Opinion 2023 AFL Draft Prospects

[VitalDread]

Not sure how our rookie spots will be for next year

but wouldn't mind giving Josh Chatfield a chance at AFL
He's developed nicely at Half Back and Half Forward over the last two season
Could def see him making a huge leap in an AFL program

 

[Nat Fyfe]

KEVIN SHEEHAN’S EARLY TOP 30 AFL DRAFT PROSPECTS FOR 2023​

HARLEY REID​

Bendigo Pioneers/Tongala FC/St Joseph’s Echuca​

Date of Birth 18/04/05; Height 185 cm; Weight 85kg
NAB League Average Ranking Points: 152 points (3 games)
An exciting prospect, Reid excelled in the under-18 national championships for Vic Country last year. He played a mix of defence, midfield and forward roles, showcasing his versatility and earning him All-Australian honours. He also won Team of the Year selection in the Talent League, after finishing as runner-up in the Pioneers’ best-and-fairest award. Reid has continued that form into the early part of the season, with his bursts from stoppages and precise ball use both features of his game. He won the Australian under-18s best player award in the AFL Academy squad’s match against Port Adelaide’s SANFL team in April, collecting a team-high 22 disposals (14 contested), six marks and seven clearances in a very impressive performance. Reid has already had a taste of VFL football with Carlton to continue his development leading into this year’s national championships. He suffered a concussion in his second match for the Australian under-18 team in May.

NICK WATSON​

Eastern Ranges/Montrose FC/Caulfield Grammar​

Date of Birth 24/02/05; Height 170 cm; Weight 67kg
NAB League Average Ranking Points: 143 points (3 games)
A small forward, Watson is quick, agile and crafty and has a real appetite for the contest. He is a real jack in the box as well and gave a glimpse of his potential last year as he booted 23 goals across 10 Talent League and national championship matches as a bottom-age prospect. Watson has started this season in good touch, playing expanded roles through the midfield and in defence in his opening three matches in the Coates Talent League. He is averaging 26 disposals (9.7 contested) and has kicked five goals. He was also among the best players for the Australian under 18 team in a representative match against Port Adelaide’s SANFL side as part of Gather Round in April. Watson gathered 18 disposals and kicked one goal that day, splitting his time between forward and defence roles. He again spent some time down back in the Australian under-18 team’s second match against Carlton’s VFL side in May, in which he had 10 disposals and kicked a goal before sitting out the last quarter with a minor ankle issue.

JAKE ROGERS​

Gold Coast Suns Academy/ Broadbeach Cats FC​

Date of Birth 02/03/05; Height 171 cm; Weight 68kg
NAB League Average Ranking Points: 136 points (4 games)
A tenacious livewire for the Suns Academy through the midfield, Rogers is a one-touch player with great vision and creativity. He was another player who performed well as a bottom-aged player with the Allies last year and has developed and matured further since then. He has averaged 26 disposals and 6.3 tackles in the Coates Talent League for the Suns and was one of the Australian under-18 team’s best players against Port Adelaide’s SANFL side in an exhibition match in April. Rogers went on to again shine brightly for the Australian under-18 team in its second match against Carlton’s VFL side in May, gathering 26 disposals and six clearances through the midfield claiming the medal as his team’s best player.

ASHTON MOIR​

Glenelg FC/ Plympton FC​

Date of Birth 15/04/05; Height 188 cm Weight 84kg
SANFL U18 Average Ranking Points: 112 points (2 games)
A medium forward who really caught the eye with his goal kicking and marking ability last year, Moir booted 34 goals in 2022 at club and representative levels. That included a haul of four majors against Western Australia in the last under-18 championships match, as a bottom-age player. His ability to kick the ball with precision on either foot, particularly with set shots for goal, is unique. Moir kicked four goals twice in opening four rounds of the SANFL this season, with one coming at under-18s level and one in the reserves. However, he has been slightly hampered by a hip injury in the early part of the year and is yet to show his full potential.

COLBY McKERCHER​

Tasmanian Devils/ Launceston FC / Launceston College​

Date of Birth 12/04/05; Height 181cm; Weight 72kg
NAB League Average Ranking Points: 146 points (5 games)
A left-footed midfielder with dazzling speed away from the centre of the ground, McKercher also has a penetrating foot. After a very promising season with the Devils and Allies in 2022 as a bottom-age player, he has taken another step this season. McKercher has averaged 31.4 disposals for the Devils and was among the best for the Australian under-18 team in its match against Port Adelaide’s SANFL side in April. He also impressed in a second match with the AFL Academy side against Carlton’s VFL team in May, logging 20 disposals and three clearances through the midfield.

JED WALTER​

Gold Coast Suns Academy/ Palm Beach Currumbin FC​

Date of Birth 08/06/05; Height 194 cm Weight 91kg
NAB League Average Ranking Points: 156 points (4 games)
A strong and powerful tall forward, Walter took all before him at underage level last year. He won All-Australian honours as a bottom-aged player in the under-18 national championships and has reminded all of his strong marking and elite power and skill with a dominant performance in the Coates Talent League in Round 6. He kicked eight goals from his 19 disposals and nine marks against the Northern Territory that day and has averaged 18.3 disposals, 5.5 marks and 4.5 goals from his first four games overall this year. Walter has a real physical presence up forward, with his second efforts and tackling pressure being real features of his game.

DANIEL CURTIN​

Claremont FC/West Coast JFC/Curtin University​

Date of Birth 08/03/05; Height 195 cm; Weight 92kg
WAFL Colts Average Ranking Points: 115 points (3 games)
A left-footed defender of forward, Curtin experienced a frustrating run with injury last season before getting back to play in the Futures game at the MCG on AFL Grand Final day. He excelled for Team Houli with 22 disposals and nine marks in that match, winning best on the ground honours. Curtin’s agility, speed for his size and precise kicking were all features of his game. In the WAFL Colts this season he has also spent time forward and has averaged 16 disposals, 4.7 score involvements and a goal from three games.

ZANE DUURSMA​

Gippsland Power/Foster FC/Foster SC​

Date of Birth-28/08/05; Height 189 cm; Weight 79kg
NAB League Average Ranking Points: 119 points (4 games)
A mercurial forward or midfielder who reads the play exceptionally well, Duursma is strong overhead and deadly accurate around the goals. He has a clever step through congestion and is an elite athlete with his running ability. Duursma has shown enormous promise in the Coates Talent League over the past two years and earnt Team of the Year honours last year as a bottom-aged player. He started this year solidly with the Power, averaging 21.8 disposals and 2 goals from his first four matches. He also had a VFL opportunity with the Casey Demons in Round 6, where he logged 12 disposals. Duursma hails from a talented football family, with his brother Xavier and sister Yasmine on Port Adelaide’s men’s and women’s lists.

RYLEY SANDERS​

Sandringham Dragons FC/ North Launceston FC/Melbourne Grammar​

Date of Birth 21/01/05; Height 186 cm; Weight 85kg
NAB League Average Ranking Points: 152 points (3 games)
A strong-bodied midfielder, Sanders is looking to build on an extremely promising 2022. He was a member of the Sandringham Dragons’ premiership team last year and also represented the Allies as a bottom-aged player. Sanders has stepped up and shown himself to be a talented playmaker this year. He started the season in fine form with the Dragons, averaging 31.7 disposals and 5 tackles in the opening three rounds. He was also another one to catch the eye with a strong performance for the Australian under-18 team in its representative match against Port Adelaide’s SANFL side backing it up in the second match against Carlton’s VFL side as he collected 24 disposals to be one of the side’s best.

DARCY WILSON​

Murray Bushrangers/Wangaratta Rovers FC/The Academy​

Date of Birth 18/08/05; Height 185 cm; Weight 73 kg
NAB League Average Ranking Points: 123 points (5 games)
An elusive and creative forward or wingman, Wilson covers the ground exceptionally well and has innate ability around goals. He is still developing physically but has had an impressive start to this year, averaging 20.6 disposals (8.6 contested) and 1.8 goals across his first five matches for the Bushrangers. Wilson was also among best players for the Australian under-18 team in its match against Port Adelaide’s SANFL side in April, racking up 19 disposals and taking five marks. His running capacity was confirmed when he finished fifth among the Victorians in the YoYo test during pre-season testing in March with a score of 21.08.

KOLTYN THOLSTRUP​

Subiaco FC/Newtown-Condingup JFC/Cunderdin Ag College​

Date of Birth 28/06/05; Height 188 cm; Weight 82kg
WAFL Average Ranking Points: 60 points (5 games)
A talented player with an elite work rate, Tholstrup often plays as a high half-forward and sometimes goes through the midfield. He is a fearless competitor with excellent game sense and is a penetrating kick. Tholstrup played all four games for Western Australia as a bottom-age player in the under-18 national championships last year and acquitted himself well, averaging 13.5 disposals. He was also a strong performer in the Futures game on AFL Grand Final day with 18 disposals for Team Murphy. Tholstrup has a sharp competitive edge which has seen him already play five senior matches in the WAFL this season with a top team in Subiaco.

HARRY DE MATTIA​

Dandenong Stingrays/Edithvale-Aspendale FC/SEDA​

Date of Birth 11/09/05; Height 184 cm; Weight 77kg
NAB League Average Ranking Points: 106 points (6 games)
A midfielder-forward, De Mattia has elite speed and endurance which enables him to get up and down the ground to win the ball both at ground level and overhead. He brings real pressure for his team with his ability to run down tackle against the flow. A left-footer, he opened the Coates Talent League season in great form, averaging 17.8 disposals, 4.2 marks and 5.3 tackles across his first six matches. De Mattia is a dual sport athlete who has mixed his football with cricket. He has represented Victoria at underage level in cricket with distinction and ultimately will need to choose his sporting preference in due course.

ARCHER REID​

Gippsland Power/Inverloch Kongwak FC/Bass Coast College​

Date of Birth 19/09/05; Height 203 cm; Weight 85kg
NAB League Average Ranking Points: 101 points (3 games)
A tall forward who is an exceptional overhead mark, Reid is extremely mobile, good below his knees and has a natural goal sense which makes him a difficult match-up. After performing strongly for the Power last season – including kicking three goals in the preliminary final – he had an injury-interrupted start to 2023. However, Reid is now fully fit once again and is ready to show his undoubted potential in the national championships. Across three matches in the Coates Talent League this year he has averaged 13.7 disposals, 4.7 marks and 1.7 goals. Reid is the younger brother of Essendon defender Zach.

GEORGE STEVENS​

GWV Rebels/ South Warrnambool FC/Emmanuel College​

Date of Birth 14/04/05; Height 189 cm; Weight 94kg
NAB League Average Ranking Points: 148 points (5 games)
A medium defender who could become an inside midfielder in time, Stevens has returned to full fitness and form in the early part of this season after missing the entire 2022 campaign with an ACL injury. He reads the cues to intercept well when playing across half back, is a good decision maker and has a penetrating kick. Stevens has made his presence felt in the Coates Talent League, averaging 25.2 disposals (14.6 contested). He also racked up 31 disposals and four clearances in a Vic Country trial match in April and put his strong leadership on display as he captained the Australian under-18s team in their matches against SANFL and VFL sides. Stevens’ early-season form saw him rewarded with a VFL opportunity with Geelong in Round 6, where he logged 16 disposals.

MITCHELL EDWARDS​

Peel Thunder FC/ South Mandurah FC​

Date of Birth 02/06/05; Height 205 cm; Weight 86kg
WAFL Colts Average Ranking Points: 125 points (4 games)
A ruckman who stood out as a bottom-age player, Edwards led his state team as their first-choice tall in the national championships last year and impressed with his competitiveness and craft. Mobile and strong overhead, he also had a successful season at club level, starring in Peel’s Colt’s premiership win. Edwards has had an injury-interrupted run of late with a corked leg, but is now ready to have a big impact on this year’s under-18 national championships. He has averaged 13.8 disposals and 35.3 hit-outs across his four WAFL Colts games this year.

JACK CALLINAN​

Tasmanian Devils/ Clarence FC​

Date of Birth 07/10/05; Height 177cm; Weight 73 kg
NAB League Average Ranking Points: 125 points (5 games)
A clever small forward, Callinan has started the season on fire in the Coates Talent League. He has booted 16.3 across five games, while averaging 17.4 disposals. Callinan is quick and agile and has innate goal sense. He is the son of former Adelaide Crows and Tasmanian Devils (VFL) star Ian Callinan and looks to have inherited his father’s ball-winning ability and smarts around goal.

NATE CADDY​

Northern Knights/Bundoora FC/Parade College​

Date of Birth-14/07/05; Height 192 cm; Weight 91 kg
NAB League Average Ranking Points: 97 points (3 games)
A strong-marking forward with a vice-like grip overhead and an exciting natural leap, Caddy burst onto the scene last year and was quickly featuring for Vic Metro as a bottom-aged player who provided a lively, athletic target. He has kicked 23 goals in 15 matches in the Coates Talent League over the past two years, while also averaging 5.9 score involvements and 4.5 marks over that time. Caddy has a real physical presence up forward and gave a further glimpse of his potential with a bag of four goals from 20 disposals and six marks in a recent Vic Metro trial match. In a match for Australia’s under-18 side against Carlton’s VFL side in May he also caught the eye with his work in attack, finishing with 14 disposals, four marks and a goal. He has also featured for Carlton in the VFL this season, kicking two goals in a debut against Williamstown. Caddy is the nephew of two-time Richmond premiership star Josh Caddy.

JOEL FREIJAH​

GWV Rebels/ Horsham Saints/Ballarat Clarendon College​

Date of Birth 14/11/05; Height 191 cm; Weight 86kg
NAB League Average Ranking Points: 133 points (6 games)
A wingman who has real composure with the ball, Freijah is clean below his knees and distributes the ball very well. He has been in outstanding form in recent weeks. He produced a best-on-ground performance for the Rebels in Round 4 of the Coates Talent League, kicking six goals from 26 disposals while predominantly playing on a wing. Freijah backed that up with 35 disposals in a Vic Country trial in his very next match. He holds his width when playing on the wing, providing his team with an outlet option with its ball movement. However, he can also play inside, where he uses his vision and footy smarts to set up the play. A strong all-round athlete, Freijah ran a time of 2.98 seconds in the 20 metre sprint during pre-season testing.

RILEY HARDEMAN​

Swan Districts FC/Caversham JFC/Edith Cowan University​

Date of Birth 27/02/05; Height 184 cm; Weight 70kg
WAFL Colts Average Ranking Points: 130 points (2 games)
A left-footed defender with speed, Hardeman is strong overhead and takes ground with his long precision kicking. He impressed as a bottom-age player in under-18 national championships last year and has already debuted at senior level with Swan Districts this season and has gone on to star in the under-18s. Hardeman averaged 22.5 disposals across his first two Colts matches. He had a minor setback with concussion after that but is an exciting prospect on the horizon.

CLAY HALL​

Peel Thunder FC/Harvey Brunswich Leschenault JFC​

Date of Birth 12/05/05; Height 188 cm; Weight 83kg
WAFL Colts Average Ranking Points: 120 points (2 games)
A talented midfielder, Hall had a taste of under-18 national championships last year as he played one match on a wing for his state side. He went on to play well for the remainder of the season in a premiership winning Colts team at Peel. Hall has stepped straight up to senior level this year, playing three senior games in the opening four rounds in the WAFL. Featuring as an inside midfielder, he impressed across those three matches as he averaged 18.7 disposals. He is the son of former West Coast and Geelong forward Derek Hall, but is not eligible under father-son rules given his father played only two games for the Eagles and 74 matches for the Cats.

JORDAN CROFT​

Calder Cannons/Maribyrnong Park FS/Maribyrnong SC​

Date of Birth 12/05/05; Height 200cm; Weight 80kg
NAB League Average Ranking Points: 120 points (4 games)
A tall forward who is lightly-built but extremely athletic, Croft uses his mobility and height to create opportunities as a marking forward. He only fully focused on a potential AFL career last year after pursuing volleyball as his sport, before showing immediate potential for the Cannons. Croft provided a glimpse of his capabilities in a recent Coates Talent League match against the Northern Territory, where he kicked five goals from his 12 disposals and 2 marks. He followed up that performance with four goals for Victoria Metro against the Young Guns in a challenge match, with his speed and precise kicking being features of his game. He is eligible to join the Western Bulldogs under father-son rules given he is the son of former AFL star Matthew Croft, who played 186 games for the club.

WILL PATTON​

West Adelaide FC/ Mitcham FC​

Date of Birth 04/01/05; Height 193 cm, Weight 81kg
SANFL U18 Average Ranking Points: 119 points (5 games)
A composed left-footed defender, Patton has grown a further 3cm in the past 12 months which has allowed him to play on both medium and taller opposition forwards. He uses the ball exceptionally well by hand and foot and sets up the play with his ball use. Patton made an excellent start to this year, averaging 21.8 disposals, 4.6 marks and 3.4 tackles across his first five matches at under-18 level. A state representative in cricket as a junior, he is now fully focused on a potential AFL career and is a member of the AFL Academy.

ETHAN READ​

Gold Coast Suns Academy/Palm Beach Currumbin FC​

Date of Birth 07/08/05; Height 202 cm; Weight 87kg
NAB League Average Ranking Points: 118 points (4 games)
A ruckman or tall forward, Read also looks capable of playing as a tall defender down the track given his skillset. He is a strong overhead mark and an excellent kick and also has the running capacity to cover the ground and win the ball in numerous situations. Read has been in great form for the Suns Academy in the Coates Talent League, averaging 20 disposals, 6 marks and 19.5 hit-outs across his first four matches. He is set to again play for the Allies in the under-18 national championships after impressing as a bottom-aged player last year.

WILL LORENZ​

Oakleigh Chargers/Boroondara Hawks FC/Marcellin College​

Date of Birth-19/02/05; Height 186 cm; Weight 70kg
NAB League Average Ranking Points: 116 points (2 games)
A lightly-built wingman or forward, Lorenz produced some eye-catching matches last year. In a Victorian Futures game against Queensland, he had 32 disposals and kicked three goals. He went on to feature for Team Murphy on the MCG on AFL Grand Final day last year and logged 24 disposals, nine marks and a goal to give a further indication of his undoubted potential. A left-footer who has good speed and a neat step through traffic, Lorenz had a disrupted summer due to injury but is now back on track. He played two of the first three games in the Coates Talent League, averaging 20 disposals (13 uncontested) and 6 score involvements. Lorenz is the grandson of former Hawthorn great Graham Arthur.

WILL BROWN​

Sandringham Dragons/East Brighton FC/Kawana Park Eagles FC-Qld​

Date of Birth-16/06/05; Height-194 cm; Weight 85kg
NAB League Average Ranking Points: 115 points (5 games)
A tall midfielder or forward who was a premiership player with the Dragons in his bottom-age year, Brown has been given the responsibility as captain this year. He started the season impressively, averaging 22.4 disposals (11.8 contested), 6.6 clearances and 0.8 goals per game from his first five games in the Coates Talent League after moving into the midfield. He is a player who is a strong contested ball winner and a one-touch player with terrific work ethic.

WILL McCABE​

Central Districts FC/ Tanunda FC/ Sacred Heart College​

Date of Birth 29/09/05; Height 197 cm; Weight 82kg
SANFL U18 Average Ranking Points: 112 points (6 games)
A tall defender who has also gone forward this year, McCabe is continuing to develop nicely. He won All-Australian under-16 honours last year after playing as an approved overage player in the national championships. Playing at under-18s level in the SANFL this season, he has made a very strong start to his year, averaging 20.7 disposals and 5.7 marks across his first six matches. McCabe is a very competitive player who has a good natural leap and is strong overhead. He is eligible to join Hawthorn under the AFL’s father-son rule this year, as the son of former Hawks star Luke McCabe, who played 138 games for the club.

COOPER SIMPSON​

Dandenong Stingrays/Mt Martha FC/Flinders Christian College.​

Date of Birth 13/02/05; Height 182 cm; Weight 76kg
NAB League Average Ranking Points: 106 points (4 games)
An ultra-professional midfielder with pace, composure and great finishing skills, Simpson also has a neat step through traffic and runs hard offensively and defensively. He has shown the ability to perform when challenged and in the big moments when the game is on the line. Simpson has started the season in good touch with the Stingrays, averaging 21 disposals (8.8 contested) in four matches. He then had the opportunity to play both with Casey in the VFL and against Port Adelaide’s SANFL team with the Australian under 18s, giving him an insight into the next level.

ARCHIE ROBERTS​

Sandringham Dragons/Hampton Rovers FC/Haileybury College​

Data of Birth 18/11/05; Height 184 cm; Weight 77kg
NAB League Average Ranking Points: 101 points (3 games)
A left-footed halfback who is a penetrating kick, Roberts is a fine interceptor of the ball and uses his anticipation and clean hands to have an impact. He had an excellent season with the Dragons last year, including racking up 21 disposals in their winning Grand Final side. He went on to log 26 disposals on the MCG on AFL Grand Final day last year as part of the Futures game in another eye-catching performance. Roberts was also among Vic Metro’s best with 25 disposals against the Young Guns and showed off his clean ball handling and good kicking skills despite wet and slippery conditions. He was also good with 17 disposals for Australia’s under-18 team in its match against Carlton’s VFL side in May.

CONNOR O’SULLIVAN​

Murray Bushrangers/ Albury FC/Xavier High School-Albury​

Date of Birth 19/05/05; Height 198 cm; Weight 92 kg
NAB League Average Ranking Points: 120 points (4 games)
A tall forward or defender who has continued to mature physically, O’Sullivan has grown another 3cm and is a player developing his knowledge as a forward and a defender. He has an exciting natural leap, while good speed has been another weapon in his roles either end of the ground. O’Sullivan has been a consistent performer for the Bushrangers in the early part of the season, averaging 19.8 disposals and 7.5 marks in his first four matches. Being from Albury in NSW, he looks set to play with the Allies in the under-18 national championships.

NATHAN PHILACTIDES​

Oakleigh Chargers/ Blackburn FC/Yarra Valley Grammar​

Date of Birth 10/01/05; Height 181 cm; Weight 78 kg
NAB League Average Ranking Points: 82 points (5 games)
A left-footed defender, Philactides burst on the scene last year when he averaged 19.5 disposals across two matches for Vic Metro in the national championships as a bottom-aged player. Coming from an athletics background, he was once ranked in the top-five in the world in the 400 metres hurdles, so it was no surprise when he posted a quick time of 7.9 seconds in the agility test during pre-season testing. Philactides also caught the eye for Vic Metro in its challenge game against the Young Guns, racking up 25 disposals across half-back to finish as one of his team’s best players. He again put his impressive pace and agility on display that day, despite wet conditions. Across five Coates Talent League games this year, he has averaged 19.2 disposals and 6.2 rebound-50s.

Poor Croft, they could not have picked a less flattering photo of him

 

[Mojorisin]

Bergman is more of an outside type but he’d be great on our list.

Of all players we could trade in (that are realistic) Bergman is the one I really want. I would love to develope him on one wing and Bedendo the other.

 

[LittleG]

Of all players we could trade in (that are realistic) Bergman is the one I really want. I would love to develope him on one wing and Bedendo the other.

His kicking hasn’t been great this year. I am keen but he is not worth a first round pick with how often he turns it over. More a mid second in value.

He plays the same position at the moment as Doedee and I much rather Doedee in that role.

 

[Mojorisin]

His kicking hasn’t been great this year. I am keen but he is not worth a first round pick with how often he turns it over. More a mid second in value.

He plays the same position at the moment as Doedee and I much rather Doedee in that role.

It depends what position we are hoping to fill. I would also prefer doedee in defence, I'd also like to get back into the draft after a bid for croft and take the best small/medium defender available. Richards has developed a defensive game I didn't think he was capable of but we need a doc replacement. Michalaney wouldve been perfect.

 

[HK_Bulldog]

At 200cm and 80kgs, Croft is a 3 years away…. It’s going to be a hard choice if he gets bid on in the top 12 or so.

 

[hatescaptcha]

At 200cm and 80kgs, Croft is a 3 years away…. It’s going to be a hard choice if he gets bid on in the top 12 or so.

Don’t think there’s anyway we pass on him nor should we. He has some exciting attributes. More likely that we’ll package some picks up to get a pick in before the bid.


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[dergert]

Croft looked to have a Naughton like ground ball game on the weekend.

Naughton is our best ground ball player in the forward 50- possibly the whole team.

 

[Dogsman16]

At 200cm and 80kgs, Croft is a 3 years away…. It’s going to be a hard choice if he gets bid on in the top 12 or so.

Pick swaps. Pretty good news we should get another top 20 calibre kpp.

 

[TiAn_]

Don’t think there’s anyway we pass on him nor should we. He has some exciting attributes. More likely that we’ll package some picks up to get a pick in before the bid.


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Yeah, you really can’t ever have too much key position talent in the pipeline.

 

[Ash1337]

Lual not in the 30 is good. So maybe he'll slip far enough that dogs can take him.

 

[hatescaptcha]

Need for Reid. Need some powerful, tough players in this side. That also have some speed and skill.


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[BLACAE]

Did the Cannons play yesterday? If so, does anyone know how Croft went? The stats aren't up.

On SM-G990E using BigFooty.com mobile app

 

[BLACAE]

The player I want is Philactides.

Call him Phil

On SM-G990E using BigFooty.com mobile app

 

[Mojorisin]

The player I want is Philactides.

Call him PhilView attachment 1704211

On SM-G990E using BigFooty.com mobile app

I want the wizard.

 

[Smiley Boy]

Did the Cannons play yesterday? If so, does anyone know how Croft went? The stats aren't up.

On SM-G990E using BigFooty.com mobile app

Kicked 3 in a 80 point win

 

[Dogs_r_barking]

I like the sound of Riley Sanders.

 

[weltschmerz]

I like the sound of Riley Sanders.

He's a Tassie boy so we'd have to really back ourselves in, but his Ryley name spelling would add to the Riley, Rhylee, and Rylie we already have across AFL and AFLW.

 

[Mr. Walker]

Kicked 3 in a 80 point win

Does anyone know if he barracks for us. The boy doesn’t seem to be helping the cause atm.

 

[Mojorisin]

He's a Tassie boy so we'd have to really back ourselves in, but his Ryley name spelling would add to the Riley, Rhylee, and Rylie we already have across AFL and AFLW.

Doesn't have strong ties to tassie though.

 

[hatescaptcha]

I’m really into Lance Collard - Has that Shai Bolton

10

Shai Bolton

Age

27

Ht

176cm

Wt

77kg

Pos.

M/F

Career

Season

Last 5

D

12.3

3star

K

6.9

3star

HB

5.4

4star

M

2.8

3star

T

2.9

4star

CL

1.4

4star

D

12.7

3star

K

9.2

4star

HB

3.5

2star

M

3.0

3star

T

2.7

4star

CL

1.8

4star

D

9.2

3star

K

4.6

2star

HB

4.6

4star

M

2.0

3star

T

2.6

4star

CL

0.0

1star

x-factor about him.


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[Bulldogs85]

I’m really into Lance Collard - Has that Shai Bolton x-factor about him.


Sent from my iPhone using BigFooty.com

In West Coast NGA they would be dirty that they can’t match a Bid for him.

 

[VitalDread]

 

[dogwatch]

View attachment 1707930

Croft wearing Astro's number.

Hmmm. Does he know something we don't?

 

[Bulldogs85]

The Age Article

The draft is five months away, but the AFL under-18 championships are underway, and they are the best platform for a prospect to put his name up in lights.

The championships started last weekend and will run until mid-July, including two matches on Sunday between, firstly, South Australia and Victoria Metro, then the Allies and Western Australia.
The Age spoke to the club recruiters set to make or break players’ dreams, as well as AFL Academy coach and former Magpie Tarkyn Lockyer, to get the lowdown on this year’s most promising talents.

Here are 14 young footballers on track to be first-round draft picks in November – with the disclaimer that so much could change in the weeks ahead.

Nate Caddy​

Victoria Metro, key forward, 193 centimetres, 91 kilograms
The nephew of dual premiership Tiger Josh has climbed draft boards after a fractured fibula delayed his season start. Kicked multiple goals in all four games at Talent League and VFL level.
There are recruiters who have fallen in love with his marking prowess, but they want him to tidy up his set-shot kicking.

Lockyer’s take: “Nate’s a real competitor, whose marking is his standout trait among his peers. His ability to launch and take the ball at the highest point he can is terrific, so he’s an exciting prospect.”

Daniel Curtin​

WA, key defender/forward, 195cm, 92kg
Curtin is the best key defender in a draft class lacking those types – but some believe he projects as a third tall. Part of his appeal is his versatility, given he started 2022 as a forward, was the best afield as a defender in the Futures game on AFL grand final day, and showed promise as a midfielder this season. Played down back for the AFL Academy.
He is the leading Western Australian prospect, but recruiters think he needs a strong championships.

Lockyer’s take: “Was curtailed by injury last year, so he missed a heap of footy, but played particularly well in the Futures game. He is versatile, and his strengths are his decision-making and marking.”

Zane Duursma​

Victoria Country, forward/mid, 189cm, 79kg
Duursma’s brother Xavier and sister Yasmin are on Port Adelaide’s AFL and AFLW lists, respectively, while younger sibling Willem is tipped to be drafted in two years’ time. He is a top-three contender and could go as early as No.2. Joined Harley Reid as the only bottom-age players to make the Talent League team of the year in 2022.
Talent scouts want him to increase his work-rate and use his elite running capacity to develop as a midfielder, but love him as a forward.

Lockyer’s take: “Zane’s a smooth mover who competes well in the air, then can clean up at ground level. His finishing by hand and foot is excellent. Most of his work until now has been as a forward, but he’s developing his midfield craft, and, hopefully, we will see him spend more time there.”

Mitch Edwards​

WA, ruck, 205cm, 86kg
There are shades of Tim English and Brodie Grundy

4

Brodie Grundy

Age

32

Ht

202cm

Wt

105kg

Pos.

Ruck

Career

Season

Last 5

D

17.5

4star

K

8.0

3star

HB

9.6

5star

CL

4.1

5star

HO

32.0

5star

D

16.4

4star

K

6.8

3star

HB

9.6

5star

CL

4.0

5star

HO

34.6

5star

D

13.8

4star

K

5.2

2star

HB

8.6

5star

CL

2.6

5star

HO

20.6

5star

in how Edwards plays, but the consensus was it would take a bold club to use a top-10 selection on a skinny ruckman – and he might be a safer choice if you have multiple high picks.

That could change if he performs well at the championships. At the same time, there is plenty of confidence he has a decade-plus-long career ahead of him.

Lockyer’s take: “Mitch is an athletic ruckman who can push forward, and he’s a great competitor. The thing clubs love about Mitch is he’s tall but his work-rate and willingness to get involved at ground level is very good.”

Colby McKercher​

Allies/Tasmania, mid, 182cm, 72kg
One of the biggest risers, to the point he is a likely top-10 selection. McKercher has not had fewer than 31 disposals in any of his Talent League matches, and shone with 27 touches against South Australia last weekend.
He runs hard, wants the ball in his hands, and some think he would be playing AFL games now if he was on a list.

Lockyer’s take: “Colby has a terrific turn of speed and agility – he gets the ball and bursts away. He’s also one of those players who somehow keeps finding the ball, so he’s a pretty exciting prospect.”

Ashton Moir​

SA, forward/wing, 188cm, 84kg
One of the most polarising prospects. Moir’s talent is tantalising, but his stocks have taken a hit in 2023 after he was rated as a potential top-five pick in some quarters at the end of last season.

A hip injury has not helped his cause, but recruiters want to see more from him, including last week’s championships opener. They are still enamoured with his brilliance.

Lockyer’s take: “Ashton is dangerous all the time, whether the ball’s on the ground or in the air. His ability to impact the game in either area is terrific, his skills are good, and he’s a really powerful athlete. He’s carried a bit of an injury, but we’re hoping he can show what he’s got at the championships.”

Connor O’Sullivan​

Victoria Country, key defender/forward, 198cm, 92kg
A raw prospect who will take time to develop at the next level. His running ability – especially for his size – appeals to AFL clubs, as does being able to play at both ends.
He has shown improvement this year, but recruiters want to see more from him. They believe the lack of quality talls in this year’s draft, as well as at the top level, will work in his favour. Projects as a mid-teens selection at this stage.

Lockyer’s take: “Connor can play as a tall back or forward. He has terrific endurance, and his decision-making and contest work are excellent. He’s played mainly as a key back, but he can go forward as well.”

Ethan Read​

Allies/Gold Coast Suns academy, ruck/forward, 202cm, 87kg
Read is roaring up the draft order, in large part because of his running capacity and follow-up work, which reminds some recruiters of premiership Demon, and now Docker, Luke Jackson

9

Luke Jackson

Age

24

Ht

199cm

Wt

102kg

Pos.

F/R

Career

Season

Last 5

D

8.3

2star

K

3.3

1star

HB

5.0

4star

M

1.5

2star

T

1.0

3star

G

0.3

3star

D

8.3

2star

K

3.3

1star

HB

5.0

3star

M

1.5

2star

T

1.0

2star

G

0.3

3star

D

8.3

3star

K

3.3

2star

HB

5.0

4star

M

1.5

2star

T

1.0

3star

G

0.3

3star

.

His ruckwork is still coming along, but he is showing he can be effective as a forward as well. Talent scouts believe Gold Coast will pay a high price for him, somewhere around the top 10.

Lockyer’s take: “He competes well in the ruck and the air, but his ability to run up and down the ground is what sets him apart from the other talls. He’s the one with the tank.”

Harley Reid​

Victoria Country, mid/forward, 185cm, 85kg
The best prospect in this year’s crop. The Dustin Martin comparisons – he, too, boasts a fearsome fend-off, and can play midfield and forward – have been around for a while, and he is considered more advanced than Christian Petracca

3

Christian Petracca

Age

30

Ht

187cm

Wt

94kg

Pos.

M/F

Career

Season

Last 5

D

19.4

5star

K

9.5

4star

HB

9.8

5star

M

3.5

4star

T

3.0

5star

CL

2.5

4star

D

24.4

5star

K

10.4

4star

HB

14.0

5star

M

3.5

3star

T

3.6

4star

CL

3.4

4star

D

19.0

5star

K

7.8

3star

HB

11.2

5star

M

3.0

3star

T

3.8

5star

CL

2.0

4star

at the same age.

The knock on Reid is that he still needs to build a better engine to be an on-ball force at the highest level, but he is expected to make an immediate impact in attack while he develops that.

Lockyer’s take: “Harley’s demonstrated that he can make a significant impact in any area of the ground. He played predominantly as a mid-forward last year, then played for Vic Country as a high half-back – and he made the All-Australian team.

“He loves to compete, loves the contest, and makes really good decisions. Harley’s tackled head-on any challenge placed in front of him.”

Jake Rogers​

Allies/Gold Coast Suns academy, mid, 172cm, 68kg
Too small, you say? Recruiters don’t think so. They pointed to Lachie Neale

9

Lachie Neale

Age

33

Ht

177cm

Wt

84kg

Pos.

Mid

Career

Season

Last 5

D

27.0

5star

K

11.5

4star

HB

15.5

5star

M

4.0

4star

T

3.7

5star

CL

5.9

5star

D

28.3

5star

K

13.9

5star

HB

14.4

5star

M

4.6

4star

T

4.0

5star

CL

5.9

5star

D

12.0

3star

K

4.6

2star

HB

7.4

5star

M

2.0

3star

T

1.0

3star

CL

0.4

3star

and Brent Harvey

Brent Harvey

Age

48

Ht

167cm

Wt

75kg

Pos.

Fwd

Career

Season

Last 5

D

21.3

5star

K

13.2

5star

HB

8.2

5star

M

3.9

4star

T

2.1

4star

G

1.2

4star

No current season stats available

D

6.0

2star

K

3.0

1star

HB

3.0

3star

M

1.2

2star

T

0.6

3star

G

0.6

3star

, while another believes he has a bit of Touk Miller

11

Touk Miller

Age

30

Ht

178cm

Wt

84kg

Pos.

Mid

Career

Season

Last 5

D

21.7

5star

K

9.5

4star

HB

12.3

5star

M

3.7

4star

T

5.4

5star

CL

4.2

5star

D

22.0

5star

K

11.4

4star

HB

10.6

5star

M

2.9

3star

T

4.8

5star

CL

4.1

5star

D

17.8

5star

K

5.8

3star

HB

12.0

5star

M

3.0

3star

T

3.8

5star

CL

3.0

5star

about him.
There is an acceptance that he will spend time as a forward at AFL level, on top of his midfield minutes. However, opinions differed on whether he would attract a top-10 bid. Rogers ticks many boxes: professional, great kid, consistently strong performer, and a team-first attitude.

Lockyer’s take: “His appetite to work, compete, tackle, and chase is excellent, and when he does get his hands on the ball – he’s clean and exciting. He’s developing really well, and particularly his last few weeks have been terrific. He just keeps turning up at the contest, which is a coach’s dream.”

Ryley Sanders​

Allies/Tasmania, mid, 186cm, 85kg
Recruiters are in unison: Sanders is the most in-form midfielder in this year’s class, and on track to comfortably be a top-10 selection. He has impressed with his improved fitness and playing a more selfless role.

One talent scout said his performances could not be faulted, including gathering 35 disposals against South Australia last weekend. Sanders’ father, Adam, is an experienced coach in Tasmania.

Lockyer’s take: “Ryley got a taste with the Allies last year, and was in the AFL Academy as a bottom-ager. His ability to keep finding the footy is a strength of his, and he makes really good decisions and is composed under pressure. He does a lot of stuff really well, and the numbers he’s putting up are amazing.”

Jed Walter​

Allies/Gold Coast Suns academy, key forward, 197cm, 91kg
The widely held belief is he would be the second or third player off the board – behind Reid – if he was not attached to Gold Coast. He might still be if he maintains his red-hot form from the championships’ opener, where he won 17 disposals, had eight scoring shots, and took nine marks.

Walter’s physicality and competitiveness are highly regarded, but his defensive abilities for a key forward also earned rave reviews.

Lockyer’s take: “His power and acceleration in offence and defence are excellent. We saw his willingness to compete in the air for the Allies at the weekend. It doesn’t matter what is in front of him – if the ball is anywhere near him, he will launch at it.”

Nick Watson​

Victoria Metro, forward, 170cm, 67kg
A bums-on-seats future star already being compared with small-forward greats such as Eddie Betts and Stephen Milne

Stephen Milne

Age

46

Ht

176cm

Wt

83kg

Pos.

Fwd

Career

Season

Last 5

D

11.9

3star

K

9.1

4star

HB

2.8

2star

M

3.6

4star

T

1.7

4star

G

2.1

5star

No current season stats available

D

12.4

4star

K

10.6

4star

HB

1.8

2star

M

3.6

4star

T

0.8

3star

G

1.4

5star

. Recruiters
expect him to one day be the best at his position. There are zero concerns about Watson’s height, and he is a contender to be the first player taken after Reid.

He spent time at half-back and in the midfield this year, but projects as a forward who could make centre-bounce cameos, given his smarts and power.

Lockyer’s take: “Your eyes get drawn to him, and he is very exciting to watch. He has an unbelievable turn of speed, really good agility, and is really powerful. He’s got a really exciting array of skills by hand and foot, and he’s pencilled in at the moment as a high half-forward, which is a really difficult role to play.”

Darcy Wilson​

Victoria Country, wing/forward, 185cm, 73kg
Wilson oozes class and excitement and is blessed with a wonderful mix of speed and endurance. Does his best work with Sherrin in hand, and his marking is also a strength, but he needs to improve his contest work, which was a consistent comment from talent scouts. That feature of his game means he, too, is polarising, with some recruiters loving him and others not so much. Some would like him to use his voice more during games as well.

Lockyer’s take: “Darcy Wilson’s gut running, ability to cover the ground, and break lines when he has the ball is excellent. He’s a good ball-user, really damaging, and is certainly one to watch over the next little period.”