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With a week to go until the national draft, draft boards are still changing as more players are reviewed and new rumours continue to surface.
Since my first Phantom Draft, 20 of the top 35 picks have changed, with more changes certain to come. For more in-depth descriptions of some of the top 35 draft prospects, see my previous phantom draft.
Size: 185cm/75kg
Position: Midfield
Plays Like: Scott Pendlebury
In the Mix: Andrew McGrath, Ben Ainsworth
The Bombers have a tough choice in picking between McGrath and Ainsworth for the number one pick after both had outstanding years. While the Bombers could use a dashing half-back, they may find it tough to look past McCluggage as a goal kicking midfielder who moves through traffic like Scott Pendlebury.
Size: 180cm/75kg
Position: Midfield/Half-Back
Plays Like: Jarrod Harbrow
In the Mix: Ben Ainsworth, Hugh McCluggage
The Giants traded up to pick two, perhaps with McGrath in mind, and could do with an athletic, running defender to eventually replace Heath Shaw. If the Bombers select McGrath with the first pick, Ainsworth appears to be the next best option for the Giants as an athletic small forward with legitimate x-factor.
Size: 187cm/78kg
Position: Midfield
Plays Like: Scott Pendlebury
In the Mix: N/A
Pick Changes: Gains pick three and 52, loses pick four
The Lions could bid on Bowes here as a classy tall midfielder who can push forward and kick a goal. The Suns would be very unlikely to let Bowes slip and will match the bid, losing their first pick in the draft in the process.
Size: 179cm/74kg
Position: Small Forward/Midfield
Plays Like: Jamie Elliot
In the Mix: Hugh McCluggage, Will Brodie
Despite having a host of small forwards/midfielders on their list already, the Lions could find it very difficult to look past Ainsworth as a terrific athlete with elite skills and genuine x-factor. The fact that he’s already stated that he wants to join the Brisbane outfit is another big tick for Ainsworth. However, If the Bombers pick McGrath, McCluggage is a good chance to end up at the Lions and would be an excellent addition.
Size: 190cm/80kg
Position: Midfield
Plays Like: Marcus Bontempelli
In the Mix: N/A
Pick Changes: Gains pick five and 65, loses pick 15 and 37
The Blues will likely bid on Setterfield as the prototype big bodied midfielder with great skills. GWS are very unlikely to let the Murray Bushranger go and will instantly match the bid.
Size: 181cm/76kg
Position: Midfield/Half-Forward
Plays Like: Shaun Burgoyne
In the Mix: Tim Taranto, Will Brodie
While Taranto and Brodie would be excellent selections, Petrevski-Seton offers something different to the current Blues midfield and they should strongly consider him. Petrevski-Seton has pace and athleticism to go with his toughness and is also one of the best kicks in the draft off either foot. He can play through the midfield, on a wing or off half-forward and will perfectly compliment Patrick Cripps.
Size: 186cm/82kg
Position: Midfield/Half-Forward
Plays Like: Luke Parker
In the Mix: Sam Petrevski-Seton, Tim English
The Suns need midfielders following the losses of Harley Bennell, Dion Prestia and Jaeger O’Meara over the last couple of years. They could look to pick up Taranto after his excellent finish to the year. He is tough at stoppages, an outstanding overhead mark and will play senior football in the midfield and across half-forward next year. Alternatively, Petrevski-Seton’s skills will be hard to look past and if they are keen on English, they will have to select him here.
Size: 204cm/86kg
Position: Ruckman
Plays Like: Dean Cox
In the Mix: Sam Petrevski-Seton, Tim Taranto
With Aaron Sandilands now 33 years of age, the Dockers could look to select Tim English as a long term ruck replacement. Some see the WA product as having the potential to become the best player from this draft with his midfielder-like skills and big frame. If English is picked earlier, Fremantle have shown interest in both Petrevski-Seton and Taranto.
Size: 194cm/80kg
Position: Half-Back/Midfield
Plays Like: Grant Birchall
In the Mix: Griffin Logue, Jy Simpkin, Tim Taranto
Having already picked up two talented midfielders , the Suns could look to add talent around the ground. Scrimshaw is a very classy half-back with the athletic attributes to become an outstanding big-bodied midfielder. The Suns could also do with a key defender and will need to pick Logue here, before the Swans have a chance to pick him up.
Size: 194cm/92kg
Position: Key Defender
Plays Like: Michael Hurley
In the Mix: Tim Taranto, Jack Scrimshaw, Jy Simpkin
With Ted Richards retired and Heath Grundy 31 next year, the Swans are in need of a key defender and after an outstanding year and draft combine, with that in mind, Griffin Logue would be an excellent selection. The former rower is a terrific athlete and can play in every position on the ground, but looks best suited as a key defender. If Logue is selected earlier in the draft, Scrimshaw and Simpkin shape as excellent additions. Further, if Taranto is still available it would be a massive win for the Swans.
Size: 181cm/71kg
Position: Midfield/Half-Forward
Plays Like: Devon Smith
In the Mix: Griffin Logue, Will Hayward, Shai Bolton
Having added talent to their midfield and backline, the Suns could look to add zip and class to the forward line through Jy Simpkin. Simpkin has the talent to be a potential top-five pick, but has sat most of this year out with a broken leg. The Suns may look a to select a player outside this range with their last pick and exciting and athletic forwards Hayward and Bolton could both be a chance.
Size: 184cm/75kg
Position: Half-Back/Midfield
Plays Like: Luke Hodge
In the Mix: N/A
Pick Changes: Gains picks 11 and 72, loses picks 38, 44 and 51
North could look to bid for Perryman as the best available player here, but the Giants will take no time in matching. Perryman can play all over the ground and gets the job done with his competitiveness, foot skills and footy brain.
Size: 183cm/74kg
Position: Midfield/Half-Forward
Plays Like: Josh Kelly
In the Mix: Jy Simpkin, Will Brodie, Todd Marshall
As a midfielder with great evasiveness, pace and skills, Florent is the perfect fit for the Roos following the losses of Wells, Dal Santo and Harvey in the off season. Jy Simpkin would also be an excellent fit as a smooth moving half-forward who, in time, will move into the midfield. Will Brodie has also slipped from the top 10 and, although he is not what they need, could be selected here.
Size: 178cm/68kg
Position: Half-Forward
Plays Like: Cyril Rioli
In the Mix: Todd Marshall, Will Brodie, Jarrod Berry
West Coast could surprise here by selecting exciting Western Australian half-forward Shai Bolton early. The Eagles are blessed with a talented list and could take the risk on Bolton, who shares similarities with Hawthorn champion Cyril Rioli in his athleticism and freakish ability to make things happen. With Josh Kennedy now 30 years of age, the Eagles could look to select Marshall as a lean and developing key forward while Will Brodie should also be strongly considered.
Size: 189cm/82kg
Position: Midfield
Plays Like: Josh P Kennedy
In the Mix: Jy Simpkin, Jarrod Berry, Daniel Venables
The Crows are after a big bodied midfielder who stands up in big games and Will Brodie fits that description perfectly. Brodie has slipped because of his lack of outside polish as well as a number of injury interrupted performances at the back end of this year. The Crows have also shown interest in athletic midfielder/defender Jarrod Berry, who boasts outstanding leadership skills and character.
Size: 186cm/76kg
Position: Half-Forward
Plays Like: James Sicily
In the Mix: Todd Marshall, Alex Witherden, Josh Battle
Looking for more forward-line firepower, the Power will be very excited by the prospect of picking up local boy Will Hayward. Hayward has some impressive athletic traits and burst into the first round with a nine-goal performance in a preliminary final against the Eagles. Todd Marshall would be very hard to pass up, but lacks the standout performances that Hayward has displayed.
Size: 191cm/80kg
Position: Half-back/Midfield
Plays Like: Andrew Mackie
In the Mix: Alex Witherden, Jordan Gallucci, Sam Powell-Pepper
Berry is the outstanding leader and character in the draft and looks destined to become a 200 game player and club captain. however, He has struggled with injury and form this year, but has also shown versatility, courage, athleticism and skill. Berry is a terrific prospect that the Lions will find very difficult to look past. Alternatively, Alex Witherden is a terrific ball user off half-back and could also be selected here.
Size: 186cm/79kg
Position: Half-Back
Plays Like: Sam Docherty
In the Mix: Todd Marshall, Josh Battle, Daniel Venables
Looking to add class and composure to their half-back line, the Power are likely to select Alex Witherden. Witherden suffered a broken leg earlier in the season and has missed most of the year, but is a good size and, in time, will develop into a tidy midfielder. With key forwards Marshall and Battle still available, the Power could be tempted to take another marking forward.
Size: 198cm/87kg
Position: Key Forward
Plays Like: Jeremy Cameron
In the Mix: Will Hayward, Daniel Venables, Jordan Gallucci
Touted as a potential top 15 pick, Marshall’s inconsistency could see him slip as low as the Western Bulldogs’ pick 19. Marshall is a terrific mark on the lead, but separates himself from other key forwards with his agility and ability to make things happen at ground level. However, if Will Hayward is still available, the Dogs would find it hard to look past him.
Size: 183cm/75kg
Position: Midfield/Half-Back
Plays Like: Jack Steven
In the Mix: Alex Witherden, Shai Bolton, Josh Rotham
The Swans’ biggest list requirements for this draft are outside speed and class – Gallucci offers both. Gallucci is a terrific athlete who carries the ball and breaks the lines. With Jarrad McVeigh in his 30s and Callum Mills likely to move into the midfield, Witherden would also be an excellent addition to the Swans’ half-back line if he were still available.
Size: 192cm/90kg
Position: Key Forward
Plays Like: Jack Darling
In the Mix: Shai Bolton, Daniel Venables, Jordan Gallucci
With their key forward stocks relatively short outside of Joe Daniher, the Bombers could look to pick up Battle who represents the second best key forward in the draft. Battle boasts terrific endurance and marking, and would be an excellent foil for Daniher. Exciting small forward Shai Bolton could also add zip and x-factor to a relatively slow Bombers forward line.
Size: 184cm/83kg
Position: Midfield
Plays Like: Jack Ziebell
In the Mix: N/A
Pick Changes: Lose pick 52, go into deficit next year
Scheer is a big bodied midfielder who can dominate stoppages, but also possesses the ability to move forward and kick a goal. Looking for midfield talent and Queenslanders who won’t ‘go home,’ the Lions should bid here for Scheer, even if it is a little early. With an already large number of second round picks in next year’s draft, the Suns will not worry about going into deficit when matching the bid.
Size: 186cm/83kg
Position: Midfield/Half-Forward
Plays Like: Dustin Martin
In the Mix: Jordan Gallucci, Cedric Cox, Daniel Venables
Powell-Pepper is an exciting midfielder boasting a mix of speed and strength. He can play forward and back, and will be able to add intimidation to the Lions midfield. He is also a great leader. Looking for run and carry, the Lions could also pick Jordan Gallucci here, who is another strong leader.
Size: 183cm/72kg
Position: Half-Back
Plays Like: Heath Shaw
In the Mix: N/A
Pick Changes: Gain picks 27 and 67 and lose picks 53, 55 and 56
Looking to add polish, run and carry off half-back, the Lions could place a bid for Isaac Cumming who possesses terrific pace and precise kicking. With plenty of points to spare, the Giants should have no trouble matching the bid.
Size: 184cm/70kg
Position: Half-Back
Plays Like: Chris Yarran
In the Mix: Daniel Venables, Sam Walker, Jack Graham
After missing out on Cumming, the Lions could look to select Cedric Cox – a half-back who breaks the lines with his pace and terrific kicking ability. Cox has already shown that he is happy to move away from home, having moved from WA to Melbourne, as such the Lions will be more than happy to select him. Explosive midfielder Daniel Venables is a chance for the first round and the Lions could find it tough to let him go despite already selecting a similar type player in Powell-Pepper.
Size: 192cm/79kg
Position: Defender
Plays Like: Josh Gibson
In the Mix: Cedric Cox, Jordan Ridley, Shai Bolton
The Saints could be looking for height and pace in defence and in Rotham they’ll find both. Not tall enough to become a key defender, he has the athletic attributes to become a third or fourth tall who intercepts and rebounds in a similar fashion to Easton Wood or Jeremy Howe.
He has some very exciting qualities and seems the perfect fit for the Saints, particularly with Sean Dempster soon to be 33. If the Saints are looking for excitement and pace around the flanks, Cox and Bolton would be excellent selections, if they are still available.
Size: 186cm/81kg
Position: Midfield/Half-Forward
Plays Like: Luke Shuey
In the Mix: Josh Battle, Jordan Ridley, Sam Walker
Whilst the Cats will be hoping that key forward Josh Battle is still available for their selection as a partner for Tom Hawkins, Venables would still be an excellent selection after slipping from the first round. The Western Jet is packed with power and loves to explode from a stoppage in a similar fashion to Shuey or Dangerfield. However, he struggled with form and injury this year. His contested marking in the forward line also makes him an exciting prospect
Size: 188cm/79kg
Position: Outside Midfielder/Half-back
Plays Like: Brodie Smith
In the Mix: Sam Powell-Pepper, Patrick Kerr, Jordan Ridley
After losing Zach Tuohy and with Kade Simpson turning 33 next year, the Blues could opt for a player with line-breaking qualities off half-back and Williamson possesses plenty. Williamson has shot further up the draft order after a terrific Draft Combine, where he finished as the best in the agility test as well as top ten in the beep test, 3km time trial, standing vertical jump and running vertical jump.
During games, Williamson can dance around the tackle, and has the strength to bust through one – often subsequently delivering beautifully on his preferred left foot. Despite always taking the game on and trying to run past opponents, Williamson also has composure and vision and rarely burns the ball. He also possesses terrific hands at ground level and in the air, where he can take a strong intercept grab.
He will need to add some consistency to his performances, but overall, the Blues are picking up a terrific athlete. If the Blues are looking for a key forward, they could reach and opt to pick Patrick Kerr a tad early.
Size: 192cm/79kg
Position: Utility
Plays Like: Sam Reid
In the Mix: Isaac Cumming, Harrison Macreadie, Tom Williamson
Looking for height at either end of the ground, Ridley would be an excellent selection for the Dogs as a versatile tall with great mobility. Ridley is a swingman, he has the ability to take a great mark at either end and is mobile enough to play on a range of forwards. Athletic and classy medium defender Isaac Cumming would also be worth a bid here, if he was still available, as a perfect fit to a Dogs backline that contains three players over 30 in Matthew Boyd, Robert Murphy and Matthew Suckling.
Size: 194cm/93kg
Position: Key Forward
Plays Like: Josh J Kennedy
In the Mix: Tom Williamson, Jordan Ridley, Luke Ryan
After struggling to find a key forward to partner Jack Riewoldt for a number of years, and with Ty Vickery moving to Hawthorn, the Tigers could look to pick up Patrick Kerr as an old-fashioned lead-up forward.
He is quick on the lead and has terrific hands, which could allow the Tigers to let Riewoldt lead up the ground more often. Exciting half-back Tom Williamson could also be selected here to add some line breaking qualities to the Tigers defence.
Size: 194cm/90kg
Position: Key Defender
Plays Like: Daniel Talia
In the Mix: Jordan Ridley, Sam Walker, Jacob Allison
Collingwood are very light on key defenders and will be looking for the best available in the form of South Australian Brendan Cox. Cox is an excellent one-on-one defender and has the football smarts to become a solid defender at AFL level. Jordan Ridley would also add height to the Pies’ backline and is more of an intercept player than Cox.
Size: 194cm/79kg
Position: Midfield
Plays Like: Trent McKenzie
In the Mix: N/A
Pick Changes: Go into deficit next year
Port Adelaide will place a bid on Allison here looking to add class to their midfield, but the Lions are unlikely to let such a talented Queenslander go. Allison has some terrific weapons in the form of his athleticism, height and ball use, but has struggled to find form this year. He will be a project player for the Lions.
Size: 197cm/84kg
Position: Utility
Plays Like: Lachie Henderson
In the Mix: Luke Ryan, Sam Walker, Bailey Morrish
After picking up plenty of talented midfielders over the past couple of drafts, the Bombers could look to add more talent to their key position stocks by drafting Zachary Sproule. Sproule has a terrific tank and can play at either end. He seems best suited to defence where he is an excellent defender that can also take a strong intercept mark. The Bombers’ ability to rebound off half-back is also in need of improvement and Coburg half-back Luke Ryan would be an excellent fit.
Size: 183cm/83kg
Position: Midfield
Plays Like: Scott Thompson
In the Mix: Sam Walker, Harrison Macreadie, Jonty Scharenberg
Whilst the club is relatively strong for inside midfielders, local boy Jack Graham could prove too difficult to pass up. Graham is a clearance machine with an AFL-ready body. His biggest asset is his footy IQ and ability to find the ball.
Graham is a stoppage specialist who gets his hands on the ball and propels it forward. He won the Larke Medal for best player in Division One of the National Carnival, averaging 25 possessions per game and the recording the third most clearances of any player. Graham is not an exceptional kick of the footy, but he knows his limits and manages to hit a target more often than not.
Glenelg half-back Sam Walker would also be an excellent pick here and would add defensive capability as well as a willingness to rebound to the Power’s backline.
Size: 196cm/89kg
Position: Key Defender
Plays Like: Jake Lever
In the Mix: N/A
Pick Changes: Gain picks 35 and 64, lose picks 54 and 55
With the Power’s weak defensive stocks, they could look to Macreadie as the best remaining key defender in the draft. Unfortunately, after losing Joel Patful and Caleb Marchbank, the Giants would not be keen to let the mobile and talented key defender go.
Size: 194cm/80kg
Position: Midfield
Plays Like: Harry Taylor
In the Mix: Sam Walker, Zachary Sproule, Jonty Scharenberg
After missing out on Macreadie, the Power could look to Declan Watson as an elite interceptor. Watson’s biggest weapons are his ability to read the play extremely well, a nice vertical leap and terrific hands above his head which make him extremely dangerous in the air. He has also shown that he can defend well and punch strongly from behind.
With ball in hand, he is extremely composed and makes great decisions. His kicking needs improvement, but despite this he has performed well against bigger bodies during his time in the NEAFL with the Lions reserve side. Given their lack of late picks, the Lions are unlikely to match here. Again, classy South Australian half-back flanker Sam Walker could also appeal with his classy ball use and ability to lock down a small forward.
Size: 178cm/69kg
Position: Half-Forward
Plays Like: Alex Fasolo
In the Mix: N/A
Pick Changes: Gain picks 37 and 65 and lose pick 47
Daicos is a mercurial small forward who makes things happen. He has a nice burst of pace and dances through and around tackles, seeming almost untouchable at times. With the ball, he is extremely dangerous, with great kicking, composure, decision making and a genuine x-factor. He has shown that he can move up the ground and spend stints in the midfield, where his clean hands, agility and kicking make him just as dangerous.
Size: 185cm/82kg
Position: Half-Back
Plays Like: Rory Laird
In the Mix: Bailey Morrish, Jonty Scharenberg, Sam Walker
Looking to add class to their half-back and wing stocks, North Melbourne could look to mature aged player Luke Ryan. The 20-year-old started his first year in the VFL in Coburg’s development squad but soon made his senior debut and had an outstanding season as a small defender. Ryan was named the most promising young talent in the VFL and also named in the back pocket in the VFL team of the year.
As a small defender, Ryan is an elite interceptor, he averaged 9.4 intercept possessions (number one in the VFL) and an elite 41 intercept marks in 10 games. He is also very good one-on-one and provides great run and carry, with his clean skills and great decision making. Athletic half-back Bailey Morrish would also be in the mix here as one of the standout half-backs in the draft.
Size: 186cm/80kg
Position: Midfield
Plays Like: Matt Priddis
In the Mix: Declan Watson, Kobe Mutch
Scharenberg is one of the best clearance players in the draft, perhaps the best. In tight, he has exceptionally clean hands, great awareness and vision as well as an excellent handpass that can release an outside runner.
What he does better than most, is use his strength to stand up in a tackle, while lifting his arms – draws opposition players to him, allowing him to handpass to a player in space, something only the best clearance players in the AFL do. He has played senior SANFL footy, collecting 28 possessions in a game against grand finalists Woodville-West Torrens.
He also stood up in the big games, standing out as one of the best in the Glenelg reserves’ grand final loss, recording 27 touches and 5 clearances. Scharenberg was also awarded best on ground in the Under 18’s grand final after collecting 34 possessions and 12 tackles. However, his main limitation is his poor kicking skills. He often detracts from his good work with a poor kick – something that will need to rectified at AFL level. Looking for the best available, Watson or Mutch could also be considered here.
Size: 187cm/80kg
Position: Half-back
Plays Like: Andrew Mackie
In the Mix: Zac Fisher, Kobe Mutch, Bailey Morrish
With a very talented list, the Eagles can again go for the best player available in Sam Walker. Walker is an extremely reliable defender who can lock down on both tall and small opponents as well as provide rebound from defence. Running off half-back, he has an excellent left foot which can hit a long target. He has clean hands at ground level and moves through traffic well, where his composure is outstanding. Walker reads the flight of the ball exceptionally well and has the ability to take a strong intercept mark. At his height, with his clean skills and ability to lock down on a variety of forwards, Walker is reminiscent of Geelong half-back Andrew Mackie. Small WA midfielder Zac Fisher could also be selected here.
Size: 193cm/90kg
Position: Key Defender
Plays Like: Alex Rance
In the Mix: Cameron Zurhaar, Matt Guelfi, Zac Fisher
Looking to strengthen their key defender stocks, the Dockers could look towards ready-made defender Jack Maibaum. Maibaum is an extremely task-oriented defender who rarely gets beaten. He is extremely good one-on-one in the air and on the ground and featured in the All-Australian team for the National Carnival, as well as the TAC Cup Team Of The Year. He reads the play exceptionally well and is a good intercept player. Maibaum is very reliable with ball in hand and rarely turns it over. If the Dockers are after more forward line depth, athletic WA half-forward Cameron Zurhaar would be an excellent pickup.
Size: 177cm/69kg
Position: Midfield
Plays Like: Lachie Neale
In the Mix: N/A
Pick Changes: Gain Picks 43 and 73, lose pick 55
The Saints will look to bid on Brown as the best available player at this pick. Brown is a natural footballer who knows how to find the footy and performs well consistently. The Pies are unlikely to let him go at this pick.
Size: 189cm/69kg
Position: Outside Midfielder
Plays Like: Isaac Smith
In the Mix: Bailey Morrish, Luke Ryan, Kobe Mutch
The Saints biggest list requirement is a wingman with genuine pace and skills; they could pick Williams as the player to fill that criteria . Williams has pace to burn and at full flight, few can catch him. He loves to collect the ball in space across half back, run at full pace to the 50 and use his raking right foot to slot a goal. His kicking, both for goal and up the ground, is terrific – he rarely misses a target.
He has great decision making and clean hands, and is always looking to take on the play and move the ball forward. His biggest weakness is his lack of an inside game and he will need to build on that to become a genuine AFL quality player. Strong marking and dashing small defender Bailey Morrish could also be considered here to bring class to the Saints backline.
Size: 186cm/76kg
Position: Half-Back
Plays Like: Easton Wood
In the Mix: Luke Ryan, Hamish Brayshaw, Kobe Mutch,
With Corey Enright retired and Mackie in his 30s, the Cats could look to Morrish to fill the void they will leave. Morrish is another player who has bolted up draft boards after a strong finish to the year with excellent performances in the All Stars game and the Draft Combine.
During the All Stars game, Morrish displayed his elite intercepting ability, with an ability to read the flight of the ball and take an overhead mark extremely well. He also showed reliability in defence, where he was able to hold his man as well as help out teammates.
Morrish also showed that some nice foot skills coming out of defence, where he is willing to take a risk and set up the team. He followed it up with an outstanding Combine, where he came equal first in the running vertical leap test and top ten in the 20m sprint, repeat sprints and standing vertical leap tests. He shows great promise as an athletic, intercepting and rebounding defender and his end to the season could see him shoot further up the draft order.
Morrish’s biggest weakness is his inability to find as much of the ball as the other, more highly rated, prospects, collecting 20 or more possessions in only one game this year. If he is still available, Coburg half-back Luke Ryan should also be considered here.
Size: 188cm/79kg
Position: Half-Forward
Plays Like: James Sicily
In the Mix: Matt Guelfi, Zac Fisher, Bailey Morrish
Zurhaar is a lead-up medium forward with a terrific vertical leap and overhead marking.
At his size, he is difficult to match-up on. Too quick and agile for key defenders, and too strong in the air for small defenders. At ground level, he is clean and powerful, with the ability to break tackles. He can find the contested ball and stands up in the tackle. He is a hard runner and can kick well off either foot.
In time, he will likely develop into a tall, goal kicking midfielder, but at this stage, looks set to start as a lead-up forward with nice goal sense – in a similar fashion to the Hawks’ James Sicily. The Dockers could also look to WA pair Guelfi and Fisher to bolster their midfield.
Size: 184cm/79kg
Position: Midfield
Plays Like: Sam Mitchell
In the Mix: Willem Drew, Patrick Lipinski, Joe Atley
Having already selected 3 terrific players, the Bombers have the freedom to select the best player available, in Kobe Mutch. As a natural footballer who knows how to find the ball, Mutch’s biggest asset is his footy IQ which allows him to get first hands on the footy and make great decisions. He’s tough at stoppages, has clean hands and has a terrific endurance base.
He is able to kick well off either foot and hits a target more often than not. Tied to the GWS academy. Mutch’s only weakness is that he doesn’t excel at any one thing. He’s not an elite kick and is not blessed with athleticism, but it does not impact his game. Willem Drew could also be selected here as a tough, tall midfielder who can play forward and back.
Size: 196cm/84kg
Position: Key Forward/Defender
Plays Like: Harris Andrews
In the Mix: Hamish Brayshaw, Patrick Lipinski, Josh Begley
With both Harry Taylor and Tom Lonergan in their 30s, the Cats could look to draft a key defender and, at this point, Himmelberg is the best available. He is an extremely raw talent, has the versatility to play at either end, but seems more suited as a defender.
Like Brisbane’s Harris Andrews, Himmelberg is not overly athletic, but stands out due to his marking ability. Both forward and back, he reads the flight exceptionally and marks the ball at its highest position, making it very hard for opponents to spoil. As a defender, he is a terrific intercept mark and punches from behind.
While not being athletic, Himmelberg has terrific lateral movement and can evade tackles with ease. Unfortunately, he can let himself down with his disposal at times, but would likely have improved that aspect of his game throughout the year if not for injury interruptions. Despite playing predominantly as a forward, Himmelberg will likely develop into an intercepting key defender at AFL level.
Size: 188cm/79kg
Position: Half-Forward
Plays Like: Jack Crisp
In the Mix: Joe Atley, Bailey Morrish, Sam Fisher
The Crows could look to Lipinski to again bolster their midfield stocks after missing out on Bryce Gibbs and losing a number of midfielders over the off-season. Lipinski started the year playing as a third tall forward for the Northern Knights, where his goal sense and terrific overhead marking saw him average two goals per game in the first six weeks. In round eight, he was thrown into the midfield and proved dominant with 15 possessions in the first quarter.
He finished the game with 32 touches, showing his basketball background through his composure and clean hands in traffic. He also possesses terrific endurance and is a smart footballer. He backed it up with 30 touches (15 contested) and six clearances the following week, but unfortunately broke his hand in the process. Lipinski’s weaknesses lie in his kicking and lack of pace.
However, he has shown improvement in those areas over the season, particularly whilst on the sidelines with a broken hand. In Lipinski, Adelaide are getting the prototype tall midfielder who is composed in traffic, can take an excellent overhead mark and can impact the scoreboard.
Joe Atley will be hard to pass up here as a contested ball machine, but he doesn’t have the same scope for development as Lipinski.
Size: 182cm/73kg
Position: Half-Back
In the Mix: Josh Williams, Sam Fisher, Hamish Brayshaw
With McVeigh aged 31 and Mills likely to move into the midfield in the coming years, the Swans could look to pick up a classy and reliable half-back such as Harry Morrison. Morrison boasts a penetrating right foot kick which enables him to hit both long and short targets with precision.
With ball in hand, he is extremely composed, has great vision and makes excellent decisions. As a defender, he is solid one-on-one and is a terrific interceptor of the ball owing to his strong overhead mark. With ball in hand, he is extremely composed and was one of the Bushrangers’ best in their grand final loss. He also had an exceptional draft combine, recording top ten finishes in the beep test, agility test and running vertical jump.
The biggest question mark over him is his injury concerns, having recovered from an ACL tear last year and a series of back injuries this year. The pacey wingman could be a chance here if he gets past the Saints and would be an excellent fit in a slower Sydney midfield.
Size: 191cm/82kg
Position: Key Forward
Plays Like: Jack Darling
In the Mix: N/A
Pick Changes: Gain picks 49 and 64, lose pick 56
Melbourne could look to bid on Waterman here to boost their key position talent, however, West Coast are unlikely to let him go. Waterman is a key forward in the mould of Jack Darling who, on his day, has shown that he can dominate a game.
He has a big, strong, mature body and likes to get up the ground, taking marks as high up as centre-half-back. His overhead marking is very strong and he has great game sense, knowing when to play on and bomb it long to a one-on-one and when to slow the play down and consider his options.
In terms of weaknesses, Waterman is not overly athletic and needs to improve at ground level. His biggest issue though, is his height. At 191cm, Waterman will not be the number one key forward at AFL level.
Size: 193cm/93kg
Position: Key Defender/Forward
Plays Like: Matthew Pavlich
In the Mix: Esava Ratugolea, Oscar Junker, Judah Dundon, Ben Long
With a strong group of smaller players, Melbourne could look to select a key position player with their first pick. They will be hoping that Himmelberg is available, however, McLarty is far from a consolation prize.
The Oakleigh Charger started the year as a key defender but showed throughout the year that he can be an excellent key forward. McLarty’s biggest strength is his marking.
He has a nice leap and attacks the ball in the air, marking it at his highest point. On the lead he is quick and moves up the ground well. He also uses his big frame to bully opponents out of the way in marking contests and when running with the ball. Raw Fijian prospect Ratugolea is also a chance here after several strong performances forward throughout the TAC Cup.
Size: 186cm/84kg
Position: Midfield
Plays Like: Ben Cunnington
In the Mix: Sam Fisher, Zac Fisher, Patrick Lipinski
Looking for more midfield depth, the Blues could select Joe Atley with their third pick in the draft. Atley is a mature-bodied clearance machine who dominates the contested ball with his strength.
At the stoppages, he has extremely clean hands, excellent vision and awareness. Additionally, he often lifts his arms in the tackle, utilising his excellent handpass skills to find an outside runner. He also has a subtle sidestep which helps him break tackles and gives him time to hit a teammate. He captained the Bendigo Pioneers this year whilst also managing to play a couple senior games for Geelong’s VFL team where he did not look out of place.
In space, he has neat kicking skills and the ability to kick a goal when going forward. During the All Stars match, he took an excellent pack mark, showing recruiters his aerial ability, of which they were previously unaware.
He is another stoppage specialist who will fall in the draft simply because he has no outstanding quality such as athleticism, height, or an elite kick – he could well be a steal for the Blues at this pick. If the Blues were looking for outside class, either Sam Fisher or Ben Long would be excellent selections here.
Size: 186cm/85kg
Position: Midfield/Half-Forward
Plays Like: Maverick Weller
In the Mix: Sam Fisher, Taylin Duman, Oscar Junker
Brayshaw has grappled with injury throughout the year and, as such, struggled to put together a series of injury-free games. He pushed through the pain late in the season to play as a deep forward during Sandringham’s finals series, showing his toughness and determination, as well as highlighting his versatility.
When injury free, Brayshaw plays a lot like his brother; a nice kick (although not as good as Angus) who loves the physicality of the contest. Where he differs through, is his overhead marking.
When forward, Brayshaw has a terrific overhead mark and positions his body excellently. He is also dangerous on the lead and has a nice goal sense, kicking four goals against the Gippsland Power. Another big plus for Brayshaw, is his outstanding leadership qualities. Classy NSW left footer Sam Fisher could also be selected here and would add excitement and class to the Swans forward line.
Size: 175cm/61kg
Position: Midfielder
Plays Like: Caleb Daniel
In the Mix: Hamish Brayshaw, Willem Drew, Dylan Clarke
The Western Bulldogs have been known to pick natural footballers, regardless of size, and Fisher fits that description perfectly. He is not blessed with elite athleticism or kicking, but performs well week in, week out.
He has terrific hands that are clean at ground level and is extremely quick to fire off a handpass. At stoppages, Fisher attacks the ball hard, has a nice sidestep to get out of trouble and, although not lightning quick, his first couple of steps are swift enough to burst from the stoppage and find space.
A terrific leader and tough footballer, Hamish Brayshaw could also be selected here.
Size: 180cm/76kg
Position: Half-Forward
Plays Like: Shaun Higgins
In the Mix: Harry Morrison, Brandan Parfitt, Oscar Junker
After selecting two on-ballers with their first two picks, the Crows could look to Fisher as an extremely classy ball user, although he’s tied to GWS through their academy. His biggest weapon is his left foot which can pinpoint short and long targets.
He has spent most of his time across half-forward, where his goal sense, vision and kicking make him very damaging. He has also shown an ability to rotate through the midfield. In the Allies’ last game, he spent time across half-forward and through the midfield, where he collected 17 disposals and four clearances at an elite 82 per cent disposal efficiency. In this game, he showed his evasiveness, composure and elite decision making. He has played 11 senior NEAFL games, averaging 14.4 disposals for the Giants.
He was also named as one of only 2 U18’s players in the Giants’ NEAFL grand final team, where he played well and collected 11 disposals. His biggest weakness is his lack of a right foot – something he will need to sort out at AFL level.
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