The national draft is now just one week away — and like many of the AFL clubs, we’ve settled on our final draft board.
Foxfooty.com.au presents the full and final 2023 AFL Draft Power Rankings, with players rated 1 to 50.
Note: This is not a ‘phantom draft’ predicting where players will be taken across the draft nights.
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1. HARLEY REID
Position: Midfielder/forward
Size: 185cm
Clubs: Bendigo Pioneers/Tongala
AFL player comparison: Dustin Martin
The above picture of Reid almost sums up his draft campaign over the past two years: A powerful, trademark fend-off against a VFL opponent while starring for the AFL Academy’s top team. No matter the level or opposition he’s played, he’s delivered at a high level. He came into the season as the No. 1 draft prospect – one recruiter told foxfooty.com.au at the start of this year Reid was the best talent they‘d ever seen come through the pathway system – and will finish it in the same spot. An explosive, mid-sized prospect who’s drawn comparisons to Dustin Martin and plays with an infectious attitude, Reid can play across any line — and win games from any line. He has power at stoppages, great overhead marking ability, a penetrating kick and a knack for hitting the scoreboard consistently. Reid kicked 5.6 and averaged 20 disposals, 13 contested possessions and a competition-high seven clearances to win Vic Country’s MVP award at the national champs. Reid this year also played for the AFL Academy, Bendigo Pioneers, Carlton’s VFL side, Essendon’s VFL side and Tongala – and you wouldn’t have known he secretly struggled to adapt to the different teams. Also, it’s hard to think of a draft prospect in recent times who’s attracted more attention and headlines than Reid has this year – he was even ‘papped’ at Perth airport then seen signing Eagles gear after a carnival game against WA – but he’s carried himself. Reid should be taken at Pick 1 next week — it’s just a case of which club will hold that pick. North Melbourne, Hawthorn and Melbourne have all made offers for the selection — and could all still make a play for it on draft night. But it now seems most likely Reid will begin his AFL career at West Coast.
2. JED WALTER
Position: Key forward
Size: 195cm
Clubs: Gold Coast Suns Academy/Palm Beach Currumbin
AFL player comparison: Charlie Curnow
There hasn’t been a key forward prospect come through the system like Walter. One recruiter told foxfooty.com.au seeing Walter chase an opponent was like “watching a lion chase a zebra” and that they’d never seen a key forward prospect so willing to apply relentless defensive pressure. A genuine power forward who loves the physicality of the game, Walter prides himself on his competitiveness in the air, ridiculous want to apply forward pressure and speed when running back to goal. After beating up on a few lower-ranked Coates Talent League teams earlier in the year, Walter showed his wares on the national stage for the Allies, booting 11.10 to earn All-Australian selection for the second straight season. He’s so good that a few AFL clubs – and some of his draft class peers – would have Walter ahead of Harley Reid on their draft boards. North Melbourne should bid on Walter with one of their first two picks – and the Suns will be well placed to match it. The prospect of him and Ben King teaming up in the same forward 50 – under the leadership of new coach Damien Hardwick – is mightily tantalising.
3. COLBY MCKERCHER
Position: Midfielder
Size: 182cm
Clubs: Tasmania Devils/Launceston
AFL player comparison: Zach Merrett
Not just the best of a strong Tassie crop, but also the best pure midfield prospect in a draft where most of the top players are outside the centre square. McKercher starred at every level in 2023 — and was rewarded for his elite consistency. He finished second in the Larke Medal voting after averaging 33 disposals, six marks, six clearances and five inside 50s across four national championships games for the Allies then also claimed the Morrish Medal – the award given to the best and fairest player of the Coates Talent League – after kicking 11 goals and averaging 31 disposals from just eight games. Speedy, clean and damaging with a lovely inside-outside balance, McKercher loves to take the game on to break open games and create scores. He isn’t afraid to take the risky option by foot, for he has the kicking skills to often pull it off. All signs point to him being taken by North Melbourne with one of its top-three picks. If not, one of Hawthorn or the Western Bulldogs will pounce soon after.
4. ZANE DUURSMA
Position: Medium forward
Size: 189cm
Clubs: Gippsland Power/Foster
AFL player comparison: Toby Greene
A match-winner in every sense, Duursma surged into our top four after an awesome finish to his Coates Talent League season. His epic form for Gippsland was kickstarted by a dynamic, game-changing performance for Vic Country against Vic Metro at the national carnival, kicking four goals – three in the third quarter to swing the game in his team’s favour – from 22 disposals, 10 marks and five inside 50s. He then turned it on for the Power, booting 20 goals and averaging 26 disposals per outing from his final six games. It was a timely reminder as to why he deserves to be taken at the pointy end of the draft after an indifferent start to the season, Duursma is competitive and strong in the air, explosive out of stoppages, crafty around goal and composed with ball in hand. North Melbourne is very keen on Duursma — and it’s hard to see the Roos passing on him. But if they do, he won’t get past Hawthorn.
5. DANIEL CURTIN
Position: Key defender/midfielder
Size: 195cm
Clubs: Claremont/West Coast
AFL player comparison: Marcus Bontempelli/Matthew Pavlich
Like Harley Reid, Curtin has attracted his fair share of media attention throughout the year, due to a strong West Coast link and being central to Pick 1 trade speculation. The ultimate professional, Curtin showed great versatility across his four carnival games to win WA’s MVP award, averaging 24 disposals, nine contested possessions and five tackles while going at 82 per cent by foot. He played across all three lines for his state — including two full games as a tall on-baller where he covered the ground with a Marcus Bontempelli-like presence — but most clubs see him developing into a composed intercept defender at AFL level. That’s where he played in his six WAFL league games for Claremont in the back-end of the season. Where Curtin lands on draft night, though, remains a mystery. If West Coast trades Pick 1, it’s highly like the club gets a pick back that allows it to still take Curtin early. If the Eagles hold Pick 1 and take Reid, there’s every chance Curtin slides down the order as several clubs with early picks are after ball-winners or hybrid forwards. Hawthorn would weigh up between Curtin and Nick Watson — and should Hawthorn opt for Watson, the Bulldogs would almost certainly overlook Curtin after taking several key position prospects in recent drafts. Melbourne (Pick 6) and Geelong (Pick 8) are expected to consider Curtin should he slip to the latter stages of the top 10 … or if he’s still on the board by Melbourne’s pick, could West Coast trade their future first to get him? It’d be a big price to pay — but he has big potential at AFL level.
6. ETHAN READ
Position: Ruck/midfielder
Size: 200cm
Clubs: Gold Coast Suns Academy/Palm Beach Currumbin
AFL player comparison: Dean Cox
Suns academy teammate Jed Walter said it best: “Ethan is a freak.” Ultimately, there aren’t too many 200cm prospects who can run a 5:56 2km time trial while also having the pinpoint skills and reflexes of a classy midfielder and the ability to play across all three lines. That’s what Damien Hardwick and the Suns will be getting next year in Read, whose awesome workrate and professionalism set him up for a big draft year. He starred for the Allies during the champs, averaging 22 disposals, three clearances, three tackles and 13 hit-outs to be named the All-Australian ruck. Before the carnival, Read averaged 20 disposals, 20 hit-outs and six marks for the Suns academy in the Coates Talent League before one VFL game for the Suns, in which he booted 0.4 from 12 touches. Allies coach Mark McVeigh reckons Read could play a Mark Blicavs-style role at AFL level and fill chasms wherever needed. Melbourne looms as the first club to apply a bid on Read, but the Suns will be hoping he’ll slip to either Geelong or Essendon’s selection. Either way, the Suns will match the bid and acquire a homegrown young gun.
7. NICK WATSON
Position: Small forward
Size: 170cm
Clubs: Eastern Ranges/East Ringwood
AFL player comparison: Tom Papley
‘The Wizard’ will bring AFL fans through the turnstiles for many years, if his fun and dynamic draft campaign is anything to go by. Watson finished as the leading goalkicker of the national carnival, booting 14.6 for Vic Metro as he conjured goals from all angles and scenarios. He also showed he could play further up the field during several games for the Eastern Ranges, including some impressive performances behind the ball. Watson describes himself as an “Energizer Bunny”, in that he likes to apply defensive pressure and get under the skin of his opponents. Unsurprisingly, he’s a big Tom Papley fan. With the ball, he has unbelievable goal sense, speed, finishing ability and cleanliness at ground level. The Western Bulldogs last month acquired Pick 4 in the trade period, with Watson undoubtedly in their mix. Him and Cody Weightman in the same forward line would be entertaining. But whether Watson gets past Hawthorn remains unclear.
8. RYLEY SANDERS
Position: Midfielder
Size: 186cm
Clubs: Sandringham Dragons/North Launceston
AFL player comparison: Adam Treloar
The 2023 ball magnet, few players in this year’s pool showed metronomic consistency across all levels like Sanders did. The Tasmanian product, who boarded at Melbourne Grammar and playing for the Sandringham Dragons, barely played a bad game, thanks to his competitiveness, strong inside-outside balance and clean hands. He took out the prestigious Larke Medal for the best player of the national championships, averaging a whopping 36 disposals, 15 disposals, six inside 50s, six marks and five tackles for the Allies. A brilliant goal against WA — where he sharked a hit-out off WA’s Mitch Edwards, sprinted forward, took a bounce and nailed a kick from just inside the centre square — showcased his burst, power, class and composure in the one passage of play. He also averaged 31 disposals for the Dragons, racking up at least 25 touches in all of his nine games. North Melbourne pushed to have exclusive access to Sanders as part of its special assistance package, but that request was denied. He’s still a Kangaroos North Generation Academy prospect, but there’s little chance he’s still on the board come Pick 10 — let alone the Pick 40 bid threshold — on draft night. And despite the Kangaroos’ attachment to Sanders, it’s unlikely they’ll use a top-three pick on him. The Western Bulldogs and Melbourne, a few picks later, have shown strong interest in Sanders, while the Giants and Cats will be hopeful he slides.
9. CONNOR O’SULLIVAN
Position: Key defender
Size: 198cm
Clubs: Murray Bushrangers/Albury
AFL player comparison: Harris Andrews
There’s been a long queue of clubs interested in O’Sullivan, whose remarkable rise across 2023 has put him in the top-10 mix. A competitive and hard-working beast with a terrific set of hands – both in the air and at ground level – O’Sullivan is a genuine tall utility who can play inside either arc or even in the midfield – although he’s thrived this year playing predominantly as a key defender. Some say he’s the best defender in this year’s pool — even better than Daniel Curtin. He was named the Allies’ MVP – a big honour considering his team’s undefeated carnival campaign – after averaging 18 disposals and a competition-high eight marks. O’Sullivan started the Coates Talent League season as a forward but quickly settled down back, averaging 20 disposals and seven marks across nine games. He knows when to stay on his man and when to peel off and intercept – and he’s equally adept at both arts. Melbourne could consider him with its first pick, but he’s more likely to come into the mix from Geelong’s first pick, with Essendon, Adelaide and Sydney all chances to pounce. No matter where he ends up, he looms as a reliable pick.
10. NATE CADDY
Position: Medium forward/midfielder
Size: 192cm
Clubs: Northern Knights/Yarrambat
AFL player comparison: Charlie Curnow
Could be a bit higher than No. 10 on club draft boards, such is the growth left in him — both in his game and in his body. Caddy – the nephew of dual premiership Tiger Josh Caddy – is a unique goalkicker in that he has strong high-marking ability and plays with key-forward like power, dynamism and presence. But he isn’t as tall as some of other key forwards in this year’s draft class. To make up for that, he’s shown ominous explosiveness when pinch-hitting at centre bounces. He competed hard without much scoreboard reward for effort for Vic Metro, kicking six goals from three national carnival games, but there were three Coates Talent League games where he kicked at least four goals from 20-plus disposals. Likely to first come under consideration when it’s the Demons’ turn to pick – and the sense is he won’t slide too far past that selection, with Geelong and Essendon interested.
11. JAMES LEAKE
Position: Medium defender/forward
Size: 188cm
Clubs: Tasmania Devils/Launceston
AFL player comparison: Tom Stewart
Hello and welcome to the top-10 mix, James Leake — and it’s richly deserved after a breathtaking back-end to his 2023 campaign. Leake earned a call-up to the Allies squad after a solid start to his Coates Talent League season across half-back – and he delivered on the national stage, playing all four games and averaging 16 disposals and five marks while going at 79 per cent efficiency by foot. Recruiters then really took note when Leake was shifted forward late in the season for the Devils and kicked 15 goals from his last five games, including a haul of five against the Stingrays and a match-turning three against the Falcons. Leake has an excellent leap and strong pair of hands, which helps him at both ends of the field. He’s composed with ball in hand and an excellent interceptor in defence, but lethal around goal inside 50. Will be on Melbourne’s radar — whether that’s with their first or second pick remains unclear — as well as in the mix for the Giants, Cats, Bombers and Crows.
12. DARCY WILSON
Position: Medium forward/midfielder
Size: 185cm
Clubs: Murray Bushrangers/Wangaratta Rovers
AFL player comparison: Josh Daicos
The quiet achiever of this year’s class who starred at every level he played at. Wilson is a hard-working prospect who lets his footy do the talking. He kicked 4.3 and averaged 16 disposals and four inside 50s for Vic Country in the national carnival after two solid games for the AFL Academy against Port Adelaide’s SANFL side (19 disposals) and Carlton’s VFL team (1.0, 12 disposals, 6 marks). Wilson also kicked 16 goals and averaged 25 disposals and four inside 50s for the Bushrangers from 11 Coates Talent League games. He’s classy yet exciting, zippy yet can run all day – he finished second in the 2km time trial (5:52) at the combine – and daring with the ball in hand yet still efficient. It’s no wonder Wilson is in the first-round mix. Probably first comes into consideration at Geelong’s pick, while the Crows have also been linked to him.
13. JAKE ROGERS
Position: Midfielder
Size: 172cm
Clubs: Gold Coast Suns Academy/Broadbeach
AFL player comparison: Touk Miller
A speedy, agile and tenacious prospect with great decision-making ability, Rogers is one of the cleanest players in the draft class — and he thrived at all levels this season. He averaged 26 disposals for the Suns academy in the Coates Talent League before winning the medal for the AFL Academy’s best player across its two matches against state league opposition. Rogers then earned All-Australian honours for his terrific national carnival for the Allies where he averaged 23 disposals, six clearances and five tackles. Plus he didn’t look out of place in his three games for the Suns’ VFL side. Not only is Rogers clean, his creativity and vision allows him to set up scores for his team. He’s drawn comparisons with Suns co-captain Touk Miller – and, coincidentally, Rogers has worked closely with Miller across the past year in transforming himself from a small forward to a genuine on-baller. In fact Rogers, through the Suns academy system, believes he’s been treated as a first-year AFL player and, therefore, ready to go for next season. Taller Suns prospects Jed Walter and Ethan Read will likely attract top-10 bids before him, with Rogers set to receive interest in the teens.
14. JORDAN CROFT
Position: Key forward
Size: 200cm
Clubs: Calder Cannons/Maribyrnong Park
AFL player comparison: Ben King
One for Dogs fans to get excited about. Despite a quiet end to his Coates Talent League campaign, Croft still finished with 23.17 from 11 games, with 21 of those goals coming across a scintillating seven-game stretch during the middle of the season. While he didn’t quite have the same impact in the national carnival, he was still a standout in Vic Metro’s win over South Australia, booting 3.2 from 10 disposals and three marks. An athletic 200cm prospect who covers the ground superbly – he ran the fourth-best 2km time at the combine (6:05) – Croft prides himself on his competitiveness, both in the air at ground level. He’s looked up to Bulldogs forward Aaron Naughton in that area – and he’s now almost certain to be training with Naughton at Whitten Oval later this year after Croft – the son of Matthew Croft, who played 186 games for the Western Bulldogs – officially nominated the Bulldogs under the father-son rule. He’s highly likely to attract interest in the mid to later stages of the first round, with Sydney and St Kilda chances to bid. And the Dogs are well placed to match.
15. CALEB WINDSOR
Position: Wing
Size: 184cm
Clubs: Eastern Ranges/Lysterfield
AFL player comparison: Justin McInerney
The best winger in the draft class in a year where there aren’t too many wingers at the top end. Windsor’s fan club grew significantly across the back-half of the season. After averaging 16 disposals and five inside 50s for Vic Metro at the national carnival, Windsor starred for the Ranges, averaging 19 disposals from his final eight Coates Talent League games. But what scouts were most impressed with was Windsor’s ability to push forward and consistently hit the scoreboard, kicking one goal in all of those eight matches. While he didn’t have a high contested possession rate at the champs (27%), clubs love his electric speed, which was on display at the national combine. He placed third in the 20m sprint (2.916) while also finishing inside the top 10 of both vertical jump tests. The Giants are keen at their first pick, while he’s also on the radar of the trio of clubs who have the next three selections: Geelong, Essendon and Adelaide.
16. WILL MCCABE
Position: Key defender
Size: 197cm
Clubs: Central District/Tanunda
AFL player comparison: Harry Himmelberg
Recruiters widely believe McCabe is SA’s top prospect – yet he has ties to a Victorian club. While McCabe endured an injury-interrupted 2023 campaign, his glimpses put him in the first-round mix. He played most of his junior footy as a forward, but starred as a defender this year, averaging 22 disposals and six marks for Central District in the SANFL Under 18s. A mobile and athletic prospect who has great endurance, McCabe can play on either tall or small forwards due to his competitiveness in the air and at ground level. He’s also a precise user by foot, going at 86 per cent kicking efficiency during the national champs. McCabe is father-son eligible to the Hawks as his dad, Luke McCabe, played 138 games for Hawthorn between 1995 to 2004. The expectation is he’ll join the club under the father-son rule after the Hawks match a mid to late first-round bid.
17. LANCE COLLARD
Position: Small forward
Size: 179cm
Clubs: Subiaco/North Beach
AFL player comparison: Shai Bolton
Some scouts believe he’s WA’s most talented prospect. A few months ago, Collard would’ve been outside the top 40 of some club draft boards. Now he looms as genuine top 20 chance after an outstanding finish to his year, booting 10.1 across two WAFL colts finals to finish with 32.13 from 11 games for the season. Collard had just one standout performance in a quiet national carnival for WA – 2.2 against Vic Country – although clubs were sympathetic to the fact he had asked to spend more time with his family during that period. Blessed with an enormous leap, electric speed and great goal nous, Collard then starred at the combine with a solid 2km time trial result of 6:32 before recording the fastest agility test of any prospect (8.157 seconds) and finishing fourth in the 20m sprint (2.923 seconds). Just as importantly, clubs were impressed by how he carried himself during the interview process. While Collard was a consistent goalkicker and showed ample tricks inside 50 this year, recruiters believe he has the skills, polish, class and athleticism to play up the field. Collard, who grew up a Fremantle supporter, is tied to the Eagles via their Next Generation Academy. Yet West Coast can only match a bid on him if it lands outside the top 40 picks – and any hopes the Eagles had Collard wouldn’t be picked up in the top 40 are now surely dashed. Collard has a wide draft range, with some recruiters believing he could go in the mid teens — St Kilda has been linked — or slide to one of the Dockers or Eagles’ second-round picks.
18. KOLTYN THOLSTRUP
Position: Medium forward
Size: 184cm
Clubs: Subiaco/Newtown Condingup
AFL player comparison: Cameron Rayner
A high impact and high score involvements player, Tholstrup has been in the first-round mix seemingly since last year. After missing WA’s first national champs game with a back issue, Tholstrup had several key moments during an impressive outing against SA, including a standout smother, a good contested mark and a classy late-game goal as he finished with 1.1 from 20 disposals, eight marks and four inside 50s. Just as importantly, Tholstrup had consistent WAFL league exposure at Subiaco, kicking seven goals from 10 matches against bigger bodies. He also tested well at the combine, finishing equal-ninth in the 2km time trial (6:17) then second in the agility test (8.194). Tholstrup is a natural leader who brings ample energy to the footy field and prides himself on “leaving it all out on the field”. He was invited to the first night of the draft, which suggests he’ll be taken with a first-round pick. Sydney and St Kilda could be the first clubs to have a look at him, while Collingwood has also been linked to him.
19. OLLIE MURPHY
Position: Key defender
Size: 200cm
Clubs: Sandringham Dragons/East Brighton Vampires
AFL player comparison: Callum Wilkie
Prior to this year, Murphy was “hopeful” he’d be an AFL player come draft night. Several months later, he looms as a likely first-round pick after a captivating rise, with his Vic Metro MVP gong the highlight. One of his more impressive games was against the Allies where he did a great job on Jed Walter – after being moved onto him after quarter-time – while also finishing with 10 touches and five marks. After school footy commitments, Murphy settled back in defence for the finish of Sandringham’s premiership campaign, with his preliminary final performance against the Falcons (18 disposals, 8 marks) a standout. Murphy has great size and athletic ability — he ran a PB 2km time trial at the combine (6:18) — as well as a pinpoint left-foot kick, while he’s an aerial threat and not afraid to put his body on the line. Might’ve slid down a few boards in recent months but is still expected to be taken on the first night.
20. RILEY HARDEMAN
Position: Medium defender
Size: 185cm
Clubs: Swan Districts/Caversham
AFL player comparison: Bailey Dale
A hard-running defender and WA’s carnival captain, Hardeman had several standout games throughout his draft year. He racked up 23 disposals, nine marks and eight rebound 50s for WA against SA in the carnival, while he had 26-plus disposals in four of his seven colts games. Scouts have been pleased to see Hardeman’s growth in confidence to come forward and intercept mark this year to complement his strong rebounding traits, which include speed and a booming left-foot kick. Looms as a teens pick, with St Kilda strongly linked to him — he’s a Saints fan, by the way — while the Giants or Kangaroos could also consider him.
21. ARIE SCHOENMAKER
Position: Wing/key defender
Size: 194cm
Clubs: Tasmania Devils/Launceston
AFL player comparison: James Sicily
A possible first-round bolter who’s impressed AFL clubs with his rapid on-field growth and dedication to improve off-field. Schoenmaker was hit with a 10-game ban at the start of the year for a training camp indiscretion involving alcohol with a group of his teammates. He didn’t play for the Tassie Devils until Round 8 of the Coates League — and he returned with a bang, amassing a game-high 36 disposals, 19 rebound 50s and six marks against the GWV Rebels. The Devils lost the match, but Schoenmaker’s draft redemption journey had truly begun. He was then a late call-up for the Allies and made an immediate splash, booting 2.3 from 20 disposals, 10 marks and four inside 50s against Vic Metro. Schoenmaker is the definition of a line-breaker, with the ability to change the course of matches by using his run and carry then thumping the ball forward with his long, raking left boot. He has the size to be a third tall defender, but admits he needs to regain his ability and confidence to intercept before moving into that role at AFL level. Clubs were keen to interview him at the national combine – and they were impressed with his willingness to own and learn from his early-year mistake. Looms as a good chance to be taken on the first night of the draft.
22. CHARLIE EDWARDS
Position: Midfielder/medium defender
Size: 190cm
Clubs: Sandringham Dragons/Sandhurst
AFL player comparison: Will Day
A genuine late-season bolter, Edwards’ shift from defence to the midfield paid big dividends. He missed out on playing for Vic Metro at the national champs, but exploded in his final seven Coates Talent League games for the Dragons, booting seven goals and averaging 21 disposals and five inside 50s per outing. Edwards’ class, athleticism and ability to burst away from congested stoppages has impressed recruiters, while his 190cm frame also appeals. Another player who looms as a teens pick, such has been the late interest from various clubs.
23. WILL GREEN
Position: Ruck
Size: 204cm
Clubs: Northern Knights/Northcote
AFL player comparison: Brodie Grundy
Now the second-best ruck prospect in the draft behind Ethan Read. Green elevated his standing after an excellent carnival for Vic Metro where he showed off his running power, mobility, ruck craft and competitiveness. Green’s best game came against Read and the Allies, working himself into the game and finishing with 11 disposals, four clearances and a game-high 30 hit-outs. The Knights co-captain was then named as the starting ruck in the Coates Talent League team of the year after averaging 11 disposals, three marks and 23 hit-outs from 13 games. A report last week linked Green to Sydney’s first-round pick, while Collingwood and North Melbourne could also look at him.
24. ARCHER REID
Position: Ruck/key forward
Size: 203cm
Clubs: Gippsland Power/Inverloch-Kongwak
AFL player comparison: Rory Lobb
An uber talented yet polarising key-position prospect with an enormous ceiling, Reid endured an inconsistent draft campaign. He entered this season as a possible top-10 pick, probably dipped across the first few months, found form and confidence for Gippsland after the champs then struggled late, going goalless in his final four games. Reid, the brother of Essendon’s Zach Reid, is a mobile forward-ruck who’s exceptional overhead yet great below his knees and possesses good goal sense. His Round 11 Talent League game — 4.0 from 17 disposals, eight marks and 17 hit-outs against the Dragons — was Reid at his best. Will require patience from fans at AFL level, but if it clicks, he could be a tantalising player. Whether a club is prepared to use a first-round pick on him remains uncertain, but he’s been linked to North Melbourne’s suite of teens picks, as well as the Magpies.
25. ARCHIE ROBERTS
Position: Medium defender
Size: 182cm
Clubs: Sandringham Dragons/Hampton Rovers
AFL player comparison: Jake Lloyd
Some clubs would have him much higher on their rankings, others would have him lower. AFL recruiters have remained split over Roberts right throughout the season, but he’s a high metres gained player who backs his kicking. His rebounding, ability to gain territory and aerobic capacity (6:08 2km time trial) is unquestionable, but scouts also have doubts over his kicking efficiency, decision-making and defensive accountability. After starring for the AFL Academy against Carlton in May, Roberts found plenty of the ball during the national carnival for Vic Metro, averaging 21 disposals and six rebound 50s while going at 75 per cent by foot. He then played three crucial finals to help the Dragons to the Talent League premiership, collecting 19, 25 and 16 disposals respectively. Some clubs see him as a possible midfielder at AFL level, despite playing off half-back for the majority of 2023. Wouldn’t be a surprise to see him taken on the first night of the draft, but could slip to the second round. St Kilda has been linked to him, while West Coast and Carlton are also a chance.
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And here’s 26-50, as revealed on foxfooty.com.au on Saturday.
26. GEORGE STEVENS
Position: Midfielder/medium defender
Size: 189cm
Clubs: GWV Rebels/South Warrnambool
AFL player comparison: Ollie Wines
Couldn’t have done much more on the field this year to boost his prospects. Stevens was a standout for Vic Country across the carnival and starred for the Rebels in the Coates Talent League, averaging a whopping 29 disposals, five tackles and five inside 50. Just as impressive were his outings for Geelong’s VFL side, racking up 16 touches against Coburg then 29 against Collingwood. He finished third in the Morrish medal voting and was named captain of the league’s team of the year. A powerfully-built 189cm prospect, Stevens spent some time in defence this year, but clubs preferred seeing him as an on-baller where he showed off his cleanliness, decision-making skills and natural ball-winning ability. While there are question marks on Stevens’ athletic profile and whether he has AFL-level speed and agility, he plays with great presence when he goes on the ball and is hard to push over in the contest.
27. KOEN SANCHEZ
Position: Small forward/midfielder
Size: 176cm
Clubs: East Fremantle/Applecross Mt Pleasant
AFL player comparison: Sam Flanders
This will be too high for some, but we’re big fans of Sanchez — a pocket rocket and natural footballer who booted 6.8 and averaged 18 disposals and nine contested possessions for WA at the carnival. Sanchez played in the midfield for two champs games and as a forward for the other two. Clubs were particularly thrilled by Sanchez’s output when he played closer to goal in the champs as he showed off his powerful kick, goal sense, speed and agility. He was a ball magnet at WAFL colts level, averaging 25 disposals from six games. The reality is if he joins an AFL club, he’ll start as a small forward — and could play early. After being hampered by hip and groin issues for several years, Sanchez delivered at the right time of the year.
28. LUAMON LUAL
Position: Medium defender
Size: 182cm
Clubs: GWV Rebels/South Warrnambool
AFL player comparison: Lachie Ash
There’s ample excitement around this defender, who got better with every champs game he played and finished on a high with a spectacular performance against Vic Metro, including a breathtaking third-quarter goal. He also had a crack on the ball at the Rebels during the second half of the season, but his 21-disposal elimination final performance against the Falcons reminded scouts how damaging he can be as a backman. He was runner-up in the Rebels’ best and fairest and earned selection in the Coates Talent League Team of the Year. A speedy and balanced prospect who provides explosive run off half-back yet is just as adept when defending one-on-one, Lual looms as an ideal mid-sized backman for AFL clubs. The Western Bulldogs, who are linked to Lual via their Next Generation Academy, are hoping that club will be them. But they can only match a bid on him if it comes within the top 40 picks — and considering the post-champs hype around Lual from clubs, it seems highly unlikely he’ll still be on the board by then.
29. HARRY DEMATTIA
Position: Midfielder/medium forward
Size: 185cm
Clubs: Dandenong Stingrays/Edithvale-Aspendale
AFL player comparison: Jack Sinclair
Eleven months after running drinks and Kookaburra bats out to Marnus Labuschagne — and copping a sledge from Proteas captain Dean Elgar — during the Boxing Day test, DeMattia could be on an AFL list. After being appointed Stingrays captain for 2023, DeMattia put all his focus into footy — and that decision has paid off, impressing across all three lines at different levels. He kicked five goals from his first three Coates Talent League game playing as a high half-forward then had 30 touches in his last home and away game against the Devils. And in Vic Country’s final national carnival game, DeMattia played on Nick Watson and clamped him when the game was up for grabs. DeMattia has genuine speed, clean hands and versatility, while his pressure game, competitiveness and elite ball use also appeals to AFL clubs
30. MITCH EDWARDS
Position: Ruck
Size: 205cm
Clubs: Peel Thunder/South Mandurah
AFL player comparison: Tim English
A slide down the rankings from the start of the year for Edwards, who didn’t have a lot of luck at times during this year. After impressive outings for the AFL Academy, Edwards copped a corky against South Australia then suffered a concussion against Vic Country, which meant he missed the last game against Vic Metro. He finished the season in Peel Thunder’s reserves side, playing six games. One of the best pure rucks in the draft, Edwards has great ruck craft and aerial competitiveness, while his running vertical jump of 94cm — ranked fifth overall — proved how good is leap is. Edwards is linked to Fremantle via its Next Generation Academy, but the Dockers can only match a bid on him if it comes outside the top 40 — and even though there’s been a cooling regarding top-10 calculations, it’s unlikely Edwards is getting picked that late.
31. TEW JIATH
Position: Medium defender
Size: 187cm
Clubs: Gippsland Power/Morwell
AFL player comparison: Nick Vlastuin
Didn’t play for Vic Country and didn’t get a national combine invite, but Jiath is an outside chance to be taken in the first round of this year’s draft. Jiath has surged up draft boards during the back-end of Gippsland Power’s Coates Talent League campaign, providing eye-catching dash, dare and intercept ability off half-back. His 29-disposal wildcard round display against the Stingrays was particularly noteworthy. Jiath is the younger brother of Hawks defender Changkuoth Jiath. While ‘CJ’ breaks lines with his run and carry, Jiath is more of a creator and neat distributor off half-back. He’s part of Hawthorn’s Next Generation Academy, meaning the Hawks have rights to match a bid on him if it comes after Pick 40. But Hawthorn appears increasingly likely to miss out on its top NGA prospect, who’s now expected to be drafted within the first 40 selections.
32. TAYLOR GOAD
Position: Ruck
Size: 206cm
Clubs: South Adelaide/Willunga
AFL player comparison: Max Gawn
Another ruck seemingly destined to be taken at the national draft. Goad upped the ante after the national championships, averaging 15 disposals, 24 hit-outs, five clearances and four inside 50s in South Adelaide’s final three SANFL Under 18s home and away games. He then played an integral role in the team’s premiership, with 13 disposals, three contested marks, five clearances and 17 hit-outs in the grand final triumph. The former basketballer at the combine then showed off his insane athleticism for a player of his height, running a 2.97-second 20m sprint to go with a 74cm standing vertical jump. Goad prides himself on staying involved in the game post-ruck contests, even if it’s at ground level. SA coach Tony Bamford told AFL Media Goad has “the most upside of any player in our state”, adding: “He’s got a midfield mindset in a Max Gawn body.
33. LOGAN MORRIS
Position: Medium forward/defender
Size: 192cm
Clubs: Western Jets/Werribee Districts
AFL player comparison: Oscar Allen
A consistent goalkicker over the past two years with the potential to be a damaging third tall at AFL level. After booting 31 goals from 14 games as a bottom-ager for the Jets, Morris kicked 30 majors from 10 games this year, including seven hauls of at least three goals. He also showed showing off his versatility for Vic Metro, playing the first two carnival games in defence before being swung forward for the final two games. Morris against WA kicked 4.1 from 16 disposals, while he also plucked 11 marks (five contested) as he showed off his elite hands and improved his aerobic capacity. Also kicked two goals in a one-off VFL game for Werribee.
34. PHOENIX GOTHARD
Position: Small forward
Size: 178cm
Clubs: Murray Bushrangers/Albury
AFL player comparison: Jamie Cripps
Gothard has several traits that have AFL clubs excited. He’s a clean, one-touch player who’s also quick and agile. He’s a two-way player, in that he impacts the scoreboard yet also applies relentless pressure. Plus he has a great vertical leap and maximises his disposals in the forward half of the ground. Gothard really put himself on the radar during the national champs where he averaged one goal a game. He was also impressive for the Murray Bushrangers in the Coates Talent League, booting nine goals and averaging 16 disposals and 3.7 tackles across 10 matches. No wonder clubs are excited.
35. WILL GRAHAM
Position: Medium defender/midfielder
Size: 186cm
Clubs: Gold Coast Suns Academy/Palm Beach Currumbin
AFL player comparison: Jarrod Berry
Jed Walter, Ethan Read and Jake Rogers have been all the rage this year, but Graham is the fourth Suns academy prospect that can’t be forgotten. In fact he’s been invited to attend the first night of the draft, suggesting a club could bid on him in the 20s. Graham averaged 16.5 disposals and 5.0 marks while going at 79.5 per cent efficiency by foot for the Allies during the national championships playing primarily as a defender with a few midfield stints. He also had VFL exposure, playing four games for the Suns and averaging 9.7 disposals. Graham then finished second in the 20m sprint (2.915 seconds) and third in both vertical jump tests at the national draft combine. Graham is quick and powerful, yet also clean and composed with ball in hand.
36. ZANE ZAKOSTELSKY
Position: Key defender/ruck
Size: 196cm
Clubs: Claremont/North Beach
AFL player comparison: Noah Balta
A raw yet athletic talent with enormous upside — and he’s a December baby. After starting his colts year as a ruck, Zakostelsky caught the eye as an intercept defender for WA after getting a call-up to play the final two games. He then went back to Claremont colts where he finished the season with three brilliant finals performances as a ruck, capped off by a 22-disposal display in the grand final that won him best on ground honours. Zakostelsky then did his draft bolter status no harm at the combine with top-10 finishes in the standing vertical jump (1st), agility test (5th), 20m sprint (6th) and running vertical jump (6th). Speaking about Zakostelsky, Claremont teammate Daniel Curtin told foxfooty.com.au: “He’s got a lot to offer and crazy athletic. I’m extremely proud of his growth.”
37. ANGUS HASTIE
Position: Medium defender
Size: 190cm
Clubs: Geelong Falcons/Geelong West Giants
AFL player comparison: Mitchell Hinge
The Falcons footy factory’s best prospect this season. Hastie started his year strongly, averaging 24.6 disposals fro his first five Coates Talent League matches before his volume of disposals dropped slightly during the back-half of the year. Still, Hastie is a great interceptor, always looks to stay involved in the play and has impressive run and dash, which allows him to set up play off half-back. He also showed off his lockdown ability in the national carnival, shutting down Vic Metro star Nate Caddy at Ikon Park in a fascinating match-up. He then produced the third best time (8.20 seconds) in the agility test at the national combine, too.
38. JACK DELEAN
Position: Small forward
Size: 181cm
Clubs: South Adelaide/Reynella
AFL player comparison: Jack Ginnivan
A genuine goalsneak at every level he’s played at. Delean was a constant threat inside 50 at the national championships — despite South Australia’s poor carnival — finishing with 9.3 playing predominantly close to goal. He then slotted into South Adelaide’s SANFL league team with aplomb, booting two goals in each of his three games. Most notably, he showed a willingness to work up the ground and provide a link option for South Adelaide, while also directly impacting the scoreboard with his excellent goal nous. Was then rewarded with a premiership medallion as part of South Adelaide’s Under 18s premiership, with Delean finishing with 38 goals from 13 games at that level. Scouts do have doubts over his running capacity and defensive pressure, but he’s quick on the lead, has an exciting leap and strong hands.
39. WIL DAWSON
Position: Key defender
Size: 200cm
Clubs: Gippsland Power/Leongatha
AFL player comparison: Esava Ratugolea
A 200cm prospect who’s played across all three lines and doesn’t turn 18 until December: Everything about Dawson screams ‘upside’ at AFL level. After starting as a ruck-forward for Gippsland, Dawson was moved into defence and thrived in his new role. While he didn’t win a lot of the footy, his intercept ability and aerial competitiveness was strikingly impressive. Remarkably, he’s grown 20cm in the past two years — but he’s maintained his cleanliness below his knees. Scouts wouldn’t be surprised if a club took a punt on Dawson with a late first-round pick.
40. COOPER SIMPSON
Position: Midfielder
Size: 182cm
Clubs: Dandenong Stingrays/Mt Martha
AFL player comparison: Luke Davies-Uniacke
An ankle injury in his first champs game meant he missed the remaining three matches for Vic Country, but recruiters certainly haven’t gotten the AFL potential of this well-balanced on-baller. He averaged 24 disposals across his first three Talent League games for the Stingrays, while also finishing with 11 touches, seven contested possessions and three centre clearances for the AFL Academy against Port’s SANFL side. He then finished with three strong games for Dandenong: 2.1 from 22 touches against the Bushrangers, 28 disposals and eight marks against the Devils then 2.1 from 20 disposals against Gippsland. Speedy, cool under pressure and clean with ball in-hand, Simpson is also a big moments player that steps up when his team needs him most. Add in his ultra professionalism, elite burstaway speed and evasive step in traffic and you’ve got yourself an AFL player. He could be taken a lot earlier on draft night.
41. CAIDEN CLEARY
Position: Midfielder
Size: 182cm
Clubs: Sydney Swans Academy/Sydney University
AFL player comparison: Josh Dunkley
The Swans are likely to use two picks at the draft: One on a prospect with their first-rounder and another on matching a bid on Cleary, who couldn’t have done much more to push his prospects throughout 2023. Cleary thrived in the star-studded Allies midfield to produce a consistent champs campaign where he increased his disposal count with every game – 24, 28, 29 and 36 – while also being a consistent tackler. Then he went on to impress for the Swans’ VFL team, averaging 17.7 tackles across six matches against bigger bodies. Cleary is everything you want in a young inside midfielder: Ferocious attack on the ball, clean in congestion and powerful in how he covers the ground, which was punctuated by his 6:06 effort in the 2km time trial at the national draft combine. A bid could come on him as early as the 20s, but it’s more likely he’ll go on night two – and the Swans will be prepared to match that bid.
42. BODIE RYAN
Position: Medium defender
Size: 187cm
Clubs: Glenelg/Brighton
AFL player comparison: Zach Guthrie
Could be taken a lot earlier than this ranking suggests, as Ryan has ample fans at AFL club level. Speedy, agile and an excellent interceptor, Ryan averaged 19.6 disposals and 5.3 marks at SANFL Under 18s level. His standout game was for SA against Vic Country in the carnival, where he curtailed Harley Reid’s influence after the Pick 1 favourite’s hot start at Ikon Park. Fellow SA prospect Ashton Moir told foxfooty.com.au that 187cm Ryan “can play any role in the backline”, adding: “He reads the ball really well, whether that’s in the air or at ground level, and he’s a really good lockdown defender.” Ryan is the cousin of Jakob Ryan, who was drafted by Collingwood 12 months ago.
43. AIDEN O’DRISCOLL
Position: Wing
Size: 175cm
Clubs: Perth/Northern Saints
AFL player comparison: Hayden Ballantyne
The draft combine MVP — but he’s more than just an athlete. O’Driscoll – the brother of Fremantle AFL/AFLW duo Nathan and Emma O’Driscoll – recorded top-10 finishes in all five combine tests, producing the quickest 20m sprint time (2.871 seconds) and finishing sixth in the 2km time trial (6:06), seventh in the running vertical jump (92cm), ninth in the standing vertical jump (73cm) and ninth in the agility test (8.302). But clubs all year have been well aware of O’Driscoll’s elite running capacity, neat ball use and discipline to keep his width on the wing. O’Driscoll was a consistent performer in his six WAFL colts matches for Perth, averaging 16.5 disposals per game, but his standout performance was for WA against South Australia, booting one goal from 19 disposals and 12 marks.
44. ASHTON MOIR
Position: Medium forward
Size: 187cm
Clubs: Glenelg/Plympton
AFL player comparison: Bayley Fritsch
Moir told foxfooty.com.au “it kills me” he’s not in the top-five mix ahead of the draft, but he also believes the adversity he’s faced this year will help him in the long run. After entering the season as a top-10 prospect, Moir endured a rollercoaster draft year where he struggled for consistency across all levels, primarily due to a nagging hip issue while some clubs believed his cause wasn’t helped by spending so much time deep inside 50. Moir kicked three goals and averaged 10 disposals from his four carnival games for SA — and while he was solid in the SANFL Under 18s, clubs were hoping he’d kick on at reserves or league level. Yet recruiters are well aware of the mid-sized forward’s incredible, freakish talent, which he displayed as a bottom-ager for South Australia last year with his high marking, goalkicking nous and kicking efficiency using both feet. Has worked hard in recent months to get his body right, which helped him run a time of 8.24 seconds on the agility test. No doubt a big slider, but could he be a big bargain?
45. SHAUN MANNAGH
Position: Small forward/midfielder
Size: 175cm
Clubs: Werribee (VFL)/Lavington
AFL player comparison: Jordan De Goey
The best mature-age prospect up for grabs after a mighty VFL campaign full of eye-catching performances. He won the Norm Goss Medal for the best player in the VFL grand final — despite Werribee’s loss to Gold Coast — after kicking six goals from 28 disposals. But it wasn’t his only standout game for the year. He kicked four goals from 40 touches against Southport in Round 3 then slotted a lazy seven majors from 25 disposals against Sandringham in Round 15. From his 21 games, he’s kicked 40.32 and averaged 25 touches per outing. AFL clubs in recent years have preferred to take mature-age players via the SSP after having a close look at them as train-on players. But Mannagh’s form has been so good that a club surely has to take him in the national draft.
46. JOE FONTI
Position: Medium defender
Size: 188cm
Clubs: Claremont/East Fremantle
AFL player comparison: Trent Rivers
A late bolter who’s attracted interest from several clubs throughout the back-half of the year. After starting the year as a raw wingman, Fonti was moved to half-back for Claremont’s colts team where he thrived, impressing with his run and intercept marking. It led to a late call-up to WA’s national carnival squad where he played three games. After playing a key role in Claremont’s colts flag, Fonti tested superbly well at the WA state draft combine, running the 20m sprint in 2.88 seconds and the agility test in 7.97 seconds. Those times were ranked first and second respectively among all players who tested at the three state draft combines.
47. JACK CALLINAN
Position: Small forward
Size: 179cm
Clubs: Tasmania Devils/Clarence
AFL player comparison: Tyson Stengle
A dynamic forward who knows where the goals are and is dangerous both in the air and at ground level. After a dominant start to his draft year in the Coates Talent League with 14.1 from his first four games for Tassie, Callinan — the son of former Crow Ian Callinan – was exciting for the Allies across half-forward across the carnival, booting 5.3 and averaging 11 disposals. Callinan showed off impressive footy nous, class and finishing ability, hence he finished with a competition-high eight score assists. He then produced two three-goals in Tassie’s last two finals against the Gippsland Power and Eastern Ranges. Doesn’t have a long list of clubs interested in him, but the ones that are have significant interest, so he should go in the national draft.
48. CLAY HALL
Position: Midfielder
Size: 189cm
Clubs: Peel Thunder/Harvey Brunswick Leschenault
AFL player comparison: Jack Crisp
A shining light in a tough mid-season national championships campaign for WA and showed great consistency across his draft campaign. Hall had more AFL clubs interested in him after his consistent carnival where he averaged 27 disposals, 11 contested possessions, six clearances and five inside 50s to earn All-Australian honours. He returned to WAFL league level and averaged 18.6 disposals from six games for Peel Thunder playing alongside Fremantle-listed players, although his output dipped later in the year. Hall – the son of former Eagles and Cats forward Derek Hall – is an appealing midfielder for AFL clubs considering his professionalism, size and outstanding aerobic capacity, although scouts would like to see an improvement in his kicking efficiency.
49. JOEL FREIJAH
Position: Wing
Size: 190cm
Clubs: GWV Rebels/Horsham Saints
AFL player comparison: Jason Johannisen
Was much higher on draft boards at the start of the year, but Horsham product still has big upside. Freijah started his 2023 campaign with a bang, averaging 22 disposals and one goal from his first eight games for the Rebels. His six-goal, 26-disposal display against the Stingrays in Round 4 was mesmerising. But he was a little quiet at the carnival for Vic Country – he kicked 3.1 and averaged 12 disposals from four games – and didn’t quite kick on for GWV in the back-half of the year. Still, Freijah is quick, agile, classy with his hands on the inside and can hit the scoreboard. He’s inside a unique size, so he can play as a tall midfielder, wing or even third forward/defender, which excites scouts. Could be a late bargain if it clicks for him at AFL level.
50. VIGO VISENTINI
Position: Ruck
Size: 204cm
Clubs: Sandringham Dragons/Brighton Beach
AFL player comparison: Rhys Stanley
The brother of Port Adelaide’s Dante Visentini, who was taken with Pick 56 in the 2021 draft. But two years later, you could argue younger brother Vigo is ahead of Dante at the same age. The athletic ruck played in both of the Dragons’ Coates Talent League premierships, averaging 12 disposals and 20.6 hit-outs across 11 games this season. He also played a couple of games for Vic Metro in the national championships. One of the most impressive aspects about the former volleyballer’s game is how ambidextrous he is — especially in the clinches — with the ability to dispose of the ball with both hands and feet with aplomb. But he’s also a good overhead mark with an eye-catching leap. The fact he’s one of five rucks in foxfooty.com.au’s 2023 draft power rankings shows how deep the ruck pool is in this year’s class.
