Draft Watcher Young Talent Time 2013 - A Phantom Draft

[Chris25]

Just a few days to go, thought one final update was in order.

Round 1

1. GWS - Tom Boyd (199cm, 102kg forward - Eastern Ranges)

He is the player that just about every team wants, and who can blame them? A full forward as strong as Tom Boyd doesn't come around all that often. In terms of where he ranks with a couple of other players around his age, I'd have him behind Jesse Hogan but just a shade ahead of Jon Patton. So really, he is deserving of the #1 selection. He does everything you'd be looking for from a franchise key forward - really strong hands, one of the best contested markers the U18s has seen. You could make the argument that he is dominating due to his size advantage, but he isn't the first player to be bigger than his opponents. He is just making the most of it. And even if he wasn't so strong, he reads the play and knows where to position himself so he'd mark it more often than not anyway. As for what he does after he marks it, I'd be backing him in to kick the goal from anywhere inside of 60m. Like Roughead, he could run through the ruck if needed to. But I don't think it's a strength of his, best just to leave him up forward.

2. GWS - Matthew Scharenberg (190cm, 89kg utility - Glenelg)

I would personally consider Scharenberg the best player in the draft. I think he does get a little underrated because people don't know exactly what he'll be at the next level, probably in part due to similar sized players in the past. Is he a midfielder? A key position player? A flanker? I would suggest he is all these things, much in the same way that Brendan Goddard can fill any number of roles. I think he'll start off on a half back flank, pushing up to a wing as an outside midfielder. But with a couple of years under his belt, he'll be able to offer a marking target at CHF or an attacking option from CHB. Scharenberg arguably reads the ball better than anyone else in the draft, he is a good strong mark, has nice foot skills and athletically is above average. I don't think he has any real area of weakness, it's just a question of how he goes fitting into the different roles. He looks to be a combination of a few different players to me - Goddard, Sam Fisher, Sam Mayes and even a bit of the Riewoldt's. And I have no issue with putting him in that company.

3. St Kilda - James Aish (183cm, 74kg midfielder - Norwood)

The top pure midfielder in the draft, Aish has been a star of the underage SANFL scene for a number of years now - he has also played in two senior grand finals, not looking out of place in either. Right from his league debut as a 16 year old, he has pretty much been spoken about as a potential #1 selection. And there is a good reason for such high acclaim. He already looks like a seasoned AFL player when he has the ball in hand. He has more time than anyone else on the field, seemingly always makes the right decision and uses the ball as well as anyone. It's his general football smarts and ability to work his way into space which makes him a better contested ball winner than his slight frame may lead you to believe. Gary Ablett is hardly a bull in at the centre bounces, but he can find the gaps better than anyone. So while Aish may largely be an outside player at first (which would be his only negative in my view) I think he'll become a complete midfielder in no time and will be someone to build a team around.

4. Western Bulldogs - Josh Kelly (182cm, 73kg midfielder - Sandringham)

I get the feeling that some people aren't quite sure about Josh Kelly, and I think it stems from the fact that he is considered an 'outside' midfielder. It seems as though people are under the impression that that means they are incapable of winning their own ball and are solely seagulls on the outside. But that's not necessarily true for Kelly. Yes, he isn't a huge contested ball winner. His strength lies on the outside, but he still goes in hard when it's his turn. And he still does all the team things. I wouldn't consider his inside game any worse than Tom Scully or Lachie Whitfield, and they were top selections. It's just a matter of using them right. Kelly has absolutely elite endurance, he wont stop running all day. And you can see that just from looking at his statistics, where he consistently leads his team in handball receives. You can't blame his teammates for feeding him the ball either, because he is an excellent kick and a long one at that. Any forward would love to be on the end of one of his kicks. So while 'outside' might be considered a bad word on BigFooty, the teams and media consider him a potential top two pick for a good reason.

5. Gold Coast - Jonathon Marsh (192cm, 89kg forward - East Fremantle)

One of the more interesting players to watch come draft day will likely be Jonathon Marsh, he could easily go inside the top 10 or drop down closer to the second round. Some will view him as a midfielder, some a key forward and others as a flanker. I don't think you can put Marsh in the same boat as other forwards in the 188-192cm range, he is a completely different player. He has versatility that the likes of Darling and Membrey don't. Up until this year, Marsh was a midfielder. A reasonably tall one, and a very fast one. He had worked hard to get his game to where it was, and I still think he offers great potential as a midfielder. But this year, he was thrown into the role as a CHF - with varying degrees of success. His marking game improved with the more games he played, and he is more than competing in the air and doesn't mind going for a big leap. It's his running power and elite speed which really sets him apart as a forward though, very few will be able to go with him on the lead or keep up when he runs back towards the goals. The ability to play small as a key forward shouldn't be underestimated. I honestly can't see why a team wouldn't take the punt on him, he could be one of the great players out of this draft. Teams that trust their development group will have him high on their lists.

6. Collingwood - Kade Kolodjashnij (188cm, 76kg utility - Launceston)

The form of Kade Kolodjashnij was one of the main stories coming out of the U18 Championships, and he has well and truly cemented his spot inside the first round. If Tasmania do one thing well, it's highlighting their best players. They did it last season with Thurlow, and this time they did whatever they could to show off Kade in the best possible light. All season, I've had Kade in the 10-20 range but I'm become a fan over the past few weeks and he has started to move up the board a little bit. It's easy to see why people like him though, height being the obvious one. He reads the play really well, zones off his man and is a very good uncontested mark in the back line. With ball in hand, he makes good decisions and is a nice clean kick. Given those attributes, it's no surprise he performed so well as a loose man/rebounding defender. Back in Tasmania, he has started playing more across the half forward line and he has done that well too - which is one reason why I am currently rating him higher than I did. But I'd still like to see a bit more in terms of actual midfield performances, because it's largely potential at this stage. Not entirely convinced he has the contested game to make a permanent midfield move, and I think he plays better when he can see the game unfolding in front of him as opposed to making it happen himself.

7. Brisbane - Blake Acres (188cm, 84kg midfielder - West Perth)

The fact that Blake Acres missed the majority of the U18 Championships with a shoulder injury was arguably the most disappointing thing to happen to the tournament. He was probably the one player that I really wanted to see, and he would have made the WA side so much more competitive as he adds something that little bit different to the rest of the WA midfielders - in fact, something different to most of the midfielders in the whole draft. For starters, he is a genuinely big midfielder - will still get a bit stronger, I saw someone describe him as 'rangy' and thats fairly accurate. Think his body and strength will develop as it has with Nat Fyfe. He is one of those players who just makes the game look easy, he is an absolute ball magnet, strong in the air and reads the play very well. And like Fyfe, he can play pretty much anywhere on the ground. Although, I think he'll go the opposite route and play as a half back/midfielder as opposed to going forward. He could be just as good as Birchall as a rebounding defender, with possibly a greater ability to play through the midfield. A top 10 talent, I originally had him slightly lower down due to somewhat limited viewings but his ceiling is too high to overlook for me.

8. North Melbourne - Luke McDonald (188cm, 80kg utility - Oakleigh)

The great white hope for North Melbourne, there was never any doubt that they would select him and it's official now that it will cost them their first round selection. I personally would have him somewhere in the 5-10 range, so it would be a good value pick for North regardless. I thought Luke McDonald was a little disappointing in the U18 Championships for Vic Metro, he won plenty of the ball and used it well but didn't really have a huge impact. And he played a largely uncontested game, I thought he could have done much more in the midfield given his physical stature. But on other other side, he has had a strong season in the VFL and played particularly well for Werribee in there finals campaign. He'll play every game across half back for North Melbourne next year and will be a major upgrade on what they currently have. The kid is strong, attacks the ball and uses it very well by foot.

9. Melbourne - Marcus Bontempelli (192cm, 83kg midfielder - Northern Knights)

Possibly my favourite player in the draft, yes even ahead of the South Australians. At the start of the season I picked Marcus Bontempelli as my bolter, and I was talking him up to anyone who would listen. And I'm pleased to see more people jumping on board of the bandwagon. In previous years, Marcus has played more as a flanker/outside midfielder but this season has spent more time right in the middle as well as playing across half forward. He is a rangy type player who moves really well, with both decent speed and a strong endurance base. Really nice leap on him, and he is a very good kick - both long and strong. With reports that he is still growing, I'm becoming increasingly interested in his potential as a CHF. I do think he is best played as a midfielder, yet he could also play up forward and push into the middle. Not many defenders could go with him all game. But the reason I'm such a fan is because of the improvements I've seen in his inside game, he is starting to really use his body well and he gets himself into good positions. I'm not saying he will be as good, but he could potentially develop into a Jobe Watson type - versatile, damaging and wins his own ball.

10. Collingwood - Christian Salem (183cm, 82kg midfielder - Sandringham)

Proving I never learn from my mistakes, I'm going to continue underrating Christian Salem only to see him go well inside the first round and possibly top 10 come the draft. For some reason there is always that one midfielder (typically a Victorian) that I just don't get all that excited by. And this year, it seems as though Salem is that guy. I should like him. He is a strong bodied midfielder, capable of both winning his own ball or linking up on the outside. In fact he is a very strong midfielder, he can break tackles and push off his opponents with relative ease at U18 level. I've seen some people suggest he has that 'time and space' ability of the elite players, but I don't see that personally. He's just stronger so he can work into space, as opposed to being hugely athletically gifted. His disposal is an interesting one for me, he has a very good looking left boot on him but I don't think the end result is always as good as it should be. As a midfielder he has shown he can go forward and kick goals, while he also shown the ability to play off half back. All in all, I'd compare him to Nick Suban at Fremantle.

11. West Coast - Dom Sheed (183cm, 82kg midfielder - Subiaco)

There is a lot to like about Dom Sheed, chances are he goes to West Coast at #6 but I just think there is something about him that could see him slip through. All season, I've had him around the 10-20 position and his impressive form in the Championships has done little to change my opinion. It's not the 'lack of speed' that you keep hearing, it's just that I'm not convinced he truly is 'elite'. Would you select a Jack Redden or Brad Ebert in the top 5 or 10? That's the type of player I would put Sheed alongside - pretty bloody good, but not someone who will take the AFL by storm. I like his inside midfield game, just has that ability to read the play better than others and come out of the packs with the ball. And while I wouldn't call him an elite user of the football, he always seems to make the right decisions. And if he can find the same amount of time and space at the next level, I'm sure we'll see the same thing again. One of the question marks I had over him was his versatility, and how damaging a midfielder he would be. But I was pleased to see him kick some goals for WA, because it's not something he has done a lot of before this last month.

12. Richmond - Trent Dumont (185cm, 83kg midfielder - Norwood)

Almost the forgotten midfielder from South Australia, he just seems like one of those guys who will be forever underrated. We saw the same with the likes of Conca and Vlastuin in recent years, and both of them went in the top 10. Could it happen again? Dumont is a similar player to his teammate Dunstan - tall, strong midfielder who is a genuine ball winner. He can play inside and win his own ball, or work on the outside. Wouldn't surprise me if he began his career off of half back, before moving into the middle. Has a very good kick on him, really penetrates the lines and is just clean with everything he does. If anything, he probably doesn't have the turn of speed that teams may be looking for from such an early pick. But he does have good endurance, and that shouldn't be discounted. It's the versatility that he offers which I think will see some teams rating him higher than other similar midfielders. I can just see him coming in and having a real impact right from Round 1, he is doing just that in the SANFL seniors at the moment after all. He certainly looked the part in the senior grand final for Norwood this year.

13. Carlton - Luke Dunstan (185cm, 83kg midfielder - Woodville)

The captain of the South Australian side, if a team was after leadership and a future captain then Dunstan would likely be the first player picked in the draft. I'm finding him to be one of the harder players to place in the draft. His peformances over the last 18 months would suggest him to be a very early pick, in the SANFL U18s in particular he has just dominated. Consistently picking up 30+ touches and being named in the bests pretty much every week, as a 17 year old he was often overshadowing his older teammates. And he has carried that form through to the Championships this year. But something makes me think he could slide, just a tad. I'm not sure his kicking is quite as good as some people are making it out to be, I suppose he gets it done but its not always pretty to look at. The fact that he, more often than not, makes the right decisions certainly makes his disposal look a little better. But a 185cm inside midfielder who can also take a strong mark is always in demand, and you can afford him one slight weakness.

14. GWS - Jack Billings (183cm, 78kg midfielder - Oakleigh)

I really don't know what I think about Jack Billings. I know some people rate him in the top four of this draft, with some recruiters liking him more than the South Australian pair at the top of my draft. But I just can't get as excited about him. He has everything you'd want from a player - versatility, football smarts, excellent disposal and strong athletically. He has put up some very impressive games at TAC Cup level and as an underaged player last season in the U18 Championships. But, I can just see inconsistency being a major issue for him. He struggled to have an impact this year for Vic Metro, barely averaging over 12 disposals a game. And I'm just not sure he becomes a genuine midfielder. I liken him to Shaun Higgins, both in terms of strengths and weaknesses. I suppose the good thing he doesn't need a lot of disposals to have an impact, which means he could drastically improve his game if he starts finding the ball more. So far he has made his name more as a medium forward, although I'd be tempted to develop him into a half back. He reads the play very well and can be damaging with his disposal - think he'd do better with the game unfolding infront of him, and being able to play as a loose man too.

15. Sydney - George Hewett (185cm, 78kg midfielder - North Adelaide)

George Hewett is another name you may remember from the South Australian draft thread, he only played the two U18 games this year but was arguably BOG in each of them playing through the midfield - in this role, he is real ball magnet and can win his own ball in and around the stoppages. Since then he hasn't played a lot, but he had a really good time of it in the U18 Championships playing as a midfielder and half forward - he absolutely dominated the contested possessions, which was a very pleasant surprise. He has good, not elite, speed and endurance and nice clean skills. He is one of those players who just seems to make things happen, so much so that I think he could be a real surprise packet on draft day. Has that versatility and size many teams will be looking for. Also, he has a very late December birthday so he is only draft eligible by a couple of days, which I like to think means he is still has development to come.

16. Geelong - Nathan Freeman (181cm, 85kg midfielder - Sandringham)

Nathan Freeman developed quite the bandwagon a couple of months ago, with some calling him the best midfielder in the draft and it seems as though it has kicked off again now that the Draft Combine is complete. I've never really seen that. I think if you're picking Freeman, you're picking him based on what he could become - not what he is right now. He isn't the most consistent or dangerous midfielder in the TAC Cup, or even for Sandringham. He isn't a big goal kicker, often not having as much of an impact as he could forward of centre. And I personally don't think he is as good a kick as some make him out to be. But, he has flashed potential throughout the season. He has shown that he can kick goals, he has shown he can rack up the disposals with the best of them and he has shown excellent vision and decision making with his kicking. He just doesn't do it enough at this stage for me. What he does offer already though, is a strong body and excellent speed. And that is why he will go in the first round, somewhere in the 10-15 range in my opinion.

17. Fremantle - Cameron McCarthy (195cm, 89kg forward - South Fremantle)

One of the nicest surprises at the U18 Championships was the form of Cameron McCarthy. I'd been waiting to see which key position player would really step it up and put his name forward as an early selection, and without a doubt it was the big West Australian. His team really needed him to provide a target, and he did just that all tournament long. He's hard to miss out there on the field when he is flying for a mark, and I'm a firm believer that not enough AFL footballers wear headbands. He jumps high, attacks the ball at it's peak and more often than not will come down with it. McCarthy is still quite raw, his kicking technique is hardly textbook but it still gets results. All in all, he reminds me of Aaron Black from North Melbourne - and while it might take a couple of years to really see his best, I could see him following the same path. Obviously his Championships ended with a broken leg, but early reports put it in a different category to the career threatening tibia/fibula fractures that we've seen far too often recently. So I don't think it will hurt his status as the second best key forward in the draft.

18. St Kilda - Jarman Impey (176cm, 78kg forward - Murray)

No doubt people know by now that I like my flashy small forwards/midfielders, and I tend to rate them a little higher than others. But, I don't think I'm overrating Jarman Impey at all. It's the opposite, I think he is being underrated by everyone else and will likely go somewhere around the 20-25 mark. That clever forward/fast midfielder role is becoming increasingly important, you just have to look at the impact of players like Walters and Motlop this year. And I think Jarman compares well to Steven Motlop from Geelong. He has the skills, the speed and the general agility. But he also quite a solid body, he isn't a lightly framed kid who'll take years to develop physically - he has shown this year the ability to win his own ball in the clearances, while losing none of his x-factor around goals. Might take him a little while to get his endurance up to where it needs to be, but that's about the only thing holding him back at the moment.

19. St Kilda - Lewis Taylor (173cm, 73kg midfielder - Geelong)

It seems that every year now, there is one player under the 175cm mark who is pushing for top top selection. And generally, it's said that the only reason they aren't a top three selection is because of their height. We've seen Prestia and Smith, and this year that player is Lewis Taylor. Taylor shares quite a few traits with both of those players. Athletically, he is very good - both in terms of speed and agility. Maybe he wont test in the absolutely top bracket, but he seems to play quicker - and a large reason for that, is because he knows where to run and can hit the holes. As I've said elsewhere, I consider him a mix of Brent Harvey's outside run and Dion Prestia's inside wrecking ball style of player. Taylor will consistently win 25+ disposals, and is solid with his use of the ball. I could see him starting his career across half forward before making the permanent move into the midfield, because while he isn't the most natural crumber he can bob up for goals and should provide good defensive pressure. It seems as though supporters don't like the prospect of drafting such a small player in the first round, but they'll quickly change their opinion once he starts playing.

20. Gold Coast - Isaiah Miller (187cm, 82kg utility - Bendigo)

The first time I saw Isaiah Miller play live was in the opening rounds of the 2012 TAC Cup season, and I've been a big fan of his ever since. Even as an underaged player, he stood out in what were pretty ordinary conditions. Yet despite the wind and rain, you could see he was just a class above with his decision making and disposal. I'm not quite sure why he hasn't been talked about more often to be honest, because he has had a pretty good season. Miller has averaged well over 20 disposals per game in the TAC Cup, playing across half back and up on to a wing. In the U18 Championships, he had a very solid campaign and was the general of the Vic Country back line - finishing equal 5th amongst all players for rebound 50s. And he has made his VFL debut, where he was named amongst the bests in his first game. He isn't overly quick, and perhaps isn't the best pure defender - but the same could be said about Grant Birchall, and he is doing all right for himself. And that's the role I see Miller playing, where he can make use of being able to read the play better than most and set the play up going forward.

 

[Chris25]

Round 2

21. Port Adelaide - Dwayne Wilson (178cm, 75kg midfielder - Sturt)

If there is one thing I like more than nearly anything else, it's a flashy player on the outside. And this year, you're not going to find many better than Wilson. I'd rate him just behind Josh Simpson from last year, and they are similar players. Both are genuine outside midfielders, as opposed to half forwards. And both can have a huge impact with minimal disposals. Wilson is just one of those guys who could be BOG with 15 touches - although having said that, he is actually quite a good ball winner. Wilson was in really good ball winning form this year with multiple 25+ disposal games back home for Sturt, and it's not just players handing him the ball either. While his performances for South Australia were also impressive, showing his outside run. He has pace and is not afraid to use it, and has the foot skills to really make you stand up and take notice. He can fade in and out of games like a lot of players of his type, but that's just a matter of learning other ways to stay involved.

22. Brisbane - Ben Lennon (187cm, 79kg utility - Northern Knights)

Lennon is probably the one player who I've changed my mind on the most. At one stage, I had him in the top 5 and I've also had him as low as about 25. And I don't really know where he will go come the draft, other than it will be somewhere in that quite large range. Where he goes will probably depend on what position clubs view him as playing - half forward, half back or midfield. Personally, I think it will be as a swingman capable of playing off either flank - even though his late season midfield form has been decent in the TAC Cup. I've seen some people compare him to Goddard, but he is more of a Robert Murphy for me. Lennon can play tall or small, and marks strongly in the air. With ball in hand, he is a smart player who can set up a lot of attack - I could see him making the high risk kicks into the centre corridor look easy. And that's why I like him best off of half back, where he can set up the game. Another player who has had consistency issues, and might take a couple of years to really nail down a set position. But he is still one of the better pure talents in the draft, even if so much is still unknown.

23. Adelaide - Tom Cutler (190cm, 86kg defender - Oakleigh)

Playing as a 17 year old in the TAC Cup last season, Tom Cutler was excellent. I saw him play live a couple of times, and I remember keep having to refer to the footy record to make sure he was an underaged kid. Unfortunately, for a number of reasons, he has only played the one game for Oakleigh this season - he was away with the AFL/AIS group on the tour of Europe, he played for Vic Metro in the U18 Championships and he has been playing school football too. So while it's a shame he wasn't able to play more in the TAC Cup, it wont hurt his chances of being drafted much at all. He reminds me a bit of players like Andrew Mackie and Sam Fisher. He can play taller if required and fill in as that second or third tall forward, but it's the combination of that height and his rebounding abilities that is his real strength. Like those two players, he isn't particularly quick - he does however read the play very well, and uses his smarts to work his way out of defence. Cutler might not be a big ball winner, but he is a solid and smart defender who can also push forward or into the midfield.

24. Hawthorn - Dayle Garlett (181cm, 76kg midfielder - Swan Districts)

Everyone knows the story of Dayle Garlett, an absolutely elite talent who has let himself down with his off field activities. Seems a common trend this year is people saying about how their team should have rookie listed him, based on how well he is doing in the WAFL. But I very much believe the fact he wasn't drafted has played a key role in his performances. Who knows what might have happened had he found himself on an AFL list. But (hopefully) that's all in the past now and he is still a top 10 talent, so that's where he finds himself in my draft. He has turned himself into one of the very best league players in the WAFL, a hugely damaging midfielder who is consistently winning 20+ touches a game. And quite rightly so, he will look to kick the ball at least 80% of the time he has it in his hands. Linking up on the outside, winning the ball inside, Garlett has done it all this season. And not only that, but he is 7th in the goal kicking with 30 goals in just 11 games. Assuming he gets picked up, he'll play every game and poll quite well in the Rising Star next year.

25. Brisbane - Zak Jones (181cm, 74kg midfielder - Dandenong)

Brother of Melbourne player Nathan, Zak Jones has proven himself to be more than just the younger brother this season. He has put in a very consistent and impressive year of his own. He shares some similiarities with his brother - he has that same attack on the ball, is also a strong clearance player and has very nice skills. In the U18 Championships, he showed himself to be one of Vic Country's best contested players, he didn't really have any down games. I could easily see him getting picked up well inside the second round, very good chance of Melbourne reuniting him with his brother. I'm actually not really sure why I don't rate him even higher, perhaps it's because I think he projects best as a medium defender as opposed to midfielder. But he shows all the signs of being a very good defender, he rebounds well and that's where his foot skills are important. But, the best part is probably that he plays a lot bigger than his 181cm. He is strong in the air, so can play defensive roles on players taller than him.

26. Essendon - James Sicily (186cm, 77kg midfielder - Western Jets)

Now, this kid is underrated. Coming into the season, James Sicily probably wasn't a name that many had on their minds. He was a solid performer at TAC Cup level in 2012, but never really stood out and take a game by storm. Nobody could say that about him this year though. He has easily been Western Jet's best player, and was named in the TAC Cup Team of the Year. So what do I like about him? Firstly, at 186cm he is an excellent size for a midfielder/half forward. And he is a difficult player to match up on, because he is very strong in the air but can move well once the ball hits the ground. He can create mismatches when going up against smaller midfielders and taller defenders. I've seen some compare him to Nathan Fyfe, and he is similar in some regards but I wouldn't get to carried away with the similarities. Sicily doesn't have the same contested game, and is likely to remain more of an outside wing/flanker type. But that plays to his strengths anyway, he is a strong runner and knows where to run to - plus at the Combine he showed he has genuine speed to burn. And in the TAC Cup this season, he has proven himself to a big time goal kicker - with 26 goals in his 16 games.

27. Gold Coast - Darcy Lang (181cm, 77kg midfielder - Geelong)

It seems as through injury striking down promising players at the wrong time has been a common trend this year. Darcy Lang was playing particularly good football for Vic Country in the U18 Championships and was outperforming a number of his more highly fancied teammates. Playing as a strong inside midfielder, he was continuing his impressive TAC Cup season - averaging nearly 20 touches, tackling hard and using the ball well. But in the last match he unfortunately broke his leg, and it put him out for the rest of the year. Despite this, Lang received an invite to the Draft Combine - although he didn't test obviously. It wouldn't surprise me if a team still took him early, and it could prove to be a good selection. He still has room to add more muscle onto his frame, which is promising given his style of play. Maybe he doesn't have any stand out attributes, but he is a smart inside player with no real weaknesses and I think will make the step up to the next level quite well.

28. Brisbane - Darcy Gardiner (192cm, 84kg defender - Geelong)

The general thoughts with Darcy Gardiner are that he is the best key defender in the draft, but that there isn't much competition behind him. So given that, is he really a first round pick? Or is his value inflated because of a lack of other options? Well, I'm of the opinion that he deserves to be talked about as an early pick on the back of his performances alone. Tomlinson from the Giants has had an excellent debut season, but I would have Gardiner slightly ahead in terms of their draft years. He has proven himself to be the best key defender in the TAC Cup, and was named the All Australian full back in the U18 Championships. Not the most attacking player, but he has gradually improved as the season has gone on and he isn't a liability with ball in hand. Ted Richards is probably the best comparison in my opinion as a defender. But Gardiner has also gone forward this season, taking some strong marks and kicking a few goals. So maybe that will be an option in a few years, but he'll play down back at first.

29. GWS - Nick Robertson (188cm, 83kg midfielder - West Perth)

I've been a big fan of Nick Robertson, largely since his game against South Australia in the U18 Championships last year. I thought he was arguably best on ground, and for an underaged kid he had a real impact on the stoppages. Thought he used his body really well, and seemed to get to the right spots at the right time. If I remember correctly however, he went off injured and unfortunately that has been a common theme with Robertson since. And he underwent shoulder surgery just prior to the Championships this season, with the aim of returning to the WAFL towards the end of the season. But all that aside, I'd still be happy to pick him up early. He reminds me a bit of Jack Ziebell, except with much better endurance. In the midfield, he is hard to shift when he is going for the ball and has decent foot skills on both sides of his body. Also tackles hard, and can play across half back with his defensive side. Sometimes he can go missing a bit outside of the stoppages, but I think that's just because he prefers the tough stuff. Because his workrate and endurance can't be questioned.

30. North Melbourne - James Battersby (177cm, 78kg midfielder - Sturt)

Heading into the U18 Championships, I thought South Australia had one weakness and that was in terms of a small defender. We didn't really have anyone playing that role in the SANFL, not someone who could shut down the dangerous opposition small forwards. But a month in, and Battersby has turned that position into a real strength for SA. Consistently being named in the bests, he is both winning his own ball and rebounding well but also keeping his opponent quiet. He would have to be one of the more underrated prospects in the draft. As a 16 year old, he was very highly rated and considered one of the top players of his age in the state. Since then, he has made his SANFL league debut and stepped straight into the starting midfield at Sturt. Against much more mature players than himself, he has excelled at the stoppages and always seems to be the player at the bottom of the pack. The knock on him may be how much growth and improvement he has to come, but he is a smart and well rounded player who could easily come in next year and play through the midfield or in a back pocket.

31. West Coast - Billy Hartung (176cm, 71kg midfielder - Dandenong)

The other sub-180cm midfielder in the draft, Billy Hartung isn't getting quite as much attention as Taylor - and that may prove to be an oversight. Maybe that will change after his record setting Draft Combine. He was always the odds on favourite to win the beep test, and has shown all year that he can run out games with the very best athletes - it's not just that he tests well. His speed is very good too, which is a handy combination with his endurance. As a player, he is largely an outside receiver and that probably wont change much at the next level up. He works extremely hard, so is a big ball winner and a dangerous link up player on the outside. Hartung has also shown some good versatility - he can play up forward as a goal sneak, but has also shown he can play defensive roles. In the U18 Championships, he held Aish quite well while not sacrificing his own game either. I think of him as a little bit like Luke Dahlhaus, he is only small and maybe limited in what role he can play, but he'll work harder than anyone and will always find a way to get involved.

32. Sydney - Cameron Giles (195cm, 93kg defender - Woodville)

Cameron Giles would have to be one of my favourite stories from the Championships this year, he really took to being the #1 man in defence for South Australia and he got to show another side to his game. In the SANFL, he has generally been playing a bit higher up the ground at CHB - and has even been running through the ruck and midfield. It's a role he has done very well, consistently winning 20+ touches. And considering he is 195cm and 93kg, that's pretty impressive. Plus, he doesn't butcher the ball either. A couple of years ago we saw Sam Frost drop to the rookie draft playing a similar role, but that's where Giles' Championships form comes into play. To an extent, he has sacrificed his rebound to play a strong defensive game at full back. Seeing him go against Boyd would have been great and I think he would have done a lot better than people may think, but he has beaten the opponents he has come across. And you can't ask for much more than that from a KPD. But still, he projects best as a CHB where he can run and get involved in the play as well as playing defensive roles.

33. Brisbane - Darcy Hourigan (191cm, 93kg forward - South Adelaide)

Don't think it's any surprise that I'm quite the Hourigan fan, and I don't really care about his height. I think the way they play is more important than whether they are 191cm or 193cm. And Hourigan plays taller than what he is. For starters, he is a well developed 18 year old. Playing senior SANFL football as a 15 year old will do that to you I suppose. As a forward, he keeps things reasonably simply. He plays in front, leads straight to the ball and pushes his opponent off. Yes, he is carrying a little bit of puppy fat but he is strong. And he has that big backside that all the best forwards have - which lets him crash the packs like a much bigger player, or outposition his defender. It's a large part of why I compare him to the likes of Darling and Pavlich. One thing I've liked seeing this year is him playing further up the ground around the CHF spot, his running power has improved and it looks like he still has improvement to come in that regard. In his younger days, Hourigan also spent time down back so he could prove to be a valuable swingman too.

34. Brisbane - Matthew Crouch (181cm, 80kg midfielder - North Ballarat)

In terms of genuine inside ball winnings midfielders, Matthew Crouch is clearly the best on offer. I would rate him alongside of Oliver Wines, not quite at his brother's level yet though. He is an absolute ball magnet, only having 30 disposals in the TAC Cup would be considered a quiet match for him as he is regularly hitting the 40 mark. Always at the bottom of the packs, Crouch is a natural in winning the contested ball and getting the quick handball out to his teammates. But he also reads the packs well, and can clear the ball himself with his run. A wrist injury meant he missed the first few weeks of the U18 Championships, but he returned in excellent form. The problem is that there are quite a few contested ball winning midfielders in this draft, and a number of them can play effectively in other positions - be it across half forward or half back. And that's where I think Crouch is lacking. For an inside midfielder, he uses the ball well but he isn't particularly damaging and doesn't really impact the scoreboard at all. Plus I don't see him as having the versatility to play any other role. His fitness base has improved slightly throughout the season, but still has some way to go. Will likely still go first round, but I see other players as having a greater scope for improvement.

35. Sydney - Eli Templeton (182cm, 67kg midfielder - Burnie)

In my opinion, the best player out of Tasmania this year is Eli Templeton. A couple of others may have bigger profiles especially after the Combine, but I think he projects quite nicely as a midfielder and he has enough quality attributes to suggest he'll have a real impact. He is quite lightly framed, but he'll fill out over time and it isn't causing him too many issues playing senior football in Tasmania. Templeton will no doubt be compared to Dyson Heppell because of the similar hairstyles, but I do think they could follow similar career paths - start as an outside midfielder/flanker, and slowly over the years move into a more permanent midfield role. The one thing I really like with Templeton is what he does with the ball in his hands, he is a really creative user of the ball and more often than not he'll hit his target. Finding the ball isn't an issue for Eli either, consistently racking up 20+ touches. He also has the versatility to play as a rebounding defender, and knows where the goals are up forward too. Lots to like, and I do think he could end up as the best of the Taswegians long term.

36. Geelong - Louis Herbert (187cm, 75kg utility - North Ballarat)

Last year, Louis Herbert was one of my smokies coming out of the U18 Championships. I think he only played one or two games for Vic Country last year, and only had a handful of touches in those games but he clunked a couple of strong marks and didn't look out of place. Well, he went undrafted and returned to the TAC Cup and Vic Country as an overaged player this year - and instead of playing as that medium half forward, he shifted initially to a back flank and eventually pushed up onto a wing. And whether it was the change of position or that extra year under his belt, he has looked a much better player. He still isn't the strongest player going around and will need to add to his frame, as otherwise he will be limited to purely attacking roles. But he has good speed and uses the ball well, seems to set the play up nicely off half back and isn't afraid to run it out either. The strength of his game is still his contested marking, not quite a Howe or Fyfe but he does have sticky hands and that makes him dangerous in any number of roles.

37. Fremantle - Tom Vandeleur (191cm, 90kg defender - South Fremantle)

If you purely looked at his statistics, then you probably wouldn't be overly impressed - averaging only 14 disposals in the WAFL Colts, and in his two U18 Championships games he managed just the 8 touches. But, his season has been hampered by injury and he has always impressed when he has made it onto the ground. So much so, that he has made his league debut for South Fremantle. And in a draft when the depth in talls isn't the best, teams could be tempted to take a chance on someone like Vandeleur. In fact, it wouldn't surprise me if he went even earlier than the third round. There is just something there that suggests with a couple of years, he'll develop into a real player. Playing at CHB, first and foremost he reads the play very well. He seems to know where to position himself, and also where to run. As a rebounder, he moves well and has good foot skills. I could see him developing into a Michael Johnson type defender - playing as a second/third tall, and calmly moving the ball out of the back lines.

38. Hawthorn - Daniel McStay (194cm, 88kg defender - Eastern Ranges)

I've been talking up Daniel McStay for some time now, and he'd be one of my favourite KPPs in the draft - I'm still not entirely sure where he goes, particularly whether others rate him as highly as I do. But he did receive a Draft Combine invite, so that's a good sign to suggest I'm not completely wrong about him. His development as a player has been quite good to watch over the last couple of seasons, with a growth spurt taking him from tall midfielder to genuine key position player. That time spent in the midfield has certainly helped his running game, which is always nice in a tall. He has spent time up forward, and has done reasonably well with his strong marking. But, he is definitely a more natural defender. He reads the play quite well, rebounds nicely and has clean skills. Unfortunately he didn't get a lot of game time in the U18 Championships, and still does need to develop the physical side of his game. But what I like is that he has an air of confidence about him, and always seems to back himself in against his opponent. Always a good sign in a young tall, and should be able to back that up with performances once he gets stronger.

 

[Chris25]

Round 3

39. Carlton - Cameron Conlon (198cm, 87kg forward - Northern Knights)

This draft would be completely different if it weren't for Cameron Conlon's injuries. He would have been a real shot at being a top 5 selection, but unfortunately he hasn't played a game in the TAC Cup this year and managed just 9 in 2012. He is currently on the comeback from a knee injury, and should be good to go by the Draft Combine. The fact that he has been nominated for the Combine, shows just how highly he is rated - there was talk of him being just as good as Matthew Kreuzer, a former Northern Knight himself. So where he gets drafted is really anyone's guess. There is absolutely no guarantee that he even gets drafted though. But I'm of the opinion that he will go earlier than many think, considering the other KPPs on offer his upside is too good to pass on. The fact that Conlon can ruck will appeal to many, but I would be happy if he stayed at full forward for the whole game - something he didn't get to do enough of in the TAC Cup last season. He is a very good contested mark, and is more than athletic enough to compete once the ball hits the ground.

40. Melbourne - Campbell Combe (178cm, 82kg midfielder - North Adelaide)

If there was one player from South Australia who I think could surprise come draft day, it's Campbell Combe. The small midfielder from North Adelaide is one of the better contested ball winners in the entire draft, and Combe is one reason why I would overlook similar players in the earlier rounds - he would offer just as good a clearance winner, at a much lower cost. In my opinion, he was the best performed of all the South Australian midfielders at the U18 Championships - he was our #1 contested ball and clearance winner, finishing with better numbers than the likes of both Dunstan and Dumont. One knock on him has always been his size, but he is closer to the 180cm mark than you'd think so hopefully it isn't a concern for clubs and he has a strong, nuggety build. Also he is somewhat limited at the next level, don't think he has the game to be a small forward or defender. But in the midfield, he shows shades of Tom Liberatore as that genuine clearance winner.

41. Geelong - Jake Kolodjashnij (192cm, 88kg defender - Launceston)

I really like Jake Kolodjashnij, I don't have him all that far below his brother to be honest. It wouldn't surprise me if teams started looking at him come the second/third round. During the U18 Championships, he was given the task of playing at CHB and lining up on the opposition's best players. At first, I questioned just how well he would play. Before this, he had largely been playing as a third tall defender and more on the medium tall forwards. But, he performed really well and seemed to step up to the level of his opponent rather than shrink faced with the extra responsibility. Based on what he has shown to this point, he'd have to be considered one of the better pure defensive players in the draft. While back in Tasmania, he has also been given the chance to play a more attacking role off of half back - and he has good pace, and very good foot skills. At AFL level, I think he does project more as a third tall defender. But I think he has the attributes required to play on the dangerous medium forwards like Stevie Johnson or Lindsay Thomas.

42. Western Bulldogs - Mitch Harvey (195cm, 97kg forward - North Adelaide)

If you had been following my posts in the South Australian draft thread, then you'd know that Mitch Harvey has been one of my absolute favourites all season. His form in the SANFL U18s and Reserves was excellent, taking marks and kicking goals with ease. It didn't really seem to matter who he was up against. And for South Australia in the U18 Championships, he continued on with that form and was unlucky to miss out on All Australian honours. Despite this, I have been trying to downplay the hype a bit as he still had some way to go - for example in February he weighed in at 104kg, with high skin folds and only just broke level 10 on the beep test. But he has already dropped 7kg, and his running power has definitely improved too judging from his work in the ruck and at CHF. He does project best as a stay at home full forward though, being strong in the air and on the lead. With his form and the work he has put in this year, he certainly deserves being talked about as an early selection but I feel there is still a long way to go and he might be more in the 30-50 range.

43. West Coast - Malcolm Karpany (176cm, 72kg forward - Woodville West Torrens)

It's not very often that the media rate a South Australian higher than I do, usually they don't know we even exist over the border. But, when it comes to Malcolm Karpany that just might be the case. Don't get me wrong, I do like him as a player I'm just entirely convinced and almost prefer some of the other South Australian smalls. He has a had a great season at every level - solid performer at the U18 Championships, has made his SANFL league debut and was BOG in the U18s Grand Final. He moves around opponents probably better than anyone in the draft, just has really quick feet and is almost impossible to get a hand on at times. His kicking is also a joy to watch, and he gets reasonable power for a little bloke. My question is whether he becomes a midfielder or not. His midfield game progressed as the season went on, and he slowly started winning more of his own ball and positioned himself better on the outside too. But at the moment, he is still primarily a half forward - although having said that, a pretty dangerous one.

44. Sydney - Darcy Byrne-Jones (180cm, 69kg defender - Oakleigh)

Another player who has increasing his standing over the last month, I initially had Darcy Byrne-Jones as a late/rookie pick. But his numbers at the Combine were excellent, so I went back and looked a bit more closely at his game. And I came away quite impressed. The most pleasing thing, was that he actually looks like a footballer as opposed to just an athlete. He has all the numbers of an athlete - top 10s in the sprints, agility and beep test. But, I imagine would also have tested quite well for his kicking. He puts good touch on the ball, and most importantly he knows his limitations. And I can't stress how important that is. Because once the pressure levels go up in the AFL, you don't want a player to panic and forget what he can and can't do. The question for Byrne-Jones and why I have him lower than some others, is because I'm not sure of his midfield scope. I see him as a small defender, and at the moment he doesn't have the body and strength of some of his competition.

45. Port Adelaide - Michael Gibbons (175cm, 71kg midfielder - Murray Bushrangers)

Without a doubt, the star of the U18 Championships. I've been talking him up as a real high value selection later in the draft for some time now, and it seems as though others have followed suit - while I don't agree with how Champion Data analyse the draft prospects, they were bang on about Michael Gibbons. If he were a bit taller, he'd be a much more well known name. But having said that, I don't see him as being too far behind the likes of Taylor and Hartung. Maybe the whole NSW thing is keeping him down? But Gibbons is an absolute ball magnet, averaging well over 25 touches a game this season in the U18s. At the Championships, Gibbons finished second in total disposals, first in tackles and top 5 for clearances. He was a work horse in the middle, and always does the team thing. And for a small, contested midfielder his skills are surprisingly good - particularly his hands. Even if he ends up on a rookie list, he'll play AFL football next year. He is just that type of player. Nothing has stood in his way yet.

46. Adelaide - Orazio Fantasia (176cm, 64kg forward - Norwood)

There are quite a few small forwards on offer in this draft, and not only that but there are a good handful from just South Australia alone. The toughest thing for these players this season wasn't to play well, it was to stand out from the crowd. And Orazio Fantasia did just that in the U18 Championships this year, despite not being on everyone's radar coming into the season. He didn't play in the first round match, but kicked 7 goals in the remaining four games and was arguably the best small forward in the tournament - although the All Australian selectors decided to go with midfielders in the forward pockets. Fantasia has also made his senior SANFL debut this year, spending the rest of his time in the Reserves. He isn't ever going to win much more than 15 disposals, but he is a real livewire up forward and always seems to have a hand in scoring plays. Unselfish player with good speed, he is a genuine crumbing forward with real x-factor. And while he might not be quite as annoying, he reminds me a little of Hayden Ballantyne.

47. North Melbourne - Alex Spina (181cm, 74kg midfielder - North Adelaide)

Another Croweater who is sneaking under the radar a bit, Spina has been one of the better underage players in the SANFL for a number of years now, always playing above his age but being named in the bests regardless of what level he plays. Unfortunately, he has been suffering from some injuries this year which has seen him play a little less than we all would have liked. But he has come back strongly in the SANFL Reserves and in the U18 Championships, generally playing as a high half forward. And like a Robbie Gray or Shaun Higgins, that's where I see him getting a game at the next level. From that position on a flank, he is able to work up the ground as well as back towards the goals and become a pretty dangerous goal sneak. And while he doesn't have the blistering pace that others may have, his game sense is a real highlight and he always positions himself in the right spot. Also has a strong defensive side to his game, and could easily play on the dangerous half backs of the competition.

48. GWS - Rory Lobb (205cm, 98kg ruckman - Swan Districts)

I'm still not 100% sure where I sit in regards to the big 20 year old from WA. I seem to change my mind on Rory Lobb every week - one day I'll rate him as one of the top ruckmen in the draft, and then the next I'll prefer others. I think the reason I still have him going in the middle rounds is because he is those couple of years older, and the current trend is leaning towards drafting the mature aged rucks. I suppose the difference with Lobb though is that he is still reasonably new to the game, not having years of experience at senior level behind him. Body wise, he would be reasonably ready made - he has the size and the athleticism. But he is still developing and learning the craft, so I wouldn't expect a great impact straight up. Ultimately, I see him going earlier than possibly expected due to the progress he has made this year alone in the ruck. Still needs to improve other areas - consistency in his marking game and impact up forward for example.

49. West Coast - James Tsitas (180cm, 77kg midfielder - Geelong)

I almost feel bad for not rating James Tsitas higher than I do. He has done nothing but dominate the U18 scene for the past two years, and his performances alone would warrant a first round pick. And there is a good chance that he still goes inside the top 20. But he just strikes me as one of those blue collar players who always seem to slip into the late second/early third round, and in 5 years time will be considered a huge bargain. Tsitas is a big time ball winner, averaging 20 touches in the U18 Championships and closer to 30 in the TAC Cup. He hits the contests hard and wins his own ball, while also using his near elite endurance to run harder than everyone else going forward. He tackles hard and has a real presence on the field, a bottom four team looking to rebuild would have to consider him highly. He looks every part a 10 year player. But, he isn't the most damaging player. He tends to make good decisions with the ball, but doesn't have a penetrating kick on him and isn't a real impact player up forward either. He isn't flashy, but you could build a team around him.

50. Richmond - Sam Bennett (189cm, 76kg defender - North Ballarat)

I saw a North Ballarat game right at the start of this year, and was instantly drawn to Sam Bennett. Since then, I've been keeping a quiet eye on him and his development throughout the season. He does have some more highly fancied teammates, but I was still a little surprised that literally nobody had even mentioned his name. Although admittedly, I only had him pegged as a State Combine invitee - not the National Combine invite that he ultimately received. But if you really look at what he offers, you can see why he received the invite. He is one of those athletic, almost rangy medium defender types who provides a lot of run off of half back. He has both solid speed and a good endurance base, and knows where to position himself. And for a relatively lightly framed player, he is a good mark. He does have a few knocks - consistency, not a big time ball winner and does need to improve his strength. I see him following a similar career path to Jasper Pittard from Port Adelaide, might take him a few years to really cement a spot but he'll get there.

51. Carlton - Tom Hodgson (185cm, 78kg defender - East Perth)

At the start of the season, I didn't have Tom Hodgson on my radar. I'd seen a bit of him in the WAFL last year, and I thought that one day he might become a decent state league player but even that wasn't a guarantee. Yet he has steadily improved as the season has gone on and now I wouldn't be surprised if he found himself on a senior list next year. Hodgson plays as a small/medium defender, he is a very determined player and sticks to his opponents all day. In the U18 Championships, he pushed further up the field and did a defensive role on James Aish and he did it reasonably well too. Hodgson isn't a big ball winner, typically only gets around the 15 touches a game but he is impressive when given the chance to rebound - I'd rate him as one of the better kicks out of WA this year. For a team looking to add a hard nosed defender or a tagger, I could see Hodgson being a bit of a smokey in this draft.

52. Port Adelaide - Max King (200cm, 89kg forward - NSW/Murray)

Easily my favourite of the New South Welshmen, and one of my favourite talls in the whole draft really. I've been talking him up for some time, heading back to before the U18 Championships this year. He'll take a bit of time as he needs some time in the gym, but I think he could be a very good player at the next level. He is a member of the GWS Academy, one article states he can be prelisted and potentially on-traded prior to the draft - whatever happens, I'd be surprised to see GWS letting him go straight into the draft. King missed a few weeks at the start of the season with injury, but performed strongly for the Bushrangers in the TAC Cup upon his return. He also had a very impressive U18 Championships for NSW, and I'm sure he opened quite a few eyes playing at full forward and rotating through as the #2 ruck - in his 5 games, King kicked 11 goals. He is a strong mark, and really takes the ball at its highest point. And despite being reasonably skinny, he uses his body well and doesn't get pushed around - which helps the crumbers at his feet, as well as the midfielders when he rucks. For such a tall guy, he is a surprisingly good kick and is still willing to get down and dirty when the ball hits the ground. I'm not sure why more people aren't on board to be honest. Athletic 200cm forward/rucks don't grow on trees, and King has a lot of potential. I could see him going as high as the second round.

53. Sydney - Erinn Wasley Black (187cm, 78kg utility - NT Thunder)

I know some people have been disappointed with Erinn Wasley-Black this season, particularly having been an AIS Academy member and talked about as a top 20 player earlier in the season. But I don't know where this disappointment has come from to be honest - it's probably a case of not actually seeing him play any football this year, what with him being a part of the NEAFL as opposed to the TAC Cup. But he has played a lot of senior football and finished quite high in their Rising Star award. In the U18 Championships, he was solid without being spectacular. Unfortunately, he was carrying some extra weight and as a result lost a lot of his speed and agility - weight which he has now lost I should add. But having said that, I thought he showed good signs for the Northern Territory. He played a variety of roles, from running half back to key defender to midfielder. His work in the middle in terms of clearances and contested possessions was particularly promising, and I don't think you can call him a loose outside player anymore. Still projects best as that medium defender, but has shown the versatility that is required at the next level.

54. Geelong - rookie upgrade

55. Essendon - Dallas Willsmore (190cm, 81kg utility - North Ballarat)

Over the last couple of seasons, we've seen a few forwards around the 190cm mark who dominate at U18 level but inevitably get overlooked as they're considered 'too short' to play that same role at the next level. And unfortunately for Dallas Willsmore, he is being unfairly grouped in together with these players. Willsmore isn't too short for a KPP, he is an excellent height for a utility who can play a number of roles. For starters, he doesn't actually play as a genuine KPP - despite what people keep saying. Due to his strong marking, he does line up at full forward at times but his best games this season have been up the ground. He did miss the start of the season through injury, and wasn't at his best for Vic Country in the U18 Championships - he had an impact on the scoreboard, but only showed a glimpse of what he can do. His last month in the TAC Cup however was excellent, finishing with a couple of 20+ disposal games when he pushed further up the ground. He has a strong fitness base with good foot skills, and with his height and aerial ability, I'd be interested in seeing him play down back.

56. Hawthorn - Aaron Christensen (190cm, 76kg midfielder - Calder Cannons)

Yes, I meant to select the Calder version and not the brother of Geelong's Allen. He was one player who really impressed me in the back half of the season, and I think is a real chance to go late in the draft. He has the height that teams are looking for - he is good athletically, and also a strong mark above his head. After a fairly run of the mill 2012 season, Aaron Christensen has really improved his offensive game this year and turned himself into a genuine goal threat off a wing. And that's where I see his future, as that hard running wing who pushes forward. A bit like Isaac Smith, although without the same speed. He has good endurance and agility, with a strong boot on him. Like a lot of his type, he is still largely a project - quite skinny and reasonably inconsistent. But his improvement this season would suggest there is more than something to work with, and could be a good backup plan for teams who miss out on the 190cm midfielders in the first round.

 

[Chris25]

Round 4

57. Melbourne - Jake Pitt (193cm, 76kg defender - West Adelaide)

For me, Jake Pitt is one of the more interesting players in the draft. And arguably, he is one of the most talented players in the draft too. He is highly rated in South Australia, although it seems as though that same level of attention hasn't made it across the border yet. He's a skinny, but versatile tall and that is valuable in this draft - in which pure talent is somewhat lacking. So far, he has played predominantly as a tall defender and it's the role he played at the U18 Championships. Pitt has elite endurance and agility, and he uses it well to rebound from his spot at CHB. He is still a project at sorts, but he isn't afraid to go in hard and he'll push back into the packs when needed. So while he isn't the greatest one on one defender quite yet, he is at least willing to work hard and should improve dramatically in that area - particularly once he puts on more weight, as he is already good in the air. Has neat foot skills too. I initially was hoping to see him play across the CHF line, so maybe that is something to look for in the future and it adds that extra bit of versatility to a lineup.

58. Fremantle - Steven Edwards (182cm, 73kg defender - Claremont)

There has been a lot of talk linking Fremantle to Steven Edwards, and even some suggestions that that could explain his drop off in production in the second half of the season. But teams surely don't do that, do they? He is a rebounding small defender, very much in the Roger Hayden mould - Edwards has that top line agility, side step and ability to fool opponents. He would also arguably have the best foot skills in the whole draft. They don't just look good because of his kicking style - he weights his kicks perfectly, picks the right option and puts the ball where only his teammate can get it. It's absolutely elite. But, his form dropped right off halfway through the season and he just wasn't creating that same amount of run. And at the moment, Edwards is almost solely an attacking defender. His one on one work isn't there, and he doesn't even offer a lot in the tackling game. Has all the skills to make it, and I think he'll be one to step up and improve his game at the next level when he realises he can't get by purely on ability anymore.

59. Hawthorn - rookie upgrade

60. Western Bulldogs - Sean Lemmens (184cm, 76kg defender - Port Adelaide)

Of all the 19 year olds playing in the Championships this season, Lemmens would be competing with Nankervis as the most improved. Last year, he wasn't named in the U18 squad and didn't receive even a state screening invite. He did get a tryout with Port Adelaide prior to the rookie draft, but that's it. So he really has come from nowhere, considering he has played in every game for South Australia this year. Last season, he tended to play more across half forward and he was fine without ever standing out. But this year, he has moved to the back line and has been excellent - consistently being named in the better players, even winning 24 touches against Vic Country. Lemmens is reading the ball really well coming into the defensive 50, and is heavily involved in linking up out of the back line. I think he'll get his chance in the draft this season, and has some good football blood lines - including having Geelong's Allen Christensen as a cousin.

61. West Coast - rookie upgrade

62. Brisbane - Jonathon Freeman (198cm, 95kg forward - Aspley)

So, Jonathon Freeman will be going to Brisbane as part of their Academy. And I think Adelaide made the right choice in bidding their third round selection. As some may recall, I've been talking up Freeman as one of the few genuine KPP options in the middle rounds and I've stated in the past that I would have been willing to bid a third round pick on him. So I think Brisbane will be reasonably happy getting him here. He reminds me a little bit of Matthew Taberner at Fremantle - he is that year older, offers a true marking presence and moves suprisingly well for someone his size. Hasn't really dominated yet and didn't quite have the U18 Championships that I was hoping for, but in a couple of years I think he could be a decent second tall forward.

63. Geelong - rookie upgrade

64. Essendon - rookie upgrade

65. Collingwood - Sam Garstone (195cm, 87kg forward - Perth)

Now I know not everyone agrees with me, but I do really quite like Sam Garstone. I liked what he showed as an underaged player, and although he hasn't quite hit his straps this season I feel like there is still enough to come for someone to take a chance. Whatever happens, it will be a few years down the track. But he could be anywhere from an Aaron Black type to a Joel Houghton who gets delisted after just a couple of seasons. Unfortunately he missed the U18 Championships through injury. I would have loved to have seen him play, and would have been interested to see how the WA forward line would have set up. Garstone is more your mobile second tall as opposed to genuine full forward. He leads well, presenting decisively. Also marks strongly on the end of the lead, although his contested marking could still use some improvement. He's strong athletically, and I think would be worth a punt - particularly as a rookie.

66. Richmond - Darcy Cameron (203cm, 98kg ruckman - Claremont)

Just in case armchair scouting wasn't already hard enough, clubs have seemingly changed their tune completely when it comes to ruckmen. In the last couple of years, it seems as though teams have shied away from drafting developing rucks early instead preferring to take them as rookies. We saw one of the most promising rucks in recent years last season, slip to the end of the first round. So where does that leave Darcy Cameron? I have no idea. Personally, I rate him as the #1 ruck in the draft and by quite some way too. He has been having a huge impact leading the ruck back home for Claremont, and what sets him apart from others is that he is just as good around the ground. He is a very athletic young ruckman running through the midfield, who can also go forward and take a strong grab. I think he plays a little like Zac Clarke, although slightly more advanced in terms of ruckwork at the same age. I've heard some people suggest he could play as a forward, but I wouldn't expect anything more than him resting up forward. He would have been a first round pick a few years ago, not so sure how teams will rate him now though.

67. Carlton - Luke Reynolds (188cm, 86kg forward - Port Adelaide)

Playing as the third 'tall' forward for South Australia in the U18 Championships this year, Reynolds went largely under the radar with most of the attention going to his taller teammates. But he played really well in his role, and if he is setting himself up nicely to play a similar role at the next level. Despite being under 190cm, he is very strong above his head and like Darcy Hourigan he is more than competitive in one on one contests. And with ball in hand, he is a very good looking kick - can kick it well over 50m, and hit his teammates lace out. So while I've talked him up as a forward, I could see him being developed as a Josh Hunt/Shannon Hurn style defender too. Back home in the SANFL, he has largely been playing reserves and has seen time in the midfield rotations. Not sure if that will continue at AFL level, because he isn't a big ball winner and despite his size isn't really your bulldozing inside midfielder type. I see him sliding in the draft though due to a lack of speed and average athleticism.

68. Port Adelaide - Josh Waldhuter (183cm, 87kg defender - Central Districts)

I'm sure people remember the name. Back in 2011, he was one of BigFooty's favourite 18 year olds, apparently was on his way to being a first round draft pick and having a long career. All because of his tackling and long left boot. Well, he went undrafted. Since then, he has been playing at Central Districts and this year cemented a spot in the back pocket of the league side and ended up as one of their most consistent players. He's one of the toughest players going around, he'll throw himself into everything and still tackles as hard as ever. Plus, he doesn't mind getting involved in the rough stuff and wont be intimidated by anyone. He's AFL ready and will add a tough edge to any team. He has really improved his defensive game as the season goes on, shutting down opponents and winning his own ball. With his foot skills, I'd still like to see him get more of the ball because he can really clear a zone. But I see him as one of the more ready made players, and one player who will definitely add to a side.

69. Sydney - Michael Apeness (199cm, 101kg ruckman - Eastern Ranges)​

​

The big forward/ruck, I just can't have him as high as what others are saying. He has come along way this season, and definitely looks best up forward. I'm not sure he'll be anything more than a depth option though.​

70. Fremantle - rookie upgrade

71. Hawthorn - rookie upgrade

Round 5

72. GWS - Zachary Merrett (178cm, 73cm midfielder - Sandringham)

At this stage, Zachary is probably best known as being the younger brother of Essendon's Jackson Merrett. Although having said that, some have talked about him as a late first round pick so he is obviously getting some attention himself. I don't see it myself, and I don't really agree with people making the obvious player comparison - his brother. They're different players for me, and for starters Zac is almost 10cm shorter. So while he is a quick, outside midfielder with decent foot skills, that height immediately puts him into a different category. He does have a strong endurance base, which allows him to rack up the disposals and he does always seem to be involved in one way or another. But, he doesn't have a real impact in the forward half. And particularly as a shorter outside midfielder, kicking goals is something he really needs to add to his game. Also, considering his kicking is supposed to be a strength I thought he was quite disappointing by foot for Vic Country. I'll be interested to see what position he is developed into.

73. GWS - Hugh Beasley (192cm, 87kg defender - Oakleigh)

The final pick of my draft, I really wanted to get Hugh Beasley in there somewhere and feel like he could go a bit earlier than this on draft day. Ideally, he'd be a little bit taller but having said that he has played on tall opponents all season (including Tom Boyd) and more often than not he has come out on top. Beasley backs himself in, and is strong in the air - both marking and spoiling. But his strength is clearly his speed, not many tall defenders have recorded sprint times like him. It seems every year, that forwards are getting taller and faster. Whereas defenders have largely stayed the same. Well, no forward is going to burn Beasley on the lead. Needs to become a bit more of a factor in the rebounding game, as he could be a real asset with his speed with opposition teams needing to look out for him. If it wasn't for injury this year, I feel like he could have been one of the first tall defenders picked.

74. West Coast - rookie upgrade

75. Brisbane - rookie upgrade

76. Adelaide - rookie upgrade

77. Collingwood - Jay Kennedy Harris (173cm, 68kg forward - Oakleigh)

Midway through the season, Jay Kennedy Harris was getting quite a bit of attention - being talked up as a potential top 20 selection. A lot of that talk seems to have quietened down more recently, and I personally think that's closer to the mark. I don't rate him as highly as other similar players, and it may be size related. Admittedly he is far from just an outside player - he is surprisingly strong in his core which, coupled with his speed and agility, sees him break through tackles with relative ease at U18 level. And apparently nobody told him that he is so small, because he throws himself into the contests and tackles well. Last year, he played primarily as a small forward and he did it well. He has a real sense of where the goals are, and could make all the trick shots. This year, he has moved into the midfield and is setting the goals up, as opposed to kicking them himself. So while his goals have dried up a bit, I imagine recruiters would be more than happy with that as it shows his versatility and midfield ability. I'm just not sure he will be able to translate that midfield game to AFL level, and I feel like he will only be a stay at home small forward.

78. Richmond - Nicholas Bourke (188cm, 80kg utility - Geelong)

Coming into the season, Nick Bourke was another player who had quite big wraps on him but perhaps hasn't quite come on as many would have hoped. To be fair, he has had a pretty good year in the TAC Cup but he hasn't really dominated games. And more importantly, I don't feel as though he has completely nailed down a position. And that's why I think he could slip in the draft. Bourke is predominantly an outside player, links up and runs hard when he has the ball. And playing as a half forward, he leads well and has strong hands but hasn't really impacted on the scoreboard at all. Ultimately I think his best position will be across half back - a bit like Elliot Yeo. He has a big left boot on him, and with his run could be a genuine 80m+ player. Sometimes I feel as though he just doesn't get involved enough in the midfield, so I think he'd benefit from being able to sit back and read the play.

79. Carlton - Jason Cooke (184cm, 80kg midfielder - Calder Cannons)

A kid I've been really keen on for about 18 months, missed a lot of this season through injury. Running, outside midfielder with a good boot and can go forward. An outside chance.

80. Sydney - rookie upgrade

Round 6

81. GWS - rookie upgrade

82. Melbourne - rookie upgrade

83. St Kilda - rookie upgrade

84. Western Bulldogs - rookie upgrade

85. West Coast - rookie upgrade

86. Adelaide - rookie upgrade

87. Collingwood - Mitch Honeychurch (175cm, 65kg midfielder - Eastern Ranges)

If you're looking for a flashy player, then Mitch Honeychurch might not be your man. But if you're looking for a guy who will give his all in everything he does, then you'd have to be considering him from the second round onwards. Honeychurch overcame two separate broken bones at the start of the season, and with limited game time went on to be All Australian and MVP for Vic Metro at the U18 Championships. I like him a little bit to Lachie Neale from Fremantle, he is only a small player but he throws himself into the packs, chases hard and tackles strongly. Without much fanfare, he consistently wins 20+ disposals and can have a real impact on the clearances. What sets him apart from similar players though, is that he regularly kicks goals and can play as a stay at home small forward. Like I said, he isn't the most exciting player to watch but he'll do absolutely everything possible to ensure he has a long career.

88. Richmond - Clayton McCartney (178cm, 74kg forward - Dandenong)

There really are a lot of small forwards in this draft, and Clayton McCartney is one I've always liked. He just that extra little bit of size that some others don't, what with being closer to the 180cm mark and being reasonably strong in his body. But I may be alone in rating him highly, as he only received a State Screening invite unlike some of his competition. Inconsistency can be a bit of an issue (but that's true for all small forwards) but what I like is that he has had some genuinely big games - has had a few hauls of 4+ goals. He has good speed, and sitting on the edges of the packs he can be dangerous going forward. He has also worked hard on his game, improving his numbers in both disposals and tackles since last year. He's just a clever player. Consistency, scope for improval and midfield potential would be the criticism. But it's the same for every player his type coming out of the U18s.

89. Carlton - rookie upgrade

90. Sydney - rookie upgrade

Round 7

91. GWS - Pass in order to take Jed Lamb in the PSD

 

[Chris25]

And the rest...

In some sort of an order...

Mitch Thorp (194cm, 89kg forward - South Launceston)

It's not very often the most talked about player in the draft is a 24 year old who has already been delisted by an AFL club once. But Mitch Thorp may well have just changed that. We all know his story by now - drafted at #6 by Hawthorn but was delisted after injuries and immaturity began overshadowing his natural talent. And since then, he has gone back to Tasmania and as captain/coach, he took South Launceston to a grand final win. And now, he is the mature aged forward that every club is talking about. A lot of people have been downplaying his success as he is playing in Tasmania, but you can only beat who you come up against and no other Tasmanian is having his impact - averaging over 20 touches, 10 marks and 4 goals a game. He definitely deserves another chance at the top level and I do think he will be able to come in and perform straight away, but I don't see it being as a true key forward target. He'd be a perfect third tall, playing as a roaming CHF almost like a Justin Westhoff at Port Adelaide.

Alex Pearce (197cm, 82kg utility - Devonport)

I'm a firm believer in taking a chance with late round draft picks, particularly when it comes to key position players. Recent history suggests that teams prefer to wait until the rookie draft, but if you see a player you like, why risk it and wait? And when it comes to KPPs, it's a matter of looking at their individual attributes and assessing their potential. Definitely not an exact science, and all 18 teams will likely have different opinions. And this is where Alex Pearce fits in for me. He has enough AFL attributes to warrant selection, despite never truly dominating performances in game. He is definitely a project and a long one at that, only last year was playing in the U16s as an overaged player. But he reminds me of Marco Paparone, who ended up as a second round selection last season, and Justin Westhoff who is having a great season as a utility. Despite being 197cm, he isn't a true KPP. He is more an oversized flanker, capable of playing in pretty much any position - midfield, wing and at either end of the ground. He'll take a good few years before his body is ready to play as a genuine tall, but until then you'd draft him purely on the back of his height and athleticism.

Tom Barrass (192cm, 81kg defender - Claremont)

Another one of those key position players who stepped up during the Championships, Tom Barrass held down the full back position for West Australia and really took charge of the back half. Directing the traffic and reading the play really is a strength of his as a defender, and it's one of the reasons I rate him higher than others. He isn't the most eye catching defender, but that's certainly not a bad thing. He spoils well, and seems to have a good understanding of when to zone off his opponent. And when he does have the ball in hand, he tends to make the right decisions. Barrass is basically the definition of a late bloomer - until a growth spurt, he wasn't on anyone's radar. Not a part of any underage squads, it was only this season that he was a late call up to the U18 program on the back of a solid start to the year in the WAFL. Could do a Tom Swift and choose to study, but give him a chance from the third round onwards and I think he has better than average odds of making it as a player.

Riley Knight (180cm, 73kg midfielder - Woodville)

Outside of the big midfield names of South Australia, they also have a group of 5-10 midfielders in that second tier. One of the interesting things for me was seeing which of these guys got the first opportunity in the Championships, and which of them stood up. And Riley Knight is certainly one who has stood up, both playing through the midfield and across half forward. And the half forward role that he has been given, is largely a new one for him having been quite an accomplished inside midfielder in the SANFL. While he isn't really a goal sneak type half forward, he has elite endurance and a strong defensive game. And as a midfielder he is real accumulator, with clean disposal. Again, he might not be the most damaging player, but he is a solid player and can perform in a number of roles. He is one player that I could see going earlier than maybe expected.

Alex Spencer (193cm, 83kg defender - Sandringham)

Just quietly, Alex Spencer has had a very good season. Not one who has gained a lot of attention this year, but he has set himself up as one of the best key defenders in the draft. He played every game for Vic Metro in the U18 Championships, played well at TAC Cup level and received a Draft Combine invite. For Vic Metro, he was their starting full back and typically got the big jobs each ewek - and not only did he do reasonably well, he still managed to get involved in some attacking plays too. And that's the type of defender Spencer is - he'll look to peel off his opponent, help out his teammates in the air and rebound. He is a strong mark on the lead and when zoning off his man, but I still think there is room to improve his contested marking. Also showed this year that he can go forward, twice kicking bags of 3 goals in the TAC Cup. Not sure he ever becomes a #1 KPD at AFL level, but I like him as a fairly unassuming second tall.

Jared Jansen (188cm, 91kg midfielder - East Fremantle)

One of those second tier players from Western Australia, Jared Jansen hasn't really been getting the same amount of attention as others from his home state. Personally, I've tended to have him lower down towards the fourth round but I'm not really sure why. Maybe because he reminds me a little bit of Harrison Marsh and Sam Lowrie, two similar sized WA players from last draft - and as we know, Lowrie went undrafted. The good thing, and where he is different to those two, is that he has actually played in the midfield this year after being more of a defensive player in past seasons. He has used his body well in the midfield, but I feel as though his size advantage is the main reason for his strong performances as opposed to being a natural midfielder. He doesn't really have anything that will make you take notice, and as such I feel as though his best chance will be to model his game on someone like a Greg Broughton - medium defender, ball magnet, playing both tall and small.

Nicholas Bourke (188cm, 80kg utility - Geelong)

Coming into the season, Nick Bourke was another player who had quite big wraps on him but perhaps hasn't quite come on as many would have hoped. To be fair, he has had a pretty good year in the TAC Cup but he hasn't really dominated games. And more importantly, I don't feel as though he has completely nailed down a position. And that's why I think he could slip in the draft. Bourke is predominantly an outside player, links up and runs hard when he has the ball. And playing as a half forward, he leads well and has strong hands but hasn't really impacted on the scoreboard at all. Ultimately I think his best position will be across half back - a bit like Elliot Yeo. He has a big left boot on him, and with his run could be a genuine 80m+ player. Sometimes I feel as though he just doesn't get involved enough in the midfield, so I think he'd benefit from being able to sit back and read the play.

Patrick Cripps (188cm, 88kg midfielder - East Fremantle)

As much as I like tall midfielders, I'm not 100% convinced on Patrick Cripps. He has had a remarkable growth spurt over the last two years, one article said he grew up to 20cm in that time. And his body has grown with him too, which often isn't the case and you'll end up with lanky outside midfielders. But, Cripps has been able to develop into a true big bodied inside midfielder - very strong at the stoppages, his clearance work is right up there with the best and he moves through traffic really quite well. Which is all great, but I feel as though he lacks a bit of hurt factor. And similar players in the past have dropped, or gone undrafted. Don't think he'll suffer the same fate, but maybe he wont go quite as high as some think. He isn't particularly quick, and although his kicking is solid, sometimes he can get under the ball a bit and not lower his eyes. Not sold on his versatility either, particularly going forward. He has shown some good signs linking up on the outside, but not sure he is quite using his size to it's full potential outside of the stoppages.

Alex Saunders (180cm, 70kg forward - Gippsland)

Barely seen this kid get a mention on BigFooty, but I rate the small indigenous forward/midfielder just as highly as a number of other similar players in this draft - he just doesn't have the same profile. Chances are Alex Saunders will be more of a rookie selection, he only received a State Combine invite and didn't really dominate the TAC Cup or the U18 Championships for Gippsland Power. But, I think he has shown some real ability. More of a stay at home small forward at the moment, he always looks dangerous and only needs a handful of touches to have an impact - often he'd have less than 10 disposals, yet have a good three or four shots on goal. With a player who doesn't win a lot of ball, you need him to add something in other areas and he does provide good defensive pressure being quite a strong tackler.

Ben Brown (199cm, 99kg forward - Werribee)

I've never been the biggest Ben Brown fan. I wasn't one who got burnt by him in his draft year, and I'm still not convinced he ever becomes much more than a depth player. But, he has had a particularly good season in the VFL as a 21 year old - and he picked a really good time to do so, what with the lack of other options in the draft. Top 10 performances in the agility and vertical leap testing at the Draft Combine have thrust him back into the spotlight a bit, but athleticism was never the reason as to why he was overlooked. Injuries and then never really dominating the Tasmanian scene meant he wasn't high on anyone's list, but the move to Werribee has really paid dividends this season. Brown has very strong hands above his head, just has that knack of clunking marks but is also reasonably good below his knees too. I'm just not sure what role he plays at the next level. He reminds me a little of Mike Pyke - as that 2nd/3rd tall forward, but just without the same ability in the ruck.

And I accidentally deleted my profiles for these players while I was editing my draft and moving things around, but they are others I like and would strongly consider...

Nathan Drummond
Josh Miller
Nathan Gordon
Brady Grey
Jarrad Ellis
Liam Jacka
Dylan Loo
Charlie Cameron
Brenden Abbott
Declan Keilty
Luke Buckby
Lewis Fitzgerald
Nick Favretto
Jed Redden
Jonathon Ross
Elliot Le Grice

 

[Chris25]

A Very Early Look At 2014...

Using this year's ladder as a basic order, I thought I'd take a quick look at next year. It's useful, in that a few clubs will likely be eyeing KPPs next year which may help eventually explain some draft picks this year.

1. GWS - Clem Smith (177cm midfielder - Perth)
2. Melbourne - Peter Wright (201cm ruckman - Calder)
3. St Kilda - Patrick McCartin (192cm forward - Geelong)
4. Western Bulldogs - Hugh Goddard (195cm forward - Geelong)
5. Gold Coast - Lachlan Weller (180cm midfielder - Broadbeach)
6. West Coast - Alec Waterman (182cm midfielder - Claremont)
7. Brisbane - Liam Duggan (182cm midfielder - Western Jets)
8. Adelaide - Sam Durdin (196cm defender - West Adelaide)
9. North Melbourne - Jackson Nelson (186cm midfielder - Geelong)
10. Collingwood - Daniel Capiron (187cm midfielder - Dandenong)
11. Richmond - Christian Petracca (185cm forward - Eastern Ranges)
12. Carlton - Jake Lever (190cm defender - Calder)
13. Port Adelaide - Mac Bower (190cm forward - Norwood)
14. Sydney - Ryan Lim (186cm midfielder - Claremont)
15. Geelong - Tom Lamb (190cm forward - Dandenong)
16. Fremantle - Jesse Watchman (196cm forward - West Adelaide)
17. Hawthorn - Bohdi Walker (182cm midfielder - Gippsland)
18. Essendon - Peter Bampton (182cm midfielder - Norwood)

Typically a year out, it's the midfielders who are impressing and we're waiting to see which KPPs step up to the next level. But, 2014 is different. The top KPPs have already risen to the top, and there is depth too.

Depending on who finishes bottom, I'd expect all three of Wright, McCartin and Goddard to come into calculations - and I'd probably rate them in that order, although I could go either way with the first two. I think McCartin will really show himself to be the top forward on offer next year. And then we have the South Australian bookends in Durdin and Watchman, plus a few more around that 190cm mark who should grow further over the next year - Bower, Lever, Lamb. I have to say, I particularly like Mac Bower from Norwood who can play at either end and has kicked some big bags of goals this season. One of my favourites at the moment.

One player who has already been talked about a bit is the medium forward Christian Petracca. He had some dominating performances in the TAC Cup this year - often kicking multiple goals and winning 20+ touches. I'm not quite as high on him as others appear to be, but at this early stage you can't overlook his form. Just looks a little more Crameri than O'Keefe to me, not that that's necessarily a bad thing.

But, at #1 is Clem Smith. If it were any other team than the KPP stocked Giants, it would probably be different. But Smith is a very exciting prospect, as a half back/midfielder. He doesn't have the size of Jack Martin, but he has just as many tricks.

As for the other midfielders, we have F/S and Academy picks in Waterman and Weller respectively. If their clubs finished so low, they may not go first round. But for the sake of this, I've included them. Duggan is an outside midfielder, and Bampton a strong inside player. Walker is a quick indigenous half back/outside runner who I quite like. And the others (Nelson, Capiron, Lim) are athletic half back/midfielders, although all three should shift permanently into the midfield next season.

Some players will drop right off, and others will step up. But it's just a quick list of those to keep an eye on, and what the teams will have in the back of their minds come draft day.

 

[Chris25]

Instead of updating a 10 month old thread, we'll continue new here.

 

[RedmanWasHere]

Consider this subbed.

Look forward to more names being added to the prospects.

 

[Chris25]

Added the second round. The draft really drops off after Dumont, Miller and Jones.

 

[Sunny_]

Still not really convinced on Marsh at #5! Will have to wait and see I suppose.

Also, will #5 be way too high for Acres? Apparently the Suns have talked to him quite a lot.

 

[Chris25]

I just can't see why teams would overlook Marsh. When was the last time we saw someone who could run that fast at 192cm? For all the talk of 'only being a third tall forward', well what about Scharenberg? He might only be a third tall defender, yet nobody is marking him down for it. Marsh is one of the new breeds of footballers - able to play as a KPP or a midfielder. Not that much different to Bontempelli really.

Realistically, Marsh wont go top 5. But, there is a distinct drop in quality come the second round of this draft. Teams with a clear vision for the future and trust in their development coaches would be stupid to let him slip through.

As for Acres, well I have him at #6 so I personally would say #5 isn't too early. But it would surprise me if he went that early. Chances are they'd more be looking at him for their compensation pick. He looks to be a really good prospect though, and is another one of those tall midfielders. I think he'll fall somewhere in between when the Suns are picking.

 

[tigs2010]

Added the second round. The draft really drops off after Dumont, Miller and Jones.

Agree, clubs with good development programs should pull a few out while clubs that don't get left behind. Few guys have a few nice attributes but have a lot of weaknesses too.

 

[SumTingWong]

Added the second round. The draft really drops off after Dumont, Miller and Jones.

Maybe the expert football commentators in the media should do some research instead of criticising our use of pick 31-31 to pick up Hampson then?

 

[Ducky Tie]

Would be staggered if we passed up Dumont if he is available at our second pick.

 

[Quigley]

Good to see Glenn and Templeton feature in there Chris. Both will be pretty prominant for me as well. I rate both guys.

There are a few in there that I don't like but I will leave that. Marsh is an interesting one adn one I don't agree with you on. He will never be a key position player. Sure he has the height at 193 but he doesn't have the temperment. I see him as a tall winger and lacking in the skills and football smarts to excel in that role. He has height and great pace but I am not sold on the rest of the package.

 

[theGav56]

KPP-wise do you think the Dockers have all their eggs in the McCarthy basket, or would they reach out to someone like Hourigan if he is already gone?

 

[Chris25]

Maybe the expert football commentators in the media should do some research instead of criticising our use of pick 31-31 to pick up Hampson then?

I personally don't think much of the trade, but can see why they made it. It isn't a great draft for ruckmen at all - I don't consider Ben Brown or Toby Nankervis to be genuine AFL level rucks. While Darcy Cameron is a longer term player, and probably wont go all that highly. Which leaves pretty much Rory Lobb. So it's not a bad move, although I do think they slightly overpaid.

Would be staggered if we passed up Dumont if he is available at our second pick.

He would probably be a better fit than Hartung, particularly if St Kilda were to take Kelly or Aish with their first pick. But, I just rate Hartung slightly ahead of Dumont - both could quite easily go first round though.

Good to see Glenn and Templeton feature in there Chris. Both will be pretty prominant for me as well. I rate both guys.

There are a few in there that I don't like but I will leave that. Marsh is an interesting one adn one I don't agree with you on. He will never be a key position player. Sure he has the height at 193 but he doesn't have the temperment. I see him as a tall winger and lacking in the skills and football smarts to excel in that role. He has height and great pace but I am not sold on the rest of the package.

I don't really mind if Marsh becomes a KPP or not. Wherever he plays though, he'll create mismatches. And I'd pick him top 10 as a tall winger. Thought he showed good signs at being able to win the hard ball, as well as using his speed outside. Ultimately though the reason I like him more than most, is because I think he will be a really coachable player. He has taken nicely to playing tall this season, and I think an AFL team could really turn him into something special - whether that's as a midfielder, forward, defender or just a versatile burst player. I'd back myself in.

Good to hear Glenn getting some love, it's a real shame he isn't 100% sold on an AFL career. And will Templeton be your annual surprise top 10 Division 2 player?

 

[Quigley]

I don't need a surprise top 10 pick this year. KK will be in a lot of top 10s and rightly so. Pretty sure I will have Eli in the top 20 though.

 

[Nemisis]

the bullies would love Dumont - sure to become a coaches pet.
I would love Glenn at Port but Hinkley would be wary...

 

[Richo83]

I don't need a surprise top 10 pick this year. KK will be in a lot of top 10s and rightly so. Pretty sure I will have Eli in the top 20 though.

Where do you sit on the debate between Sin City, who thinks Eli is an average kick and Thurlow2Mackie, who thinks Eli is an elite kick?

 

[Zakk Wylde]

If we get Freeman there'll be ectoplasm everywhere !

 

[Thurlow2Mackie]

I don't need a surprise top 10 pick this year. KK will be in a lot of top 10s and rightly so. Pretty sure I will have Eli in the top 20 though.

I'm a fan too. Such a beast at his best. Could easy be thought of as in the best 15 in the draft in ten years time when people look back on it. Could obviously be a dud too given the wrong set of circumstances, like everyone else in the draft, but there is loads to like about Elite mpleton.

Where you going to stick Jake Kolodjashnij? I dare you to go top 25

If Templeton goes to Geelong at pick 32, I'll have to change my name to Thurlow2Templeton and turncoat again

 

[TJ1996]

 

[Chris25]

KPP-wise do you think the Dockers have all their eggs in the McCarthy basket, or would they reach out to someone like Hourigan if he is already gone?

To a certain extent, I do think we'll be pinning most of our hopes on McCarthy being available. I don't see any of the other key forwards as coming into first round equation. It will probably be McCarthy, maybe Marsh and then midfielders in terms of Fremantle's pick.

Having said that, I really like Darcy Hourigan. I'm not convinced he goes anywhere near as early as I have him, wouldn't surprise me if he went later than expected. But certainly one I'd be looking out for. Otherwise, I think Mitch Harvey is more of a late second/third round prospect - and I've seen a lot of him, enough to be a pretty big fan. But he has some things to really work on. And then well, there isn't much.

I would love Glenn at Port but Hinkley would be wary...

I really can't see him going anywhere other than Port or Adelaide. And even then, I still don't see him committing to the life of a 24/7 AFL footballer. But, I think he just adds that last little piece to the Port back line. You've got the run, carry and skills. Now you just need that hard edge. I imagine Zak Jones and James Battersby would come into discussions too for the same reason.

 

[Thurlow2Mackie]

Where do you sit on the debate between Sin City, who thinks Eli is an average kick and Thurlow2Mackie, who thinks Eli is an elite kick?

Won't get into the debate again, but I think it is safe to say that almost everyone who has ever bothered to watch and rate Eli's kicking puts it somewhere between good - elite (being a relative term) and would rate his kicking as a real strength. I'll just pull some supporting quotes from other PDers:

Rahul:

"He consistently hits his targets with these kicks, Templeton's kicking is fantastic"

Knightmare:

"Templeton is a very clean user of the footy and uses it well by hand and foot. ...A real accumulator and has the ability to do some damage with a penetrating kick on him"

Chris25:

"The one thing I really like with Templeton is what he does with the ball in his hands, he is a really creative user of the ball and more often than not he'll hit his target"

Then you look at websites who rate his kicking like...

SCpaige:

"Essendon’s Dyson Heppell, but just with a few more tricks. Very competitive, agile, athletic, great burst of speed (considering he ruptured his Achilles a few years ago), has very good decision making skills, elite ball user"
Bound for Glory:

"Strengths: Racks up the ball, good foot skills, endurance"
"Unlike players with a lower football IQ, he’s a great lateral thinker and he calculates his kicks well. Occasionally he’ll take a risky kick, but usually his skills are sharp enough to execute the kick well"

Don't think a low score on Figjam's kicking test, which tests both sides with equal weighting, is really more valid than observations in match conditions, or hard data like DE.