Draftables
Rookie
- Nov 30, 2020
- 35
- 79
- AFL Club
- Essendon
I'll start with the generic long time reader, first time poster cliché. Been floating around the board the past few months digesting a lot of draft news, opinions and footage and thought I'd start my own little project. I've launched a website the last few days but I'll add all the content in here for an easier read (although maybe slightly less aesthetic). I'll also throw in the socials for it as I try to expand that out a bit and would appreciate the support.
Bit about myself, I have a journalism background mostly working stints in country and local footy and now do a bit of work with Champion Data. Currently have the privilege of capturing some SANFL reserves stuff at the moment which can be lackluster but also not a bad opportunity to see some of the mid tier rated South Australian prospects like Pheonix Spicer and James Borlase.
Anyway here's what's been released from the phantom draft series so far but will expand it out to 50-60 players in the next week and a half.
#1 – Adelaide Crows – Riley Thilthorpe – Key Forward/Ruck – South Australia
200cm – 99kg – Power Ranking #3[/I]
There’s much conjecture about what the Crows will do with the first pick of the national draft however local South Australian Riley Thilthorpe would be a deserving selection. The versatile big man combines his strong aerial ability with an uncanny ability at ground level despite his size. Thilthorpe is physically ready to go at AFL level whether it be in a key forward role or supporting ruckman.
#2 – Western Bulldogs (Matched bid) – Jamarra Ugle-Hagan – Key Forward – Vic Metro
194cm – 84kg – Power Ranking #2[/I]
The powerful and aerially gifted young forward will make his way to the Kennel via the Bulldogs’ NGA. Ugle-Hagan has already drawn comparison to Lance Franklin with his athleticism and raking left boot. His speed and leap were on show at the Vic Metro combine registering a 2.879 second 20m sprint and an 86cm vertical jump.
#3 – North Melbourne – Logan Mcdonald – Key Forward – Western Australia
196cm – 85kg – Power Ranking #1
The West Australian forward has produced one of the standout seasons in this year’s WAFL competition. McDonald kicked 21 goals to earn himself a spot in the WAFL’s Team of the Year. McDonald is a strong one-on-one mark using his ability to read the ball in flight to out maneuver his opponents. When you partner this with his accurate set shot kicking it makes him a lethal and reliable option inside forward 50.
#4 – Sydney Swans – Denver Grainger-Barras – Key Defender – Western Australia
195cm – 78kg – Power Ranking #7[/I]
Grainger-Barras is widely considered this year’s top key defender with the balance to intercept but also lockdown an opponent. The West Australian has displayed an extraordinary ability to read the play and position himself where the incoming kick will go to cut off opposition attacks. He went toe-to-toe with Perth’s Logan McDonald in the WAFL this season and held his head high winning most contests with at least a spoil.
#5 – Hawthorn – Elijah Hollands – Midfielder/Forward – Vic Country
188cm – 85kg – Power Ranking #4[/I]
Highly skilled and composed with ball in hand, Elijah Hollands shapes up as one of the most damaging players of this year’s crop. He displays poise around the contest and a gut-running ability to break lines. The Vic Country junior can also go forward where he is good in the air and can take a strong mark. Hollands would have missed the 2020 season after rupturing his left ACL in February.
#6 – Sydney Swans (Matched bid) – Braeden Campbell – Midfielder/Forward – NSW
180cm – 73kg – Power Ranking #6[/I]
Campbell is an elite left-foot kick with a large range to hit teammates with ease. Campbell has great balance in his game with the ability to damage on the outside with run and carry or to get in-and-under for his own ball. The Swans have a ready-made prospect here who can slot into a role forward or even back as well as his preferred midfield position.
Braeden Campbell was best on ground in last year’s Under-17s NAB All Stars ‘Futures’ clash at the MCG. Image – AFL Photos
#7 – Gold Coast Suns – Will Phillips – Midfielder – Vic Metro
180cm – 79kg – Power Ranking #5[/I]
It’s highly likely the Gold Coast Suns will only take one pick into this year’s draft so they’ll want to make the most of it. With Phillips you have a competitive bull. The inside mid brings aggression and ferocity to the contest, winning the ball and escaping through traffic. Phillips featured in Oakleigh’s 2019 NAB league premiership campaign along side current Suns Matthew Rowell and Noah Anderson.
#8 – Essendon – Tanner Bruhn – Midfielder – Vic Country
182cm – 73kg – Power Ranking #8[/I]
The first of Essendon’s three consecutive picks, provided they don’t try trade up the order. The Bomber’s will do nicely if they can secure the classy midfielder coming from the Geelong Falcons. Bruhn possess the ability to win contested ball then use his skills to set up team mates. He is a workhorse tackler and can also go forward to impact the scoreboard. Despite missing most of the 2019 season due to injury, Bruhn is still considered a worthy top 10 selection.
#9 – Essendon – Archie Perkins – Midfielder/Forward – Vic Metro
188cm – 77kg – Power Ranking #12
Perkins is an excitement machine with a hunger to take on the game at all opportunities. He is explosive at stoppages with a good kick and rarely wastes a possession when delivering the ball forward. Not only does he provide run and carry up the ground, he is also useful inside 50 with a good leap to provide a marking target.
#10 – Essendon – Zach Reid – Key Defender – Vic Country
202cm – 83kg – Power ranking #21
The Bombers are in need of some key position depth with Michael Hurley and Cale Hooker both in their 30s while losing Joe Daniher up forward. Reid presents as one of the better ball users in this draft despite his 200cm frame. The Gippsland Power product has proven his versatility going forward but looks more suited down back. An adequate interceptor but may need to develop his one-on-one defensive craft.
#11 – Port Adelaide (Matched bid) – Lachlan Jones – Defender – South Australia
185cm – 88kg – Power Ranking #9[/I]
The intercepting and rebounding defender is a ready made prospect for Port Adelaide, if they can find a spot for him. Last season’s minor premier have already added to their defensive stocks during the trade period but Jones will provide another piece as they strive to go a step better in 2021. Jones is a powerful kick of the football that can penetrate as he comes out of the backline. He has good size and physical strength making him capable of locking down an opponent at senior level.
#12 – Adelaide Crows – Finlay Macrae – Midfielder – Vic Metro
184cm – 75kg – Power Ranking #13
As the younger sibling it’s always hard to escape the shadow of an older brother, it’s even harder when your older brother is Western Bulldogs gun Jack Macrae. The similarities between the two are already obvious with Finlay showcasing his ability to weave through traffic out of the midfield. Macrae’s real trump card though is his potency to lace the ball out superbly on either side of his body.
#13 – Greater Western Sydney – Heath Chapman – Key Defender – Western Australia
193cm – 81kg – Power Ranking #11
Chapman enters this draft as a valuable intercepting defender with the scope to be much more. If he isn’t intercepting in the air, Chapman uses his football brain to find space and set up play on the rebound. Due to his height he will more suited to a third tall option at AFL level but also has the potential to be moved further up the ground as a tall winger due to his strong endurance capabilities.
#14 – North Melbourne – Nathan O’Driscoll – Midfielder – Western Australia
187cm – 76kg – Power Ranking #16
O’Driscoll is a nice balanced mid with the versatility to be played inside or outside of the contest while also capable of being used behind the ball as a defender. O’Driscoll’s extreme athleticism was on display at the West Australian combine, registering good speed and agility results as well as a respectable 2km time trial. He is clean by hand at the contest but is most suited on the outside where his run, carry and kicking take lead.
#15 – Fremantle – Nik Cox – Key Utility – Vic Metro
200cm – 87kg – Power Ranking #20
Nik Cox stands out as one of the most unique talents on offer draft night. The 200cm giant can be played forward or back due to his size but he isn’t afraid to push up onto a wing with his freakish running ability and speed. Cox provides a good target with his strong marking and can distribute on both feet effectively. While his upside is high, Cox suffers from not having a ‘true’ best position and will take some developing.
#16 – Greater Western Sydney – Oliver Henry – Forward – Vic Country
188cm – 77kg – Power Ranking #10
Henry provides excitement, pace and a nice sense for goals as a forward with a good set of hands. Henry slips a bit here as he fills a niche position of medium-sized, dynamic marking forward. For clubs drafting for position and planning to rebuild, this role can go undervalued and overlooked. However Henry provides a potent point of difference to a forward line and should be highly rated. He is the younger brother of Geelong’s Jack Henry.
#17 – Collingwood – Tom Powell – Midfielder – South Australia
183cm – 74kg – Power Ranking #19
The in-and-under midfielder is one of South Australia’s highest rated prospects after winning the SANFL under 18s best and fairest award on the back of a stellar 2020. The ball-magnet is strong in the contest where he can provide by hand or burst out of a pack with his dash of speed.
#18 – Collingwood (Matched bid) – Reef McInnes – Forward/Midfielder – Vic Metro
192cm – 84kg – Power Ranking #17
After a disaster trade period, Collingwood may still find themselves in a world of hurt with a potential bid for their NGA prospect expected to come somewhere between picks 15-25. Don’t be surprised to see the Pies try move these picks around before or even on draft night. However, McInnes himself is a player worth matching any potential suitors. He has played his best football in the forward line where he reads the play well. He is clean with ball in hand and can also be shifted through the midfield or even in defence.
#19 – Greater Western Sydney – Brayden Cook – Midfielder/Forward – South Australia
189cm – 82kg – Power Ranking #18
Cook has shot up draft boards after an impressive SANFL under 18s campaign. 2020 saw the winger establish himself as a genuine goal threat as he took his game to new levels. A growth spurt and a bag of five goals in September proved he can use his footy smarts get into the right places inside 50. Cook uses his leap and quality overhead marking to provide a dangerous target.
#20 – Richmond – Jack Carroll – Midfielder – Western Australia
187cm – 79kg – Power Ranking #23
Jack Carroll provides as a well-rounded, versatile midfield option who excels at the contest. He is a one touch, first to the ball player who can navigate through congestion with ease. However Carroll has a few more strings to his bow. He can transition to the outside or half-back with minimal fuss and make use of his clean ball skills.
#21 – Melbourne – Bailey Laurie – Forward/Midfielder – Vic Metro
179cm – 78kg – Power Ranking #2[/I]5
The crumbing small forward shows all the attributes of being a complete AFL footballer. Poised, quick and smart when playing forward, Laurie is able to get front and square the make the most of crumbing opportunities. When pushed up the ground he is composed when in possession of the football and services teammates with a lovely kick.
#22 – Melbourne – Eddie Ford – Forward/Midfielder – Vic Metro
189cm – 83kg – Power Ranking #15
One of the wild cards of this years draft pack. Ford presents as a strong marking medium forward with a great leap who can also provide serious pressure when the ball hits the deck. He has the potential to move into a midfield position where he has shown good evasiveness through traffic. The Western Jet prospect displayed some serious glimpses of the player he could be last season and was one in particular who suffered from the Covid-19 lockdown period. Ford has spent time this season studying the craft of Fremantle star Nat Fyfe as a player he wants to eventually emulate.
#23 – Sydney Swans (Matched bid) – Errol Gulden – Forward/Midfielder – New South Wales
175cm – 75kg – Power Ranking #22
The second of Sydney’s highly rated academy prospects, Gulden is a crafty small forward with a wicked sense of pace. He brings a high pressure game to keep opposition defenses on their toes and has no issues with impacting the scoreboard. The small forward is also capable of being used on a wing where he can use his running ability and good foot skills.
#24 – Hawthorn (Matched bid) – Connor Downie – Defender/Midfielder – Vic Metro
185cm – 83kg – Power Ranking #34
Hawthorn will be sweating on where the bid for Downie comes. The Hawks will be hopeful it comes after their current pick 24, but with clubs rating the rebounding defender in the mid 20s don’t be surprised to see them shuffle some picks around on draft night if that bid comes earlier than expected. Downie is a smooth moving defender who can push up onto a wing. He has a penetrating kick that can break lines or even hit the scoreboard from outside 50.
#25 – Greater Western Sydney – Sam Berry – Midfielder – Vic Country
181cm – 83kg – Power Ranking #28
Berry does his best work at stoppages being able to win high contested ball numbers but is also accountable for the opposition with his follow up and tackle work. He has a good running ability and enough pace to break out of the contest and carry the ball forward.
#26 – St. Kilda – Zavier Maher – Midfielder – Vic Country
185cm – 82kg – Power Ranking #26
Maher is a good point-of-difference midfielder who is explosive, damaging and aggressive with ball in hand. He isn’t the type of player who will rack up plenty of possessions but every touch Maher gets is impactful and generates meaningful drive. Has speed out of stoppages and is capable of winning the ball when it is in dispute.
#27 – Adelaide Crows – Caleb Poulter – Midfielder – South Australia
191cm – 77kg – Power Ranking #24
The rangy South Australian midfielder has good balance to his game capable of playing as an insider or outside midfielder when required. At the contest Poulter shows a sound pair of hands and the ability to win the contested ball but can also get outside in space to utilize his good disposal by foot. Athletically gifted with a bit of speed, running capability and some leap to go along with his height.
#28 – Adelaide Crows – Conor Stone – Forward – Vic Metro
188cm – 81kg – Power Ranking #36
Stone is a true medium forward that displays good leading patterns and forward craft inside the front arc. He knows how to hit the scoreboard and can also get up the ground with his running ability to take the game on and create opportunities for himself and teammates.
#29 – Brisbane Lions – Jake Bowey – Midfielder/Utility – Vic Metro
175cm – 66kg – Power Ranking #42
Bowey is lightly built but more than holds his own despite his small frame. He is best suited as an outside mid using his running capabilities and footy smarts to find space that makes the most of his precise kicking. The Vic Metro prospect has shown the ability to swing forward or back using his speed to escape opponents or close them down.
#30 – Gold Coast Suns – Matt Allison – Key Forward – Vic Metro
194cm – 81kg – Power Ranking #30
There is every chance Gold Coast will not hold this pick come draft night with AFL concessions allowing the Suns their priority access academy and Northern Territory zoned players to be added directly to the senior list. However for arguments sake Allison is a more than worthy selection at this point in the draft. The key forward has the ability to run all day with his endurance while his quick lead and strong overhead marking ability makes him a hard prospect to shut down.
#31 – Melbourne – Zane Trew – Midfielder – Western Australia
185cm – 80kg – Power Ranking #29
Trew’s bread and butter is winning contested ball on the inside and releasing teammates away from the stoppage. A good set of one-touch hands, Trew is composed at the contest and one of the cleaner mids at the draft.
#32 – Greater Western Sydney – Jack Ginnivan – Forward – Vic Country
183cm – 77kg – Power Ranking #45
The crafty goal-sneak oozes football smarts as he often finds himself in the best position, working hard into good areas up forward. Has an ability to hit the scoreboard and a nice kick of the football, Ginnivan shows traits of developing into a capable league footballer.
#33 – North Melbourne – Luke Pedlar – Midfield/Forward – South Australia
183cm – 80kg – Power Ranking #38
Pedlar provides aggression and hunger at stoppages with his contested ball winning ability and tackling a feature of his game. His tackling can also be utilized in the forward line acting as a small pressure forward who kicks goals.
#34 – Carlton – Corey Durdin – Forward – South Australia
173cm – 73kg – Power Ranking #31
9 games at SANFL league level in 2020 have proved invaluable experience to the exciting small forward prospect. Durdin possesses pace to burn and an appetite to take on the game at all costs. Despite his short stature Durdin has a fair spring in his step allowing him to leap into contests and mark.
#35 – Fremantle – Shannon Neale – Ruck – Western Australia
202cm – 91kg – Power Ranking #50
The West Australian fits the modern-day ruckman role to a tee. Neale is a tall, athletic prototype with an ability to get around the ground with ease due to his huge tank. He can get forward and kick a goal making him one of the most sort after ruck prospects in this year’s draft.
#36 – Richmond – Jackson Callow – Key Forward – Tasmania
194cm – 101kg – Power Ranking #32
The powerfully built key forward could be the first selection from the Apple Isle. Callow is an elite marking option who times his leads well and kicks reliably from a set shot. Has spent stints in the back-half of the ground but that aspect of his game will require some developing, as well as his lack of athletic attributes.
#37 – Brisbane Lions (Matched bid) – Blake Coleman – Forward – Queensland
181cm – 79kg – Power Ranking #33
Coleman is the younger brother of Brisbane’s Keidean Coleman and should join the the Lion’s via their academy. The small forward is a highlights reel waiting to happen with explosive pace, dangerous pressure and good knack for finding the goals with his footy IQ.
#38 – Carlton – Ryan Angwin – Midfielder – Vic Country
184cm – 72kg – Power Ranking #44
The lightly-built winger from Gippsland will need some strength and developing but the attributes he already possess make him a talent with a lot of upside. Angwin displays a gut running mentality who works hard to get himself to the best possible areas and competes strongly in the air and at ground level.
#39 – Essendon (Matched bid) – Cody Brand – Key Defender – Vic Metro
195cm – 85kg – Power Ranking #48
Brand grew up idolising Essendon legend Dustin Fletcher and the Calder defender should find his way heading to Tullamarine. Brand is a strong one-on-one defender with his ability the shut down opposition forwards his key strength. He will need to add a few more strings to his bow defensively by improving his intercept and rebound game but is versatile enough to be thrown forward and have an impact.
#40 – Fremantle (Matched bid) – Brandon Walker – Defender – Western Australia
184cm – 75kg – Power Ranking #35
Walker is a classy rebounding defender that will take the game on from the back half, breaking lines with his speed and agility. He plays the game at a high pace but still uses the ball well when needed and is defensively sound when intercepting in the air.
#41 – North Melbourne – Zac Dumesny – Defender/Midfielder – South Australia
187cm – 80kg – Power Ranking #37
Dumesny is a clean ball user who reads the play well to intercept and rebound as an attacking defender. The young South Australian notched six senior games in the SANFL this season displaying his versatility to also play as an outside midfielder or go forward.
#42 – Fremantle (Matched bid) – Joel Western – Forward/Midfielder – Western Australia
172cm – 68kg – Power Ranking #41
The second of Fremantle’s Next Generation Academy prospects. Western has burst impact out of the stoppage when utilised as a midfielder but is dangerous up forward when using his pace and and agility to escape defenders. Claremont’s Colts captain has all the attributes to suggest he could even be shifted to defense at AFL level allowing him to capitalise on his speed, skills and football nous out of the back half.
#43 – Adelaide – Isiah Winder – Midfielder/Forward – Western Australia
180cm – 79kg – Power Ranking #39
Winder is an explosive midfielder who can find the goals when played inside 50. The West Australian’s athleticism is his major strength after testing highly at the draft combine. Winder recorded a 90/92cm right/left leap at the vertical jump as well as a 2.873 second 20m sprint, an 8.18 second agility test and a 6:51 (minute:second) 2km time trial.
#44 – Richmond (Matched bid) – Maurice Rioli Jnr – Forward – Northern Territory
173cm – 73kg – Power Ranking #43
It seems another Rioli is destined to join Richmond after the small forward nominated the Tigers as a father-son selection ahead of his other links to Fremantle and Essendon. Rioli is a high pressure, defensive forward who has an uncanny ability to get out of tight spaces and hit the scoreboard.
#45 – Hawthorn – Max Heath – Ruck – Vic Metro
203cm – 94kg – Power Ranking #46
The shutdown of Victoria’s NAB league competition severely hindered Heath’s development as a rising ruck in this year’s draft crop. The Sandringham Dragon made just one appearance in 2019 but after a promising pre-season his draft stocks began to grow. Heath shows good ambition in his follow up work at stoppages and is capable of going forward to present as a tall option.
#46 – Hawthorn – Fraser Rosman – Forward/Midfielder – Vic Metro
194cm – 84kg – Power Ranking #47
Rosman is a prospect that oozes upside with this athleticism and size. Another Sandringham Dragon robbed of a 2020 season, Rosman displayed his speed and endurance at the combine registering a 5:22 2km time trial and 2.896 second 20m sprint. at 194cm Rosman presents as an athletic forward option or a tall marking winger.
#47 – Essendon (Matched bid) – Josh Eyre – Key Forward – Vic Metro
197cm – 85kg – Power Ranking #57
Eyre should be heading to Essendon as part of their Next Generation Academy system and the Bombers will be hoping he can develop into a key forward piece inside 50. The Calder tall has a good reach and overhead marking ability while also showing his endurance to get up the ground and deliver the ball with his deceptively neat foot skills.
#48 – Hawthorn – Harry Sharp – Midfielder – Vic Country
184cm – 70kg – Power Ranking #55
The former steeplechase runner will take some refinement but has all the athletic attributes to suggest he could become an AFL grade player. Sharp recorded a staggering 5:28 in his 2km time trial proving he has the ability to run all day on the outside to find the football and wear down his opponent.
#49 – Melbourne – Kalin Lane – Ruck – Western Australia
204cm – 96kg – Power Ranking #56
The towering West Australian has established himself as one of the premium ruck options in this year’s draft after a strong Colts season with Claremont. Lane has displayed his polished ruck craft being able to hit-out to the advantage of his teammates and also follow up the play.
#50 – Geelong – Henry Walsh – Ruck – Vic Country
202cm – 86kg – Power Ranking #58
The younger brother of Carlton’s Sam Walsh, the Geelong Falcon is a raw and developing ruck that will take some time. He has however shown to be effective at ground level despite his size and is aggressive at the contest.
#51 – Western Bulldogs – Sam Collins – Defender – Tasmania
187cm – 82kg – Power Ranking #49
Collins is a good reader of the play using his leap to intercept and influence contests in the backline. He has a powerful kick that can penetrate lines and break open the game.
#52 – Brisbane – PASS
#53 – Adelaide (Matched bid) – James Borlase – Key Defender – South Australia
192cm – 93kg – Power Ranking #60
The Adelaide Next Generation Academy prospect played a complete 2020 season featuring in u18s and senior football for Sturt at SANFL level. Borlase is good in the air where his ability to take a strong contested mark takes center stage.
#54 – Port Adelaide – Phoenix Spicer – Forward/Midfielder – South Australia
173cm – 64kg – Power Ranking #68
With possibly the best name in the draft, Phoenix Spicer presents as an exhilarating small forward or midfield option. Inside 50 Spicer finds himself in the right areas to impact the scoreboard and when used as a midfielder he posses elite speed to break lines and win the ball.
#55 – West Coast Eagles – Liam Kolar – Key Forward – Vic Metro
195cm – 82kg – Power Ranking #59
Kolar is a developing tall forward with a soccer background but impressive testing at Victoria’s limited combines has seen the Northern Knights’ youngster rocket up draft boards. He posses a huge aerobic capacity and is quick on the lead giving clubs plenty of tools to use as he matures.
#56 – Fremantle – PASS
#57 – St Kilda – Max Holmes – Midfielder – Vic Metro
189cm – 74kg – Power Ranking #73
Holmes does not have a large amount of football under his belt but what he does possess is athleticism and upside. The Sandringham Dragon played just one game as a bottom-ager in 2019 but has the speed and endurance to suggest he has scope to become an outside midfielder at AFL level.
#58 – Collingwood – Kaine Baldwin – Key Forward – South Australia
193cm – 90kg – Power Ranking #40
After suffering an ACL tear in his right knee to start the 2019 season, the luckless forward again partially tore the same ACL in June of this year. However despite his injury history Baldwin still remains in contention to be drafted come December. He is a contested marking presence in the forward line who has good size and strength for his age.
#59 – Collingwood – Brodie Lake – Forward/Midfielder – Northern Territory
185cm – 79kg – Power Ranking #51
Lake was allegeable to be pre-selected by Gold Coast via their academy but it appears the Northern Territory prospect will be overlooked by the Suns. Lake is handy around goals who presents well at the football on a lead and can take a strong overhead mark. He has also displayed the potential to play as a midfielder with his tackling around the contest a highlight.
#60 – St Kilda – Cam Fleeton – Defender – Vic Country
192cm – 81kg – Power Ranking #69
Fleeton was set to co-captain the Geelong Falcons in season 2020 before the competition was postponed and subsequently cancelled. He presents as a versatile defensive option who can lockdown a dangerous opposition forward or when given more freedom can roam the backline to intercept and rebound effectively.
#61 – Collingwood – Nick Stevens – Defender – Vic Country
192cm – 84kg – Power Ranking #66
Stevens is capable of playing as a tall defender but also possess the attributes to rebound as a half-back flanker. He is a good decision maker and a reliable long kick.
#62 – Brisbane – PASS
#63 – Brisbane – PASS
#64 – North Melbourne – Josh Clarke – Defender – Vic Metro
182cm – 75kg – Power Ranking #72
Clarke is an explosive rebounding defender with a piercing left-foot kick. He has pace and a desire to take the game on. While the Eastern Rangers’ prospects holds all the required attacking traits his defensive work will need to be developed at AFL level.
Bit about myself, I have a journalism background mostly working stints in country and local footy and now do a bit of work with Champion Data. Currently have the privilege of capturing some SANFL reserves stuff at the moment which can be lackluster but also not a bad opportunity to see some of the mid tier rated South Australian prospects like Pheonix Spicer and James Borlase.
Anyway here's what's been released from the phantom draft series so far but will expand it out to 50-60 players in the next week and a half.
#1 – Adelaide Crows – Riley Thilthorpe – Key Forward/Ruck – South Australia
200cm – 99kg – Power Ranking #3[/I]
There’s much conjecture about what the Crows will do with the first pick of the national draft however local South Australian Riley Thilthorpe would be a deserving selection. The versatile big man combines his strong aerial ability with an uncanny ability at ground level despite his size. Thilthorpe is physically ready to go at AFL level whether it be in a key forward role or supporting ruckman.
#2 – Western Bulldogs (Matched bid) – Jamarra Ugle-Hagan – Key Forward – Vic Metro
194cm – 84kg – Power Ranking #2[/I]
The powerful and aerially gifted young forward will make his way to the Kennel via the Bulldogs’ NGA. Ugle-Hagan has already drawn comparison to Lance Franklin with his athleticism and raking left boot. His speed and leap were on show at the Vic Metro combine registering a 2.879 second 20m sprint and an 86cm vertical jump.
#3 – North Melbourne – Logan Mcdonald – Key Forward – Western Australia
196cm – 85kg – Power Ranking #1
The West Australian forward has produced one of the standout seasons in this year’s WAFL competition. McDonald kicked 21 goals to earn himself a spot in the WAFL’s Team of the Year. McDonald is a strong one-on-one mark using his ability to read the ball in flight to out maneuver his opponents. When you partner this with his accurate set shot kicking it makes him a lethal and reliable option inside forward 50.
#4 – Sydney Swans – Denver Grainger-Barras – Key Defender – Western Australia
195cm – 78kg – Power Ranking #7[/I]
Grainger-Barras is widely considered this year’s top key defender with the balance to intercept but also lockdown an opponent. The West Australian has displayed an extraordinary ability to read the play and position himself where the incoming kick will go to cut off opposition attacks. He went toe-to-toe with Perth’s Logan McDonald in the WAFL this season and held his head high winning most contests with at least a spoil.
#5 – Hawthorn – Elijah Hollands – Midfielder/Forward – Vic Country
188cm – 85kg – Power Ranking #4[/I]
Highly skilled and composed with ball in hand, Elijah Hollands shapes up as one of the most damaging players of this year’s crop. He displays poise around the contest and a gut-running ability to break lines. The Vic Country junior can also go forward where he is good in the air and can take a strong mark. Hollands would have missed the 2020 season after rupturing his left ACL in February.
#6 – Sydney Swans (Matched bid) – Braeden Campbell – Midfielder/Forward – NSW
180cm – 73kg – Power Ranking #6[/I]
Campbell is an elite left-foot kick with a large range to hit teammates with ease. Campbell has great balance in his game with the ability to damage on the outside with run and carry or to get in-and-under for his own ball. The Swans have a ready-made prospect here who can slot into a role forward or even back as well as his preferred midfield position.
Braeden Campbell was best on ground in last year’s Under-17s NAB All Stars ‘Futures’ clash at the MCG. Image – AFL Photos
#7 – Gold Coast Suns – Will Phillips – Midfielder – Vic Metro
180cm – 79kg – Power Ranking #5[/I]
It’s highly likely the Gold Coast Suns will only take one pick into this year’s draft so they’ll want to make the most of it. With Phillips you have a competitive bull. The inside mid brings aggression and ferocity to the contest, winning the ball and escaping through traffic. Phillips featured in Oakleigh’s 2019 NAB league premiership campaign along side current Suns Matthew Rowell and Noah Anderson.
#8 – Essendon – Tanner Bruhn – Midfielder – Vic Country
182cm – 73kg – Power Ranking #8[/I]
The first of Essendon’s three consecutive picks, provided they don’t try trade up the order. The Bomber’s will do nicely if they can secure the classy midfielder coming from the Geelong Falcons. Bruhn possess the ability to win contested ball then use his skills to set up team mates. He is a workhorse tackler and can also go forward to impact the scoreboard. Despite missing most of the 2019 season due to injury, Bruhn is still considered a worthy top 10 selection.
#9 – Essendon – Archie Perkins – Midfielder/Forward – Vic Metro
188cm – 77kg – Power Ranking #12
Perkins is an excitement machine with a hunger to take on the game at all opportunities. He is explosive at stoppages with a good kick and rarely wastes a possession when delivering the ball forward. Not only does he provide run and carry up the ground, he is also useful inside 50 with a good leap to provide a marking target.
#10 – Essendon – Zach Reid – Key Defender – Vic Country
202cm – 83kg – Power ranking #21
The Bombers are in need of some key position depth with Michael Hurley and Cale Hooker both in their 30s while losing Joe Daniher up forward. Reid presents as one of the better ball users in this draft despite his 200cm frame. The Gippsland Power product has proven his versatility going forward but looks more suited down back. An adequate interceptor but may need to develop his one-on-one defensive craft.
#11 – Port Adelaide (Matched bid) – Lachlan Jones – Defender – South Australia
185cm – 88kg – Power Ranking #9[/I]
The intercepting and rebounding defender is a ready made prospect for Port Adelaide, if they can find a spot for him. Last season’s minor premier have already added to their defensive stocks during the trade period but Jones will provide another piece as they strive to go a step better in 2021. Jones is a powerful kick of the football that can penetrate as he comes out of the backline. He has good size and physical strength making him capable of locking down an opponent at senior level.
#12 – Adelaide Crows – Finlay Macrae – Midfielder – Vic Metro
184cm – 75kg – Power Ranking #13
As the younger sibling it’s always hard to escape the shadow of an older brother, it’s even harder when your older brother is Western Bulldogs gun Jack Macrae. The similarities between the two are already obvious with Finlay showcasing his ability to weave through traffic out of the midfield. Macrae’s real trump card though is his potency to lace the ball out superbly on either side of his body.
#13 – Greater Western Sydney – Heath Chapman – Key Defender – Western Australia
193cm – 81kg – Power Ranking #11
Chapman enters this draft as a valuable intercepting defender with the scope to be much more. If he isn’t intercepting in the air, Chapman uses his football brain to find space and set up play on the rebound. Due to his height he will more suited to a third tall option at AFL level but also has the potential to be moved further up the ground as a tall winger due to his strong endurance capabilities.
#14 – North Melbourne – Nathan O’Driscoll – Midfielder – Western Australia
187cm – 76kg – Power Ranking #16
O’Driscoll is a nice balanced mid with the versatility to be played inside or outside of the contest while also capable of being used behind the ball as a defender. O’Driscoll’s extreme athleticism was on display at the West Australian combine, registering good speed and agility results as well as a respectable 2km time trial. He is clean by hand at the contest but is most suited on the outside where his run, carry and kicking take lead.
#15 – Fremantle – Nik Cox – Key Utility – Vic Metro
200cm – 87kg – Power Ranking #20
Nik Cox stands out as one of the most unique talents on offer draft night. The 200cm giant can be played forward or back due to his size but he isn’t afraid to push up onto a wing with his freakish running ability and speed. Cox provides a good target with his strong marking and can distribute on both feet effectively. While his upside is high, Cox suffers from not having a ‘true’ best position and will take some developing.
#16 – Greater Western Sydney – Oliver Henry – Forward – Vic Country
188cm – 77kg – Power Ranking #10
Henry provides excitement, pace and a nice sense for goals as a forward with a good set of hands. Henry slips a bit here as he fills a niche position of medium-sized, dynamic marking forward. For clubs drafting for position and planning to rebuild, this role can go undervalued and overlooked. However Henry provides a potent point of difference to a forward line and should be highly rated. He is the younger brother of Geelong’s Jack Henry.
#17 – Collingwood – Tom Powell – Midfielder – South Australia
183cm – 74kg – Power Ranking #19
The in-and-under midfielder is one of South Australia’s highest rated prospects after winning the SANFL under 18s best and fairest award on the back of a stellar 2020. The ball-magnet is strong in the contest where he can provide by hand or burst out of a pack with his dash of speed.
#18 – Collingwood (Matched bid) – Reef McInnes – Forward/Midfielder – Vic Metro
192cm – 84kg – Power Ranking #17
After a disaster trade period, Collingwood may still find themselves in a world of hurt with a potential bid for their NGA prospect expected to come somewhere between picks 15-25. Don’t be surprised to see the Pies try move these picks around before or even on draft night. However, McInnes himself is a player worth matching any potential suitors. He has played his best football in the forward line where he reads the play well. He is clean with ball in hand and can also be shifted through the midfield or even in defence.
#19 – Greater Western Sydney – Brayden Cook – Midfielder/Forward – South Australia
189cm – 82kg – Power Ranking #18
Cook has shot up draft boards after an impressive SANFL under 18s campaign. 2020 saw the winger establish himself as a genuine goal threat as he took his game to new levels. A growth spurt and a bag of five goals in September proved he can use his footy smarts get into the right places inside 50. Cook uses his leap and quality overhead marking to provide a dangerous target.
#20 – Richmond – Jack Carroll – Midfielder – Western Australia
187cm – 79kg – Power Ranking #23
Jack Carroll provides as a well-rounded, versatile midfield option who excels at the contest. He is a one touch, first to the ball player who can navigate through congestion with ease. However Carroll has a few more strings to his bow. He can transition to the outside or half-back with minimal fuss and make use of his clean ball skills.
#21 – Melbourne – Bailey Laurie – Forward/Midfielder – Vic Metro
179cm – 78kg – Power Ranking #2[/I]5
The crumbing small forward shows all the attributes of being a complete AFL footballer. Poised, quick and smart when playing forward, Laurie is able to get front and square the make the most of crumbing opportunities. When pushed up the ground he is composed when in possession of the football and services teammates with a lovely kick.
#22 – Melbourne – Eddie Ford – Forward/Midfielder – Vic Metro
189cm – 83kg – Power Ranking #15
One of the wild cards of this years draft pack. Ford presents as a strong marking medium forward with a great leap who can also provide serious pressure when the ball hits the deck. He has the potential to move into a midfield position where he has shown good evasiveness through traffic. The Western Jet prospect displayed some serious glimpses of the player he could be last season and was one in particular who suffered from the Covid-19 lockdown period. Ford has spent time this season studying the craft of Fremantle star Nat Fyfe as a player he wants to eventually emulate.
#23 – Sydney Swans (Matched bid) – Errol Gulden – Forward/Midfielder – New South Wales
175cm – 75kg – Power Ranking #22
The second of Sydney’s highly rated academy prospects, Gulden is a crafty small forward with a wicked sense of pace. He brings a high pressure game to keep opposition defenses on their toes and has no issues with impacting the scoreboard. The small forward is also capable of being used on a wing where he can use his running ability and good foot skills.
#24 – Hawthorn (Matched bid) – Connor Downie – Defender/Midfielder – Vic Metro
185cm – 83kg – Power Ranking #34
Hawthorn will be sweating on where the bid for Downie comes. The Hawks will be hopeful it comes after their current pick 24, but with clubs rating the rebounding defender in the mid 20s don’t be surprised to see them shuffle some picks around on draft night if that bid comes earlier than expected. Downie is a smooth moving defender who can push up onto a wing. He has a penetrating kick that can break lines or even hit the scoreboard from outside 50.
#25 – Greater Western Sydney – Sam Berry – Midfielder – Vic Country
181cm – 83kg – Power Ranking #28
Berry does his best work at stoppages being able to win high contested ball numbers but is also accountable for the opposition with his follow up and tackle work. He has a good running ability and enough pace to break out of the contest and carry the ball forward.
#26 – St. Kilda – Zavier Maher – Midfielder – Vic Country
185cm – 82kg – Power Ranking #26
Maher is a good point-of-difference midfielder who is explosive, damaging and aggressive with ball in hand. He isn’t the type of player who will rack up plenty of possessions but every touch Maher gets is impactful and generates meaningful drive. Has speed out of stoppages and is capable of winning the ball when it is in dispute.
#27 – Adelaide Crows – Caleb Poulter – Midfielder – South Australia
191cm – 77kg – Power Ranking #24
The rangy South Australian midfielder has good balance to his game capable of playing as an insider or outside midfielder when required. At the contest Poulter shows a sound pair of hands and the ability to win the contested ball but can also get outside in space to utilize his good disposal by foot. Athletically gifted with a bit of speed, running capability and some leap to go along with his height.
#28 – Adelaide Crows – Conor Stone – Forward – Vic Metro
188cm – 81kg – Power Ranking #36
Stone is a true medium forward that displays good leading patterns and forward craft inside the front arc. He knows how to hit the scoreboard and can also get up the ground with his running ability to take the game on and create opportunities for himself and teammates.
#29 – Brisbane Lions – Jake Bowey – Midfielder/Utility – Vic Metro
175cm – 66kg – Power Ranking #42
Bowey is lightly built but more than holds his own despite his small frame. He is best suited as an outside mid using his running capabilities and footy smarts to find space that makes the most of his precise kicking. The Vic Metro prospect has shown the ability to swing forward or back using his speed to escape opponents or close them down.
#30 – Gold Coast Suns – Matt Allison – Key Forward – Vic Metro
194cm – 81kg – Power Ranking #30
There is every chance Gold Coast will not hold this pick come draft night with AFL concessions allowing the Suns their priority access academy and Northern Territory zoned players to be added directly to the senior list. However for arguments sake Allison is a more than worthy selection at this point in the draft. The key forward has the ability to run all day with his endurance while his quick lead and strong overhead marking ability makes him a hard prospect to shut down.
#31 – Melbourne – Zane Trew – Midfielder – Western Australia
185cm – 80kg – Power Ranking #29
Trew’s bread and butter is winning contested ball on the inside and releasing teammates away from the stoppage. A good set of one-touch hands, Trew is composed at the contest and one of the cleaner mids at the draft.
#32 – Greater Western Sydney – Jack Ginnivan – Forward – Vic Country
183cm – 77kg – Power Ranking #45
The crafty goal-sneak oozes football smarts as he often finds himself in the best position, working hard into good areas up forward. Has an ability to hit the scoreboard and a nice kick of the football, Ginnivan shows traits of developing into a capable league footballer.
#33 – North Melbourne – Luke Pedlar – Midfield/Forward – South Australia
183cm – 80kg – Power Ranking #38
Pedlar provides aggression and hunger at stoppages with his contested ball winning ability and tackling a feature of his game. His tackling can also be utilized in the forward line acting as a small pressure forward who kicks goals.
#34 – Carlton – Corey Durdin – Forward – South Australia
173cm – 73kg – Power Ranking #31
9 games at SANFL league level in 2020 have proved invaluable experience to the exciting small forward prospect. Durdin possesses pace to burn and an appetite to take on the game at all costs. Despite his short stature Durdin has a fair spring in his step allowing him to leap into contests and mark.
#35 – Fremantle – Shannon Neale – Ruck – Western Australia
202cm – 91kg – Power Ranking #50
The West Australian fits the modern-day ruckman role to a tee. Neale is a tall, athletic prototype with an ability to get around the ground with ease due to his huge tank. He can get forward and kick a goal making him one of the most sort after ruck prospects in this year’s draft.
#36 – Richmond – Jackson Callow – Key Forward – Tasmania
194cm – 101kg – Power Ranking #32
The powerfully built key forward could be the first selection from the Apple Isle. Callow is an elite marking option who times his leads well and kicks reliably from a set shot. Has spent stints in the back-half of the ground but that aspect of his game will require some developing, as well as his lack of athletic attributes.
#37 – Brisbane Lions (Matched bid) – Blake Coleman – Forward – Queensland
181cm – 79kg – Power Ranking #33
Coleman is the younger brother of Brisbane’s Keidean Coleman and should join the the Lion’s via their academy. The small forward is a highlights reel waiting to happen with explosive pace, dangerous pressure and good knack for finding the goals with his footy IQ.
#38 – Carlton – Ryan Angwin – Midfielder – Vic Country
184cm – 72kg – Power Ranking #44
The lightly-built winger from Gippsland will need some strength and developing but the attributes he already possess make him a talent with a lot of upside. Angwin displays a gut running mentality who works hard to get himself to the best possible areas and competes strongly in the air and at ground level.
#39 – Essendon (Matched bid) – Cody Brand – Key Defender – Vic Metro
195cm – 85kg – Power Ranking #48
Brand grew up idolising Essendon legend Dustin Fletcher and the Calder defender should find his way heading to Tullamarine. Brand is a strong one-on-one defender with his ability the shut down opposition forwards his key strength. He will need to add a few more strings to his bow defensively by improving his intercept and rebound game but is versatile enough to be thrown forward and have an impact.
#40 – Fremantle (Matched bid) – Brandon Walker – Defender – Western Australia
184cm – 75kg – Power Ranking #35
Walker is a classy rebounding defender that will take the game on from the back half, breaking lines with his speed and agility. He plays the game at a high pace but still uses the ball well when needed and is defensively sound when intercepting in the air.
#41 – North Melbourne – Zac Dumesny – Defender/Midfielder – South Australia
187cm – 80kg – Power Ranking #37
Dumesny is a clean ball user who reads the play well to intercept and rebound as an attacking defender. The young South Australian notched six senior games in the SANFL this season displaying his versatility to also play as an outside midfielder or go forward.
#42 – Fremantle (Matched bid) – Joel Western – Forward/Midfielder – Western Australia
172cm – 68kg – Power Ranking #41
The second of Fremantle’s Next Generation Academy prospects. Western has burst impact out of the stoppage when utilised as a midfielder but is dangerous up forward when using his pace and and agility to escape defenders. Claremont’s Colts captain has all the attributes to suggest he could even be shifted to defense at AFL level allowing him to capitalise on his speed, skills and football nous out of the back half.
#43 – Adelaide – Isiah Winder – Midfielder/Forward – Western Australia
180cm – 79kg – Power Ranking #39
Winder is an explosive midfielder who can find the goals when played inside 50. The West Australian’s athleticism is his major strength after testing highly at the draft combine. Winder recorded a 90/92cm right/left leap at the vertical jump as well as a 2.873 second 20m sprint, an 8.18 second agility test and a 6:51 (minute:second) 2km time trial.
#44 – Richmond (Matched bid) – Maurice Rioli Jnr – Forward – Northern Territory
173cm – 73kg – Power Ranking #43
It seems another Rioli is destined to join Richmond after the small forward nominated the Tigers as a father-son selection ahead of his other links to Fremantle and Essendon. Rioli is a high pressure, defensive forward who has an uncanny ability to get out of tight spaces and hit the scoreboard.
#45 – Hawthorn – Max Heath – Ruck – Vic Metro
203cm – 94kg – Power Ranking #46
The shutdown of Victoria’s NAB league competition severely hindered Heath’s development as a rising ruck in this year’s draft crop. The Sandringham Dragon made just one appearance in 2019 but after a promising pre-season his draft stocks began to grow. Heath shows good ambition in his follow up work at stoppages and is capable of going forward to present as a tall option.
#46 – Hawthorn – Fraser Rosman – Forward/Midfielder – Vic Metro
194cm – 84kg – Power Ranking #47
Rosman is a prospect that oozes upside with this athleticism and size. Another Sandringham Dragon robbed of a 2020 season, Rosman displayed his speed and endurance at the combine registering a 5:22 2km time trial and 2.896 second 20m sprint. at 194cm Rosman presents as an athletic forward option or a tall marking winger.
#47 – Essendon (Matched bid) – Josh Eyre – Key Forward – Vic Metro
197cm – 85kg – Power Ranking #57
Eyre should be heading to Essendon as part of their Next Generation Academy system and the Bombers will be hoping he can develop into a key forward piece inside 50. The Calder tall has a good reach and overhead marking ability while also showing his endurance to get up the ground and deliver the ball with his deceptively neat foot skills.
#48 – Hawthorn – Harry Sharp – Midfielder – Vic Country
184cm – 70kg – Power Ranking #55
The former steeplechase runner will take some refinement but has all the athletic attributes to suggest he could become an AFL grade player. Sharp recorded a staggering 5:28 in his 2km time trial proving he has the ability to run all day on the outside to find the football and wear down his opponent.
#49 – Melbourne – Kalin Lane – Ruck – Western Australia
204cm – 96kg – Power Ranking #56
The towering West Australian has established himself as one of the premium ruck options in this year’s draft after a strong Colts season with Claremont. Lane has displayed his polished ruck craft being able to hit-out to the advantage of his teammates and also follow up the play.
#50 – Geelong – Henry Walsh – Ruck – Vic Country
202cm – 86kg – Power Ranking #58
The younger brother of Carlton’s Sam Walsh, the Geelong Falcon is a raw and developing ruck that will take some time. He has however shown to be effective at ground level despite his size and is aggressive at the contest.
#51 – Western Bulldogs – Sam Collins – Defender – Tasmania
187cm – 82kg – Power Ranking #49
Collins is a good reader of the play using his leap to intercept and influence contests in the backline. He has a powerful kick that can penetrate lines and break open the game.
#52 – Brisbane – PASS
#53 – Adelaide (Matched bid) – James Borlase – Key Defender – South Australia
192cm – 93kg – Power Ranking #60
The Adelaide Next Generation Academy prospect played a complete 2020 season featuring in u18s and senior football for Sturt at SANFL level. Borlase is good in the air where his ability to take a strong contested mark takes center stage.
#54 – Port Adelaide – Phoenix Spicer – Forward/Midfielder – South Australia
173cm – 64kg – Power Ranking #68
With possibly the best name in the draft, Phoenix Spicer presents as an exhilarating small forward or midfield option. Inside 50 Spicer finds himself in the right areas to impact the scoreboard and when used as a midfielder he posses elite speed to break lines and win the ball.
#55 – West Coast Eagles – Liam Kolar – Key Forward – Vic Metro
195cm – 82kg – Power Ranking #59
Kolar is a developing tall forward with a soccer background but impressive testing at Victoria’s limited combines has seen the Northern Knights’ youngster rocket up draft boards. He posses a huge aerobic capacity and is quick on the lead giving clubs plenty of tools to use as he matures.
#56 – Fremantle – PASS
#57 – St Kilda – Max Holmes – Midfielder – Vic Metro
189cm – 74kg – Power Ranking #73
Holmes does not have a large amount of football under his belt but what he does possess is athleticism and upside. The Sandringham Dragon played just one game as a bottom-ager in 2019 but has the speed and endurance to suggest he has scope to become an outside midfielder at AFL level.
#58 – Collingwood – Kaine Baldwin – Key Forward – South Australia
193cm – 90kg – Power Ranking #40
After suffering an ACL tear in his right knee to start the 2019 season, the luckless forward again partially tore the same ACL in June of this year. However despite his injury history Baldwin still remains in contention to be drafted come December. He is a contested marking presence in the forward line who has good size and strength for his age.
#59 – Collingwood – Brodie Lake – Forward/Midfielder – Northern Territory
185cm – 79kg – Power Ranking #51
Lake was allegeable to be pre-selected by Gold Coast via their academy but it appears the Northern Territory prospect will be overlooked by the Suns. Lake is handy around goals who presents well at the football on a lead and can take a strong overhead mark. He has also displayed the potential to play as a midfielder with his tackling around the contest a highlight.
#60 – St Kilda – Cam Fleeton – Defender – Vic Country
192cm – 81kg – Power Ranking #69
Fleeton was set to co-captain the Geelong Falcons in season 2020 before the competition was postponed and subsequently cancelled. He presents as a versatile defensive option who can lockdown a dangerous opposition forward or when given more freedom can roam the backline to intercept and rebound effectively.
#61 – Collingwood – Nick Stevens – Defender – Vic Country
192cm – 84kg – Power Ranking #66
Stevens is capable of playing as a tall defender but also possess the attributes to rebound as a half-back flanker. He is a good decision maker and a reliable long kick.
#62 – Brisbane – PASS
#63 – Brisbane – PASS
#64 – North Melbourne – Josh Clarke – Defender – Vic Metro
182cm – 75kg – Power Ranking #72
Clarke is an explosive rebounding defender with a piercing left-foot kick. He has pace and a desire to take the game on. While the Eastern Rangers’ prospects holds all the required attacking traits his defensive work will need to be developed at AFL level.
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