playmaker on the counter attack. Marchbank could be best described as not too dissimilar to Jarrad Waite: he backs himself to win a contested mark at either end of the ground, he can mark over his head when he’s expecting contact, and uses his strength in his kicking to set up further afield. He keeps opposition forwards quiet, whilst also having a big influence on the game himself. Given his athleticism, Marchbank could really develop into a prototype utility, playing on a wing, half-forward or half-back to fill any need required.
Player Update: Marchbank suffered a minor knee injury that required only minor surgery, but he will be ready for preseason. However, he will not test at the draft combine.
Pick 13: Port Adelaide – Liam Duggan
Position: Defender/midfielder
Height: 183 cm, Weight: 76 kg, DOB: 11/12/1996
Club: Western Jets
Projected draft range: 10-25
Player comparison: Steele Sidebottom
A bubbly character off-field, the ‘baby-faced assassin’ is another draft prospect that is gifted in terms of poise, hurt-factor and game-winning attributes. Duggan won the Ben Mitchell medal for this year’s AFL-AIS intake, and has an arsenal of weaponry that far exceeds most in this year’s draft crop. Playing in an array of positions, Duggan offers get-up-and-go from half back, is particularly dangerous around the stoppages and loves to run and carry with his line-breaking speed. The talented left footer has also shown he’s dangerous and effective around goal, kicking three final-quarter goals against the Northern Knights earlier in the year off just four disposals in a come-from-behind win. Duggan’s penetrating kick is his primary asset, but his ability to read the ball well in the air – along with both good vision and speed – suggests his best position will eventually be situated in defence. Despite his slim build, Duggan can win his own ball and tackles strongly. Coupled with his rebounding and attacking style of play complemented by his long left foot, Duggan will be highly rated among recruiters at year’s end.
Player Update: Duggan was named on a wing in the TAC Cup team of the year.
Pick 14: Geelong – Kyle Langford
Position: Utility
Height: 190 cm, Weight: 73kg, DOB: 01/12/1996
Club: Northern Knights
Projected draft range: 25 – 40
Player comparison: Marcus Bontempelli
A really nifty player who gives you a bit of everything, Kyle Langford is a versatile third tall type who can be utilised at either end of the ground, having shot up the draft rankings dramatically over the past month. Langford started the season in hot form, bagging 11 goals in his first three games for Northern, having been utilised as a key tall who pushed high and hard up the wings. He averaged 18 disposals, eight marks and five tackles during that period, resulting in Vic Metro selection. Although best known for completely shutting down Tom Lamb in round one of the carnival, Langford was used in defence as a third tall, working up to the wings. In that time, his clean hands, agility, athleticism and his will to create drive from defence were on full display. His tackling makes up for his lack of ability to win the contested ball, whilst he puts himself in dangerous positions to mark, whether that’s cutting off a forward entry or pushing hard up the ground to mark on a wing. He is quite prolific in the air, and has shown enough to suggest that he could develop nicely into a rangy winger that can drop back or forward when required. He does share similarities to Marcus Bontempelli, though he hasn’t shown the contested edge Bontempelli has just yet. A very, very highly regarded player that’s pushed into the top 20.
Player Update: Lock him in for the top 20: he’s the bolted of the draft, and is potentially another Stephen Wells special awaiting the Cats. Named on the interchange in the TAC Cup team of the year.
Pick 15: Gold Coast – Lachie Weller
Position: Midfielder
Height: 181 cm, Weight: 71 kg, DOB: 23/02/1996
Club: Broadbeach
Projected draft range: 6-15
Player comparison: Dayne Beams
Incredibly underrated and by far one of the most polished kicks of the draft, Lachie Weller’s outside polish will address the need for speed and outside flair for the Suns. A brilliant decision maker and a player that goes about it with a certain flair, Weller has been part of Gold Coast’s Academy. However, he is ineligible to be selected by them in the bidding process, given he hasn’t resided in Queensland long enough to warrant a zone selection. Weller is arguably the most well-rounded and refined midfielder in this year’s draft crop. The medium-sized midfielder wins his own ball on the inside, and can hurt the opposition on the outside. An exciting speedster that is pure silk, Weller makes good decisions with the ball in hand: however, it was his work-ethic, gut-running and efficient link up play that dominated the National Championships in division two.
Pick 16: Fremantle – Jordan De Goey
Position: Midfielder/utility
Height: 187 cm, Weight: 82 kg, DOB: 15/3/1996
Club: Oakleigh Chargers
Projected draft range: 10-20
Player comparison: Unique
The cool Jordan De Goey made a fistful of his opportunity throughout the carnival, stamping himself as a favourite among draft experts. De Goey, a tough on-baller with a polished outside game, oozes class and x-factor: on top of that, he is the type of player who his teammates draw inspiration from. You need not look any further than his moment against Western Australia. De Goey hit an opponent player at full tilt with sheer ferocity, knocking the ball to ground level, before cracking in with a second effort to win the ball back and kick a goal from outside 50 off two steps. The amount of energy in that piece of play personified exactly the type of player he is, and why clubs are salivating over him as a draft prospect later this year. De Goey has an impeccable sense of timing, a strong set of hands in close, and great ability overhead. He has a deep, penetrating kick that is dangerous around the arcs, and he runs through the middle where he can rack up a number of disposals in quick succession. He is a competitive beast who – although physical – has a sense of finesse and an array of sublime attributes that make him a unique prospect in this year’s draft.
Player Update: De Goey suffered a foot injury in the first qualifying final in the opening quarter. Scans have cleared him of any major damage, and he will line up this week for Oakleigh in the preliminary final if he gets through a final fitness test.
Pick 17: Sydney – Isaac Heeney
Position: Midfielder
Height: 186 cm, Weight: 82 kg, DOB: 05/05/1996
Club: Cardiff
Projected draft range: Sydney academy selection
Player comparison: Jobe Watson
Isaac Heeney does just about everything and is arguably the draft’s most complete midfielder. A ball winner and game changer, Heeney is a high-production, energetic midfielder who rarely wastes a disposal. He throws himself at the ball without regard, purely through his commitment to the cause. He is quick, agile and nimble, with the ability to win his own ball from a stoppage and break the lines means he has plenty of hurt factor. Unlike other midfielders with similar attributes, Heeney has composure under pressure, a deft touch and an ability to nurse the ball to where it needs to go, whether by hand or by foot. The high-production midfielder is much more than just a ball magnet: it’s his appetite to tackle and work defensively that sets him apart. It would be very plausible that Heeney would debut in his first season, which reflects how much of a talent the Swans consider him to be. Heeney averaged 23 disposals, three marks, 4.3 tackles, and five clearances at 73 per cent disposal efficiency on his way to winning the division two best and fairest medal.
Player Update: Despite playing just the four games, named in the TAC Cup team of the year on the interchange.
Pick 18: Hawthorn – Corey Ellis
Position: Midfielder/defender
Height: 185 cm, Weight: 76 kg, DOB: 09/10/1996
Club: Western Jets
Projected draft range: 10-25
Player comparison: Andrew Gaff
The type of player who just makes things happen, Corey Ellis is a productive and busy midfielder who can really have a say in the outcome of a game. The blue collar midfielder is easily underrated, merely because there’s nothing flashy about him. He has an uncanny way of pulling off some unrealistic things with the way he can slip out of a tackle, spin through congestion, let fly of an elegant handball through the thickest of congestion and effortlessly kick the ball on either side of his body, regardless of the degree of difficulty. Ellis can really hit some tackles and win his own inside ball: however, he’s very much a playmaker. His marking around the ground is superb, as is the way he uses the ball going inside 50. He is a quality kick on both sides of his body, which is rare for a left footer. He has a great mix of inside and outside capabilities, and loves to get on his preferred left side where his slick ball use finds targets short or deep.
Player Update: He has suffered stress fracture in his foot, which he’d been playing on it for the season’s final weeks. Ellis – who was named on the back flank in the TAC Cup team of the year – won’t test at the combine.
Pick 19: Essendon – Jackson Nelson
Position: Defender/midfielder
Height: 187cm, Weight: 80kg, DOB: 15/03/1996
Club: Geelong Falcons
Projected draft range: 12-35
Player comparison: Nick Vlaustin
Best described as a rudder in defence, Jackson Nelson is a steely defender-cum-midfielder who relishes the hard side of the game. Not too dissimilar to Richmond’s Nick Vlastuin in his attack on the ball and the man, Nelson is a tackling machine who rates among the best for marks, contested possessions and pressure acts. On top of this, Nelson also has enough polish on the outside to operate at an average of 70 per cent disposal efficiency. Rated incredibly highly at the Geelong Falcons, Nelson doesn’t have romantic traits like a Paul Ahern or Jayden Laverde, but he is just as effective if not more well-rounded, doing so without fuss. Averaging 22 high-quality disposals in the TAC Cup, Nelson’s best traits include his work rate, his defensive pressure, repeat efforts, gut running and most obviously his tackling, at an average of 6.2 per game for the Falcons.
Pick 20: Greater Western Sydney – Brayden Maynard
Position: Forward
Height: 186cm, Weight: 88kg, DOB: 20/09/1996
Club: Sandringham Dragons
Projected draft range: 20-30
Player comparison: Ryan O’Keefe
Brayden Maynard is a slick utility type that does his best work off the packs with an ability to kick on either side of his body. The hard-nosed, balanced midfielder is somebody that is targeted by opposition teams to shut down, given his ability to quickly set up play and importantly stream forward to goal. He’s been utilised in an array of positions: however, he ultimately looms more of a forward type. However, with increased endurance and fitness, he has the potential to make the move into the midfield, whether permanently or as a rotation. Aside from his brilliant goal kicking, Maynard is an aerial specialist with strong hands in a contest, who also marks strongly around the ground. Although he isn’t a polished kick of the ball (operating at just 60 per cent disposal efficiency), he has a terrific base to work with, allowing a club to mould him into any type of role. He has been impressive so far during the Dragons’ finals campaign, featuring in the best on both occasions.
Position: Medium forward/midfielder
Height: 186 cm, Weight: 92 kg, DOB: 04/01/1996
Club: Eastern Ranges
Projected draft range: 1-3
Player comparison: Dustin Martin/Josh P Kennedy
The most coveted prospect from the class of 2014, Christian Petracca has won just about everything this year, including the Larke Medal, Metro’s MVP and an All Australian jumper. Petracca, a strong-bodied, powerful, quick, goal-kicking midfielder is the complete package, and would be odds-on favourite to play round one, 2015. His development and progression into a genuine midfielder as opposed to a forward flanker is a credit to his character, discipline and appetite for hard work. He’s accepted challenges placed in front of him over the past 24 months and has gone above and beyond in answering those demands. Petracca features in the top one-percent in the country for his agility and speed, rating elite in his tackling, contested-ball, clearances and goals kicked by a midfielder. Petracca is now in the gun to be taken as the first selection, with one particular TAC Cup talent manager calling him a “once in a generation player that will be talking about for decades”.
Player Update: Labelled by one talent manager as “light years ahead” of everyone else in the draft. Also named in the TAC Cup team of the year on a forward flank.
Pick 2: Melbourne – Angus Brayshaw
Position: Midfielder
Height: 187 cm, Weight: 87 kg, DOB: 09/01/1996
Club: Sandringham Dragons
Projected draft range: 2-10
Player comparison: Sam Mitchell
Make no mistake about it, Angus Brayshaw is adored by Paul Roos. Should the Demons hold onto their first round pick, you can put the house on the Demons selecting Brayshaw – the son of Mark and nephew of James – with their very first selection. Brayshaw has his fans because what you see is what you get: he is a serious footballer who is professional in every aspect of his game. Brayshaw is a diligent trainer and preparer, and leaves no stone unturned in ensuring he ticks boxes in his recovery. From a footballing aspect, Brayshaw is tough and courageous, dominating clearances and wins his own ball. He can move forward to kick goals, and when he isn’t doing that, he’s setting them up or inspiring his teammates with acts of desperation. Despite being largely inside, Brayshaw rates in the upper echelon in metres gained, loving to take the game on by backing himself to break lines and fend off opponents. Likely to feature in a club’s leadership group within three years, the All Australian, AFL-AIS member and Dragons skipper will automatically improve Melbourne’s list alongside some very promising kids on Melbourne’s books.
Player Update: He suffered a nasty ankle injury in the semi-final last week against North Ballarat. Has been named to take on Oakleigh; expected to line up. Also named on-baller of the TAC Cup team of the year.
Pick 3: Greater Western Sydney - Jake Lever
Position: Key defender
Height: 192 cm, Weight: 84 kg, DOB: 05/03/1996
Club: Calder Cannons
Projected draft range: 3-15
Player comparison: Cale Hooker (more athletic)
Despite suffering a well-documented ACL tear in January, Jake Lever is still regarded as one of the most sought after defenders, who often plays taller than he appears. Lever has a nice balance in his game to offer a close-checking role, as well as providing an option to roll-off half back and set up play with his long and precise kick that often finds a target. He also adds a touch of mongrel to add to his aggression and physicality, and it’s a part of the game that he relishes as a defender. Put simply, he loves to niggle. Lever is at his best when he plays a free-wheeling role as a loose man behind the ball: his marking game is superb, as is his nous to read the play which is equally as impressive. For a tall guy, he moves well with ball in hand and isn’t afraid to move it on quickly, whether that be by offering a dashing run from defence, or letting go of a long, direct handball to clear the area.
Player Update: Lever has been enjoying full training at the Calder Cannons over the past month. Surprisingly was named last night in Calder’s preliminary final squad against Dandenong. Could make a surprise return either this week, or in next week’s final. Either way, will be rusty.
Pick 4: Brisbane - Patrick McCartin
Position: Key forward
Height: 193 cm, Weight: 95 kg, DOB: 19/04/1996
Club: Geelong Falcons
Projected draft range: 1-5
Player comparison: Jonathan Brown/Taylor Walker
It could turn out to be a dream scenario for the Lions, who’ve been super-keen on Paddy McCartin through the past 24 months. Unlike the majority of Brisbane’s current talls, McCartin is a genuine, old-fashioned full forward. He busts through packs, takes big contested grabs, inspires with his courage and is always the source of headaches for the opposition. He’d add the perfect dynamic to the beanpole, athletic and agile talls already at the club, and looms still very much in the frame for the number one pick. It was a frustrating year for Patrick McCartin who suffered niggles throughout the season that robbed him of a consistency and a clean run, all unfortunately coming at important times of the year. He was hampered by a quad complaint throughout the National Championships, and was struck down with an adductor strain in the qualifying final a fortnight ago. Ultimately, it meant he missed the semi-final, in which the Falcons bowed out in. When fully fit, McCartin is unstoppable: he’s an aerial threat and he demands the opposition’s best defender.
Pick 5: Western Bulldogs – Peter Wright
Position: Key forward/ruckman
Height: 203 cm, Weight: 102 kg, DOB: 08/09/1996
Club: Calder Cannons
Projected draft range: Top five
Player comparison: Kurt Tippett
The Bulldogs could also end up with their dream scenario with Peter Wright falling into their laps at pick five, which could very well happen. Either way, it’s a toss-up between him and fellow gun key position tall Paddy McCartin, which addresses a major need for the Dogs. Debate still surrounds what position Peter Wright is best suited to, given he rates among the very best both up forward and in the ruck. There aren’t many other talls who have the mobility and athleticism that Wright has: in particular, his marking and the monstrous purchase he gets on the footy when he kicks it is unlike most who’ve come through the system. Additionally, whilst his aggression has improved considerably, he has played some super impressive football in the past month. This was particularly evident in his 29 disposal, six mark, four goal haul against the Knights in round 18. His stand out attributes include rare depth and accuracy in his kicking, clean hands, athleticism and mobility. He is clean and inventive at ground level and looks his best playing a high-half forward role.
Player Update: He was named at full forward in the TAC Cup team of the year.
Pick 6: Carlton – Sam Durdin
Position: Key forward/defender
Height: 197 cm, Weight: 89 kg, DOB: 06/06/1996
Club: West Adelaide
Projected draft range: 5-15
Player comparison: Lachie Hansen/Ben Reid
An elite key defender, forward and a handy ruckman, Sam Durdin ticks every box and some more when it comes to his draft stocks. Despite his season starting slowly thanks to a thumb injury that ruled him out for 10 weeks, Durdin has come home with a wet sail, catapulting him back into initial top-five contention in the process. The key tall with terrific athleticism and game-reading abilities to match is the type of player a back-line can be built around. Coupled with his versatility to offer cameo appearances up forward, and an ability to pinch hit in the ruck, Durdin’s marking game typically defines him, as does his above average disposal efficiency. His rangy frame and long strides gives him a point of difference among his key-position peers, but his offensive game is terrifying when he is on song. You just get a bit of everything with Durdin, which makes a compelling statement of the overall player that he is.
Pick 7: Gold Coast – Jayden LaverdePosition: Midfielder/utility
Height: 189cm, Weight: 82kg, DOB: 12/04/1996
Club: Western Jets
Projected draft range 6-20
Player comparison: Jared Brennan (more consistent)
The Suns love Jayden Laverde, and why wouldn’t they? Laverde adds a serious point of difference and x-factor onto their list. The epitome of an athletic and speedy winger who can play every position well, Laverde is a sublime mover. He glides through the wings with poise and speed, and loves to cut through congestion with long strides where he can burst out from a contested situation and run the ball. Laverde is another tall midfielder with a thumping yet accurate kick, and is one of the more damaging players available in this year’s draft. His versatility is highly favoured, but he looks his best playing off half back and on a wing where he can use his marking game and endurance to cut games open.
Player Update: Named on the wing in the TAC Cup team of the year.
Pick 8: Collingwood – Darcy Moore
Position: Key forward/defender
Height: 199 cm, Weight: 93 kg, DOB: 25/01/1996
Club: Oakleigh Chargers
Projected draft range: Collingwood father-son
Player comparison: Jarryd Roughead
Collingwood fans will be hoping there’s enough top end talent to ward off the Blues and Bulldogs on bidding on Darcy Moore: however, those dreams appear farfetched. The prodigious tall talent who is regarded as future captain material is an incredibly mobile and athletic swingman, and a competitive beast at that. Moore has shown on numerous occasions he’s not shy about cracking in for a contested ball, and he is almost unstoppable in the air. Remarkably, he’s played stints through the midfield, with a rare knack to take possession of the ball beneath his knees, and use his breakaway pace over a few steps to break free from congestion. A contested marking monster who can kick bags up front or play lock-down roles in defence, Terry Wallace has named Moore “the best of the bigs” and Collingwood fans will enjoy watching the “Moore” era at Collingwood once again.
Player Update: Moore has been named at CHF in the TAC Cup team of the year.
Pick 9: Adelaide – Hugh Goddard
Position: Key forward/defender
Height: 196 cm, Weight: 93 kg, DOB: 24/08/1996
Club: Geelong Falcons
Projected draft range: 10-25
Player comparison: Jack Watts
Hugh Goddard’s last month of TAC Cup football has been super impressive. He’s had scalps on the likes of Darcy Moore (twice), and in between he’s been pushed forward where he’s had an impact. Despite this season being one which was largely quiet thanks to a new lock-down role in defence, Goddard has runs on the board and his football character is exceptional. Recruiters and scouts have been quick to talk about his return to top 10 calculations this week. With the bevy of key talls all in the frame for that selection, Goddard can hold his head high with his second half of the year. Athletically speaking, he is terrific and is still a premier swingman, who may or may not come at a bargain price this November. I’m a big wrap for both his ground level work and his marking game, while he also possesses a really nice, long penetrating kick that often finds targets. He’s quick off the mark, and boasts athleticism and a big leap that enables him to play a role at either end of the ground.
Player Update: Bolting, bolting, and bolting. Michael Turner believes Goddard has shot right back up into top 10 – and possibly top five – contention.
Pick 10: West Coast – Jarrod Pickett
Position: Midfielder/utility
Height: 179 cm, Weight: 76 kg, DOB: 18/08/1996
Club: South Fremantle
Projected draft range: 6-15
Player comparison: Lewis Jetta (more consistent)
Jarrod Pickett’s acquisition would suit the Eagles to a tee from a list management perspective. Pickett adds speed, flair and energy and is perhaps the missing link in the West Coast midfield. He is electrifying, and it’s that trait that sets him apart and allows him break open a game with both his run and carry and his nous to take the game on. Best described as a tear-away, Pickett has the ability to break open a game and swing momentum into his team’s favour, having the ability to kick important goals in succession to stamp his authority on the game. Offering a handy bag of tricks, Pickett is more than adept to winning his own ball and featuring in the clearances. He is every bit a match-winner who’ll inject instant class.
Pick 11: Richmond – Paul Ahern
Position: Midfielder/forward
Height: 181 cm, Weight: 77 kg, DOB: 01/08/1996
Club: Calder Cannons
Projected draft range: 5-15
Player comparison: Dale Thomas
Coming from a long way back, Paul Ahern has become a busy midfielder with a knack of making things happen when he’s around. His vision and awareness through traffic is top-drawer, as are his foot skills. He finds targets short or deep, and importantly can do either off a step. He has great spatial awareness, which – coupled with incredible explosive speed and agility – makes him such a dangerous player with ball in hand. Around the packs he has clean hands and an uncanny ability to slip out of tackles and take off from a stoppage. He is lethal around goal and kicks goals on the burst, with his pace and link up work the focal points of his game. He is an important avenue to goal with score involvements and assists, being Vic Metro’s highest in both statistics. Ahern averaged 7.8 contested possessions, 3.2 inside 50s and three clearances in the carnival at 72.8 per cent disposal efficiency. His gut running and flair will feature prominently in this year’s draft. Since returning to the TAC Cup, Ahern has averaged 15 disposals, 1.5 marks, four tackles and a goal a game.
Player Update: Ahern featured on the interchange in the TAC Cup team of the year.
Pick 12: North Melbourne – Caleb Marchbank
Position: Defender/forward
Height: 193 cm, Weight: 85 kg, DOB: 7/12/1996
Club: Murray Bushrangers
Projected draft range: 5-20
Player comparison: Harry Taylor/Jarrad Waite
The key position swingman has caught the eye of many teams to find his draft stocks rapidly rising. Arguably the best intercept mark in the TAC Cup competition, Marchbank’s rise to first round calculations is hardly difficult to fathom. He plays predominantly in defence, where his ability to read the ball in flight whether under pressure or not is exceptional. Meanwhile, his eagerness to rebound from the back half makes him a real playmaker on the counter attack. Marchbank could be best described as not too dissimilar to Jarrad Waite: he backs himself to win a contested mark at either end of the ground, he can mark over his head when he’s expecting contact, and uses his strength in his kicking to set up further afield. He keeps opposition forwards quiet, whilst also having a big influence on the game himself. Given his athleticism, Marchbank could really develop into a prototype utility, playing on a wing, half-forward or half-back to fill any need required.
Player Update: Marchbank suffered a minor knee injury that required only minor surgery, but he will be ready for preseason. However, he will not test at the draft combine.
Pick 13: Port Adelaide – Liam Duggan
Position: Defender/midfielder
Height: 183 cm, Weight: 76 kg, DOB: 11/12/1996
Club: Western Jets
Projected draft range: 10-25
Player comparison: Steele Sidebottom
A bubbly character off-field, the ‘baby-faced assassin’ is another draft prospect that is gifted in terms of poise, hurt-factor and game-winning attributes. Duggan won the Ben Mitchell medal for this year’s AFL-AIS intake, and has an arsenal of weaponry that far exceeds most in this year’s draft crop. Playing in an array of positions, Duggan offers get-up-and-go from half back, is particularly dangerous around the stoppages and loves to run and carry with his line-breaking speed. The talented left footer has also shown he’s dangerous and effective around goal, kicking three final-quarter goals against the Northern Knights earlier in the year off just four disposals in a come-from-behind win. Duggan’s penetrating kick is his primary asset, but his ability to read the ball well in the air – along with both good vision and speed – suggests his best position will eventually be situated in defence. Despite his slim build, Duggan can win his own ball and tackles strongly. Coupled with his rebounding and attacking style of play complemented by his long left foot, Duggan will be highly rated among recruiters at year’s end.
Player Update: Duggan was named on a wing in the TAC Cup team of the year.
Pick 14: Geelong – Kyle Langford
Position: Utility
Height: 190 cm, Weight: 73kg, DOB: 01/12/1996
Club: Northern Knights
Projected draft range: 25 – 40
Player comparison: Marcus Bontempelli
A really nifty player who gives you a bit of everything, Kyle Langford is a versatile third tall type who can be utilised at either end of the ground, having shot up the draft rankings dramatically over the past month. Langford started the season in hot form, bagging 11 goals in his first three games for Northern, having been utilised as a key tall who pushed high and hard up the wings. He averaged 18 disposals, eight marks and five tackles during that period, resulting in Vic Metro selection. Although best known for completely shutting down Tom Lamb in round one of the carnival, Langford was used in defence as a third tall, working up to the wings. In that time, his clean hands, agility, athleticism and his will to create drive from defence were on full display. His tackling makes up for his lack of ability to win the contested ball, whilst he puts himself in dangerous positions to mark, whether that’s cutting off a forward entry or pushing hard up the ground to mark on a wing. He is quite prolific in the air, and has shown enough to suggest that he could develop nicely into a rangy winger that can drop back or forward when required. He does share similarities to Marcus Bontempelli, though he hasn’t shown the contested edge Bontempelli has just yet. A very, very highly regarded player that’s pushed into the top 20.
Player Update: Lock him in for the top 20: he’s the bolted of the draft, and is potentially another Stephen Wells special awaiting the Cats. Named on the interchange in the TAC Cup team of the year.
Pick 15: Gold Coast – Lachie Weller
Position: Midfielder
Height: 181 cm, Weight: 71 kg, DOB: 23/02/1996
Club: Broadbeach
Projected draft range: 6-15
Player comparison: Dayne Beams
Incredibly underrated and by far one of the most polished kicks of the draft, Lachie Weller’s outside polish will address the need for speed and outside flair for the Suns. A brilliant decision maker and a player that goes about it with a certain flair, Weller has been part of Gold Coast’s Academy. However, he is ineligible to be selected by them in the bidding process, given he hasn’t resided in Queensland long enough to warrant a zone selection. Weller is arguably the most well-rounded and refined midfielder in this year’s draft crop. The medium-sized midfielder wins his own ball on the inside, and can hurt the opposition on the outside. An exciting speedster that is pure silk, Weller makes good decisions with the ball in hand: however, it was his work-ethic, gut-running and efficient link up play that dominated the National Championships in division two.
Pick 16: Fremantle – Jordan De Goey
Position: Midfielder/utility
Height: 187 cm, Weight: 82 kg, DOB: 15/3/1996
Club: Oakleigh Chargers
Projected draft range: 10-20
Player comparison: Unique
The cool Jordan De Goey made a fistful of his opportunity throughout the carnival, stamping himself as a favourite among draft experts. De Goey, a tough on-baller with a polished outside game, oozes class and x-factor: on top of that, he is the type of player who his teammates draw inspiration from. You need not look any further than his moment against Western Australia. De Goey hit an opponent player at full tilt with sheer ferocity, knocking the ball to ground level, before cracking in with a second effort to win the ball back and kick a goal from outside 50 off two steps. The amount of energy in that piece of play personified exactly the type of player he is, and why clubs are salivating over him as a draft prospect later this year. De Goey has an impeccable sense of timing, a strong set of hands in close, and great ability overhead. He has a deep, penetrating kick that is dangerous around the arcs, and he runs through the middle where he can rack up a number of disposals in quick succession. He is a competitive beast who – although physical – has a sense of finesse and an array of sublime attributes that make him a unique prospect in this year’s draft.
Player Update: De Goey suffered a foot injury in the first qualifying final in the opening quarter. Scans have cleared him of any major damage, and he will line up this week for Oakleigh in the preliminary final if he gets through a final fitness test.
Pick 17: Sydney – Isaac Heeney
Position: Midfielder
Height: 186 cm, Weight: 82 kg, DOB: 05/05/1996
Club: Cardiff
Projected draft range: Sydney academy selection
Player comparison: Jobe Watson
Isaac Heeney does just about everything and is arguably the draft’s most complete midfielder. A ball winner and game changer, Heeney is a high-production, energetic midfielder who rarely wastes a disposal. He throws himself at the ball without regard, purely through his commitment to the cause. He is quick, agile and nimble, with the ability to win his own ball from a stoppage and break the lines means he has plenty of hurt factor. Unlike other midfielders with similar attributes, Heeney has composure under pressure, a deft touch and an ability to nurse the ball to where it needs to go, whether by hand or by foot. The high-production midfielder is much more than just a ball magnet: it’s his appetite to tackle and work defensively that sets him apart. It would be very plausible that Heeney would debut in his first season, which reflects how much of a talent the Swans consider him to be. Heeney averaged 23 disposals, three marks, 4.3 tackles, and five clearances at 73 per cent disposal efficiency on his way to winning the division two best and fairest medal.
Player Update: Despite playing just the four games, named in the TAC Cup team of the year on the interchange.
Pick 18: Hawthorn – Corey Ellis
Position: Midfielder/defender
Height: 185 cm, Weight: 76 kg, DOB: 09/10/1996
Club: Western Jets
Projected draft range: 10-25
Player comparison: Andrew Gaff
The type of player who just makes things happen, Corey Ellis is a productive and busy midfielder who can really have a say in the outcome of a game. The blue collar midfielder is easily underrated, merely because there’s nothing flashy about him. He has an uncanny way of pulling off some unrealistic things with the way he can slip out of a tackle, spin through congestion, let fly of an elegant handball through the thickest of congestion and effortlessly kick the ball on either side of his body, regardless of the degree of difficulty. Ellis can really hit some tackles and win his own inside ball: however, he’s very much a playmaker. His marking around the ground is superb, as is the way he uses the ball going inside 50. He is a quality kick on both sides of his body, which is rare for a left footer. He has a great mix of inside and outside capabilities, and loves to get on his preferred left side where his slick ball use finds targets short or deep.
Player Update: He has suffered stress fracture in his foot, which he’d been playing on it for the season’s final weeks. Ellis – who was named on the back flank in the TAC Cup team of the year – won’t test at the combine.
Pick 19: Essendon – Jackson Nelson
Position: Defender/midfielder
Height: 187cm, Weight: 80kg, DOB: 15/03/1996
Club: Geelong Falcons
Projected draft range: 12-35
Player comparison: Nick Vlaustin
Best described as a rudder in defence, Jackson Nelson is a steely defender-cum-midfielder who relishes the hard side of the game. Not too dissimilar to Richmond’s Nick Vlastuin in his attack on the ball and the man, Nelson is a tackling machine who rates among the best for marks, contested possessions and pressure acts. On top of this, Nelson also has enough polish on the outside to operate at an average of 70 per cent disposal efficiency. Rated incredibly highly at the Geelong Falcons, Nelson doesn’t have romantic traits like a Paul Ahern or Jayden Laverde, but he is just as effective if not more well-rounded, doing so without fuss. Averaging 22 high-quality disposals in the TAC Cup, Nelson’s best traits include his work rate, his defensive pressure, repeat efforts, gut running and most obviously his tackling, at an average of 6.2 per game for the Falcons.
Pick 20: Greater Western Sydney – Brayden Maynard
Position: Forward
Height: 186cm, Weight: 88kg, DOB: 20/09/1996
Club: Sandringham Dragons
Projected draft range: 20-30
Player comparison: Ryan O’Keefe
Brayden Maynard is a slick utility type that does his best work off the packs with an ability to kick on either side of his body. The hard-nosed, balanced midfielder is somebody that is targeted by opposition teams to shut down, given his ability to quickly set up play and importantly stream forward to goal. He’s been utilised in an array of positions: however, he ultimately looms more of a forward type. However, with increased endurance and fitness, he has the potential to make the move into the midfield, whether permanently or as a rotation. Aside from his brilliant goal kicking, Maynard is an aerial specialist with strong hands in a contest, who also marks strongly around the ground. Although he isn’t a polished kick of the ball (operating at just 60 per cent disposal efficiency), he has a terrific base to work with, allowing a club to mould him into any type of role. He has been impressive so far during the Dragons’ finals campaign, featuring in the best on both occasions.
