The national draft is now less than a month away — and like many of the AFL clubs, we’ve settled on our final draft board.

Foxfooty.com.au presents the full and final 2024 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. LEVI ASHCROFT

Position: Midfielder

Size: 179cm

Clubs: Sandringham Dragons/Old Brighton Grammarians

AFL player comparison: Lachie Neale

In a year were the Pick 1 race has been so wide open, Ashcroft’s elite consistency across all levels for three straight years is inarguable. AFL Talent Ambassador Kevin Sheehan said it best during a Fox Footy broadcast of a Vic Metro game earlier this year: “He can do most things very well and his consistency of performance – everywhere he plays, quarter-by-quarter – is enormous.” Ashcroft earned All-Australian honours for the second consecutive season after averaging 25.5 disposals, 3.5 inside 50s and 3.2 clearances. He also booted four goals, with two of them coming in clutch moments. He also stuffed the stats sheet at Coates Talent League level, averaging 30.8 disposals, 5.2 clearances and nearly 1.5 goals per game. Remarkably, Ashcroft played in three straight Sandringham Dragons premierships, including as a 15-year-old in 2022 alongside brother Will. The Lions at the draft will match a father-son bid on Ashcroft, who’s already committed to the club his father Marcus won three flags at and his brother Will recently claimed a Norm Smith Medal with. The bid is unlikely to come at Pick 1, but surely won’t slide beyond Pick 5.

2. JAGGA SMITH

Position: Midfielder

Size: 181cm

Clubs: Oakleigh Chargers/Richmond

AFL player comparison: Zak Butters

The absolute definition of a ball magnet — but he’s more than that. Smith rarely plays a poor game, due to his footy smarts, cleanliness, inside-outside balance and sickeningly good work ethic, which all helps his ability to find the footy. He finished runner-up in the Larke Medal and was named captain of the All-Australian team after an outstanding national carnival for Vic Metro, averaging more disposals (29.2), contested possessions (13.8) and clearances (6.8) than any other player. That all came amid some bonkers performances for the Chargers at Coates Talent League level, accumulating 33, 33, 50 (yes 50), 40, 42 and 33 disposals across a six-game stretch. Smith’s prospects then were only enhanced playing – and impressing – in three Richmond VFL matches. On VFL debut in tough conditions against Williamstown, Smith racked up a game-high 31 disposals, 18 contested possessions, eight clearances, eight intercepts and five marks as he showed off his full workrate. He backed it up over the next two weeks, finishing with 27 disposals and 24 disposals respectively against Collingwood and Sandringham. Importantly, Smith improved his damage and metres gained with ball in-hand as the year went on. He’s right in Richmond’s Pick 1 frame — and could still be on the board by the time the Tigers have their second pick — but all of North Melbourne, Carlton, Adelaide and Melbourne will strongly consider him too.

3. FINN O’SULLIVAN

Position: Midfielder

Size: 182cm

Clubs: Oakleigh Chargers/Koroit

AFL player comparison: Marcus Bontempelli/Sam Walsh

Came into the year as the No. 1 pick favourite — and could end it by being taken with the No. 1 pick, despite an injury-interrupted season. After making the Under 18 All-Australian team as a bottom-ager last year and winning the Kevin Sheehan Medal as the Under 16 MVP the year before that, O’Sullivan endured a luckless run throughout 2024. He fractured his thumb in his first Talent League game for the Oakleigh Chargers then hurt his finger playing for the AFL Academy, which saw him sidelined for several weeks as the issue required surgery. He came back for Vic Country’s last two matches of the national carnival, but wasn’t at his best by his own admission. But O’Sullivan in August represented the Tigers in the VFL for one game against the Sandringham Zebras. He finished with 12 disposals, but crucially six of them led to Richmond scores – including two goals of his own — with scouts noting he didn’t look out of place against state league opposition. It reminded on-lookers of his undeniable on-field class, to go with his explosive ball-winning capabilities. He’s not a big accumulator of the footy, but recruiters love his ability to change a game without having mass disposals. O’Sullivan finished off his 2024 campaign with two impressive Coates Talent League outings for the Oakleigh Chargers, kicking 3.2 from 18 disposals against Sandringham before starring against the GWV Rebels in a losing preliminary final, booting 2.1 from 20 disposals, eight marks, eight inside 50s and five tackles. O’Sullivan also tested well at the draft combine, finishing eighth in the agility test (8.136 seconds) and second in the running vertical jump (93cm). He’s one of three players in Richmond’s Pick 1 mix. If the Tigers opt for another prospect, it’s hard to see the on-baller slipping past Carlton, which traded up the order to land Pick 3.

4. SID DRAPER

Position: Midfielder

Size: 182cm

Clubs: South Adelaide/Willunga

AFL player comparison: Chad Warner

As ready-made for AFL level as any draft prospect this year. Asked to describe himself as a footballer, Draper said: “Fast, powerful, agile, clean and competitive.” He played with maturity beyond his years as a 16-year-old – he turned 17 after SA’s campaign had finished – taking out his state’s MVP award as he averaged 25 disposals, 12 contested possessions, seven inside 50s and four clearances across four games. The start of his 2024 campaign was hindered by a shin stress fracture, yet he still earned All-Australian honours again, averaging 21.0 disposals, 8.0 contested possessions, 3.7 clearances and a team-high 5.5 score involvements. Draper then starred for South Adelaide’s league team late in the season, averaging 22.2 disposals, 6.2 tackles and 4.7 clearances across six games. While he’s a similar size to many of the other top midfield prospects in this year’s class, none of them possess the same raw speed, change of direction and power from stoppages as Draper, who’s the brother of ex-Collingwood player Arlo Draper. The sense is Draper will first come into calculations at Pick 3 (Carlton). But Adelaide — the team Draper has supported since he was a kid — has been the club most strongly linked to him at Pick 4 — and he could be the speedy star midfielder the club is crying out for.

5. SAM LALOR

Position: Medium forward/midfielder

Size: 187cm

Clubs: GWV Rebels/Bacchus Marsh

AFL player comparison: Dustin Martin

Has always been regarded as a top-10 prospect, but there’s now a good chance Lalor is taken by the Tigers at Pick 1, such is the excitement around his potential at AFL level. A clean, powerful and physical forward-midfielder with a penetrating kick and strong one-on-one ability, Lalor consistently impacts games forward of centre. he was hampered by foot, quad and hip issues at the start of this season, but returned to the field in the middle of the year with a bang, booting a lazy 7.3 for Geelong Grammar in a school game. He then kicked 3.1 from 16 touches and three clearances in an eye-catching display for Vic Country against the Allies, before clunking two telling marks against Vic Metro in the carnival final. He also averaged 23.0 disposals, 6.2 clearances, 5.8 marks and 6.0 inside 50s from four Coates Talent League games for the Rebels. His strong showing in the back-end of the year and enormous potential at AFL level now have him at the pointy end of the 2024 pool. The growing expectation is Richmond selects the Victoria Country star with the first overall selection. A player who wore the No. 4 guernsey, idolised Dustin Martin and plays in comparable fashion — it seems a dream partnership. Should the Tigers overlook him, Carlton, Adelaide and Melbourne, surely at the latest, would all consider him strongly.

6. HARVEY LANGFORD

Position: Midfielder

Size: 190cm

Clubs: Dandenong Stingrays/Mount Martha

AFL player comparison: Jordan Dawson

So much to like about this gun big-bodied midfielder, who’s shown elite consistency across all levels this year. He was named co-Larke Medallist after a mighty national carnival for Vic Country averaging 25.5 disposals, 10.8 contested possessions, 6.2 clearances, 6.2 marks, 6.2 inside 50s and 129.5 ranking points across four games. Langford was also dominant across 15 games for the Stingrays in the Talent League, averaging 25.9 disposals and 4.7 clearances. Whether it’s by hand or foot, inside or outside, on the ground or in the air, Langford is a handful for opposition midfield groups. What impressed scouts during the national champs was Langford’s damage forward of centre, averaging 7.5 score involvements and 2.0 score assists, to go with a Coates League season tally of 20.17. Add in the fact he’s taller than most of this year’s other top midfield prospects, he’s an attractive prospect for clubs with early picks. Langford looms as a top-10 pick on draft night. There’s a slight chance the Tigers take him at Pick 1, but if he’s still there at Pick 6 they would strongly consider him. Rival clubs recently strongly linked him to Melbourne (Picks 5 and 9), too.

7. MURPHY REID

Position: Midfielder/medium forward

Size: 181cm

Clubs: Sandringham Dragons/South Melbourne Districts

AFL player comparison: Harry Sheezel

If anyone has any doubts on Reid, go back and watch his national carnival game for Vic Metro against the Allies. In tough, wet conditions, Reid was the cleanest player on the field, finishing with 24 disposals, 12 contested possessions, six score involvements and five intercepts. He then kicked three goals from 31 touches and eight clearances against South Australia to show how damaging he can be close to goal. Reid would go on to claim Vic Metro’s MVP award and make the All-Australian team. While he’s not the tallest or quickest midfielder in the draft class, Reid is one of the shrewdest and most composed in traffic, while he’s also added forward craft to his trick bag. His ability to perform in big games was personified by his Coates Talent League grand final performance as a bottom-ager last year, booting two goals from 19 touches in Sandringham’s premiership triumph before two three-goal hauls in the Dragons’ 2024 finals campaign. Reid is likely to come into the draft mix from Richmond’s Pick 6 onwards, with St Kilda and Melbourne to consider him too. Some rival clubs, though, wouldn’t be surprised if he slipped into the teens.

8. JOSH SMILLIE

Position: Midfielder

Size: 194cm

Clubs: Eastern Ranges/Park Orchards

AFL player comparison: Tom Green

Was higher than this spot earlier in the year. But in a midfield-heavy class, Smillie has the height and size advantage over other top 2024 on-ball prospects. He showed glimpses of his powerful best across a solid four-game campaign for Vic Metro, averaging 18.8 disposals, 10.2 contested possessions, 6.8 score involvements 5.8 clearances, although he missed out on All-Australian selection. But those who watched Smillie’s three-goal, 34-disposals Coates Talent League performance against the Lions academy earlier this year said it was worthy of a player in Pick 1 calculations, for not only did he show off his power and stoppage craft, but he also showcased explosive running and precise kicking when in space. Smillie still seems well placed to be taken at the top-end of this year’s draft, with Melbourne (Pick 5) the earliest link at this stage. It’s hard to see him sliding past St Kilda and Richmond’s top-10 picks.

9. ALIX TAURU

Position: Medium defender

Size: 193cm

Clubs: Gippsland Power/Warragul Industrials

AFL player comparison: Tom Stewart

The bolter from nowhere. Was just inside foxfooty.com.au’s top 30 power rankings in July. Next month, he could be taken as early as Pick 2 in the draft. A high-flying, intercept-marking machine, Tauru’s leap and ability to read the play in defence appeals to AFL clubs. He missed games in the early part of the season with a hip injury, but has soared into top-10 calculations over recent months following a strong finish to his Coates Talent League campaign, which saw him boot seven goals and average 15.4 disposals and 5.7 marks from his final nine games before recording the best running vertical jump result (94cm) at the draft combine. Tauru’s upside at AFL level is enormous and has clubs excited, hence nearly all 18 teams interviewed him at national draft combine. It was there rival clubs sensed the strong attachment North Melbourne (Pick 2) had to the exciting Gippsland Power utility. It’d be a bold, aggressive call by the Kangaroos to take Tauru that early in such a stacked draft pool when many of his peers have a stronger and more sustained body of work — hence the widely-held view the Roos would be prepared to slide down the order, perhaps to Richmond’s Pick 6. If the Roos keep Pick 2, there’s every chance they just select Tauru. If they pass on him, it’s hard to see him slipping past that second Richmond pick.

10. HARRY ARMSTRONG

Position: Tall forward

Size: 193cm

Clubs: Sandringham Dragons/Ormond

AFL player comparison: Jeremy Cameron

Armstrong has come with a rush in 2024, with AFL clubs quickly falling in love with the gun goalkicker. Despite playing just three games for Vic Metro, Armstrong kicked an equal champs-high nine goals — including five in the final against Vic Country — as he showed off his penetrating left-foot kick, competitiveness in the air and mobility around the ground. Armstrong then took that form back to the Dragons, kicking five four-goal hauls in his final eight matches to finish with 27.10 fort the Coates Talent League season. He’s also been dominant at APS level under Matthew Lloyd for Haileybury College across the past two years, including kicking 10 of his side’s 22 goals in a game earlier in the year. Armstrong now loom as a top-10 selection. There’s an outside chance Melbourne (Pick 5) takes him with its first selection, although the sense is the Dees will more likely target a midfielder at that pick. It’s most likely Armstrong, at this stage, goes to Richmond (Pick 6), St Kilda (Picks 7 and 8) or Melbourne (Pick 9).

11. LEO LOMBARD

Position: Midfielder

Size: 178cm

Clubs: Gold Coast Suns Academy/Broadbeach

AFL player comparison: Touk Miller

Another academy gun for the Suns looms. Lombard was a deserving co-winner of this year’s Larke Medal, averaging 26.2 disposals, 10.5 contested possessions, 6.0 inside 50s, 5.0 score involvements, 4.8 clearances, 4.5 tackles and 119.8 ranking points. Not only did he show off his power, competitiveness and speed at stoppages, he also proved he’s improved his disposal efficiency and now able to have more impact on the outcome of games. Lombard also kicked five goals and averaged 17.4 disposals from eight VFL games for the Suns, while he as also one of the standout testers at the draft combine, finishing second in the 20m sprint (2.851 seconds) and first in the agility test (7.812 seconds). It comes after Lombard’s whirlwind 2023 campaign. Not only did Lombard play for the Allies in the Under 18 champs then grace the MCG for the Under 17s AFL Grand Final curtain-raiser match, he played in the Suns’ inaugural VFL premiership side — as a 16-year-old. An early bid looms for the Suns academy prospect, with St Kilda (Picks 7 and 8) a good chance to pull the trigger first. The Suns, though, will be well placed to match the bid.

12. ISAAC KAKO

Position: Small forward

Size: 175cm

Clubs: Calder Cannons/Northern Saints

AFL player comparison: Izak Rankine

Get excited, Bombers supporters. Kako is a player primed to thrive at AFL level and draw fans through the turnstiles for many years. Like Izak Rankine and Nick Watson before him, Kako consistently delivered eye-catching small forward performances at junior level. Blessed with speed, agility and power, Kako has a terrific athletic profile. But above all he has incredible goal sense and footy smarts. He’s also a high-impact player, personified by the fact that 32 of his 58 disposals for Vic Metro ended up in scores — a strike rate of 55 per cent. He kicked eight goals and averaged a carnival-high 8.0 score involvements and 14.5 disposals. Clubs were pleased to see him perform at the top level after two consistent years at Coates Talent League level, where he booted 44 goals from 23 games. Kako is part of Essendon’s Next Generation Academy — and with NGA bid restriction rules changing for this year’s draft, the Bombers are committed to matching a bid on the gun goalkicker, which is now highly likely come in the top 10.

13. TOBIE TRAVAGLIA

Position: Medium defender

Size: 187cm

Clubs: Bendigo Pioneers/Sandhurst

AFL player comparison: Will Day

Clubs knew he was gun prospect pre-champs, Travaglia shot up draft boards after an awesome carnival campaign for Vic Country. Travaglia was named in the Under 18 All-Australian side after averaging 21.8 disposals and 6.2 marks — of which 3.5 were intercept marks – while going at an impressive 82.5 per cent efficiency by foot. Travaglia then finished off his 2024 campaign with a flurry of eye-catching displays at Coates Talent League level, kicking 8.2 and averaging 21.8 disposals and 4.4 inside 50s from his final five matches playing primarily as a midfielder with spurts in the forward arc. Travaglia got a small taste of what professional footballer life could look like earlier this year when he played two games for Carlton’s VFL side. His second match against Richmond was particularly eye-catching, finishing with 22 disposals, nine intercepts, seven score involvements and four marks. To cap it off, he finished second in the 2km time trial at the national draft combine with a time of 6:13. Travaglia is everything you need in a mid-sized intercept defender: Athletic and competitive in the air, pinpoint with his disposal from defence and smart with his offensive-defensive balance. But Travaglia – and AFL club recruiters – can see him following a similar trajectory to Hawthorn star Will Day, who was drafted as a defender before turning into a gun midfielder at the top level. He’s now a top 10 to 15 prospect, with Richmond (Picks 10 and 11) recently linked to the Pioneer.

14. JOE BERRY

Position: Medium forward

Size: 181cm

Clubs: Murray Bushrangers/Wangaratta

AFL player comparison: Dylan Moore

A crafty and hard-working half-forward that should thrive in the modern AFL era. Berry produced a brilliant, eye-catching carnival for Vic Country where he was a threat across all four games, finishing with nine goals and averaging 13.2 disposals and 5.5 score involvements. With sharp top-end speed that allows him to get up the ground, as well as excellent creativity close to goal, Berry is your typical high forward. He’s a natural crumber, getting to the right spots where he can show off his cleanliness at ground level and innate goal sense. He kicked 27 goals for the Bushrangers this season — the most of any active Coates Talent League player — while also averaging 14.4 disposals and 3.9 inside 50s to be a joint winner of the club’s best and fairest award and earn selection in the competition’s team of the year. Berry looms as a mid first-round pick, with Richmond, Fremantle, Port Adelaide and the Giants in the mix.

15. XAVIER LINDSAY

Position: Midfielder/medium defender

Size: 183cm

Clubs: Gippsland Power/Leongatha

AFL player comparison: Scott Pendlebury

Perhaps the classiest of the class. Recruiters coming into the year liked Lindsay as a half-back, but he showed throughout the year he has an improved inside game and is reliable across any third of the ground. But it’s decision-making, pinpoint ball use, agility and speed that really catch the eye. Lindsay’s ‘Pick Me’ game for Vic Country against Vic Metro, finishing with 30 disposals, 11 marks, 10 contested possessions, eight score involvements, eight tackles, six inside 50s, six intercepts, four clearances and 585m gained. Overall, he averaged 22.7 disposals, 4.3 clearances and 5.0 tackles in three matches for Country, having missed the Allies match due to injury. Lindsay then became the first Gippsland Power player in a decade to claim the Morrish Medal as the best and fairest player in the Coates Talent League, averaging 23.4 disposals, 5.4 clearances and 5.2 inside 50s across his 12 appearances this season. Lindsay is in the top-10 mix, with Melbourne (Pick 5) perhaps the club with the earliest pick that could take him. Yet there’s a world in which Lindsay slips to teams like the Dockers and Power in the teens, such is the nature of this year’s even draft class.

16. LUKE TRAINOR

Position: Tall defender

Size: 194cm

Clubs: Sandringham Dragons/Old Brighton Grammarians

AFL player comparison: Jordan Ridley

Slid a bit in the back-half of the year, but Trainor remains one of the best key-position prospects in the draft class. From his four games for Metro, Trainor averaged 19.8 disposals (76% kicking efficiency), 5.8 marks (1.8 intercept) and 4.8 rebound 50s as he showed off his strong offensive traits, including strong overhead marking and a penetrating right-foot kick. But what AFL clubs were more impressed by was competitiveness in the air and willingness to defend. This was particularly evident against South Australia, with Trainor taking the points against Tyler Welsh in an intriguing battle, while he also had big moments against Jonty Faull and Jack Whitlock in the Metro-Country game. His performances for the AFL Academy against VFL opposition were also impressive, named best on ground against Coburg (20 disposals, 4 marks) before another strong outing against Footscray (21 disposals, 1 goal). Trainor is the grandson of 1000-goalkicker Doug Wade and nephew of AFL Commissioner Gabrielle Trainor. The earliest he might be taken, at this stage, is Pick 7 (St Kilda), but clubs wouldn’t be surprised if he slipped towards the 20s. His landing spot could be determined by how early other key-position prospects go on the night.

17. TAJ HOTTON

Position: Midfielder/medium forward

Size: 180cm

Clubs: Sandringham Dragons/Hampton Rovers

AFL player comparison: Shai Bolton

Clubs haven’t forgotten about the dangerous and creative Hotton, who was arguably the hottest player of the draft pool at the start of the season before rupturing his ACL at training in May. He had some monster Talent League games for the Dragons, most notably against the Chargers where he kicked 4.1 from 32 disposals, 10 marks, five inside 50s and five tackles. He also played a game for the AFL academy, booting two goals from 18 disposals against Coburg. Hotton had significantly improved his endurance, allowing him to spend more time on the ball. Hotton, the son of ex-Collingwood and Carlton player Trent Hotton and brother of 2022 Saints draftee Olli Hotton, is still expected to be a mid first-round pick with Richmond, in particular, said to have put some work into him. The fact so many clubs have multiple early picks this year — the Tigers, Giants, Swans and Bulldogs — probably plays into Hotton’s favour.

18. BO ALLAN

Position: Medium defender/midfielder

Size: 191cm

Clubs: Peel Thunder/Halls Head

AFL player comparison: Elliot Yeo

Allan would be higher on others’ draft boards following a strong back-end to the season. After earning All-Australian honours — he averaged 20.0 disposals, 7.3 contested possessions, 6.3 score involvements, 6.0 tackles and 3.7 clearances for WA — Allan added another nine WAFL league games to take his season tally to 11 for Peel Thunder, averaging 11.5 disposals and 3.3 tackles on his way to becoming a premiership player. Allan is a great athlete — he recorded three top-four finishes at the national draft combine, in both vertical jumps and the agility test — and has strong footy nous. He has the range that allows him to play midfield minutes and win the ball around stoppages, yet is just as comfortable playing as a rebounding defender. Some clubs believe he can be a midfielder at AFL level due to his competitiveness, while others reckon he’d be more suited to a backline role. Either way, he looms as hot property on draft night. Both West Coast (Pick 12) and Fremantle (Pick 14) have been heavily linked to Allan, but he also has interest from Richmond with its mid-first round picks (Picks 10 and 11). Considering that Richmond interest and the fact the Dockers are now behind the Eagles in the draft order, scouts would be surprised if Allan was still on the board after West Coast’s pick.

19. JOBE SHANAHAN

Position: Tall forward

Size: 194cm

Clubs: Bendigo Pioneers/Moama

AFL player comparison: Nick Riewoldt

A riser across the back-half of the season after starring on the national Under 18 stage then thriving against state league opposition. Shanahan was named at centre half-forward in the All-Australian team after an excellent carnival for the Allies, which saw him take a comp-high eight contested marks. His standout game came against Vic Country, booting three goals from with 16 disposals and nine marks (four contested) and three goals. But it was his three-game stint for Essendon’s VFL side that boosted the external attention on him, kicking 4.0 against the Northern Bullants, 2.3 against Gold Coast then 5.0 against Coburg. Shanahan finished the season with a six-goal, 17-disposal display for the Pioneers before being named in the Coates Talent League Team of the Year. Shanahan plays with grand presence in the air and has a superb pair of hands, but his mobility and ability to constantly present make him a threat around the ground as well. There’s a slight chance he sneaks in to the top 10 — should one of the Saints, Demons or Tigers want a key forward at that stage of the draft — otherwise he should be in that mid first-round mix featuring the Power, Dockers and Giants.

20. JACK WHITLOCK

Position: Tall forward/ruck

Size: 200cm

Clubs: Murray Bushrangers/Shepparton

AFL player comparison: Ben King

After a rollercoaster start to his 2024 season, Whitlock finished strong. He had a massive second half for Vic Country against Vic Metro in the final champs game to finish with 2.1 from 13 disposals and seven marks (three contested). Whitlock also thrived with more ruck time against Western Australia during the champs, finishing with 18 disposals, 11 contested possessions, eight score involvements, seven hit-outs and five clearances. That set him up for an imposing final six-game stretch with the Bushrangers at Coates League level, which saw him 15.11 and average 18.9 disposals and 5.0 marks. At 200cm and with great athleticism, Whitlock has all the traits to be an exciting key-position player at AFL level. His early draft prospects were enhanced by an increase in size and strength, which has helped him become a more ominous presence close to goal. Could be an outside chance to be taken by one of the Saints, Demons or Tigers in the top 10, but looms more likely as a later selection on night one. Could Sydney pounce?

21. SAM MARSHALL

Position: Midfielder

Size: 185cm

Clubs: Brisbane Lions Academy/Sandringham Dragons/Old Melburnians

AFL player comparison: Adam Cerra

Another top prospect linked to the Lions, but this time via their northern academy — and he looks every bit a first-round prospect. Marshall made the All-Australian team after a prolific national carnival for the Allies, averaging 27.0 disposals, 9.8 contested possessions, 5.5 marks, 4.0 clearances and 123.2 ranking points. After playing two games at VFL level for the Lions, Marshall produced his most eye-catching display in the Coates Talent League Grand Final kicking two goals from 28 disposals, nine score involvements and six inside 50s to win the best on ground medal. While scouts had always admired his consistency, running power and ball-winning ability — he averaged 23 disposals and eight marks for the AFL Academy across two games against VFL opposition earlier this year — they’ve been impressed by his ball use, decision-making and courage to take the game on during the back-half of the year. Marshall has a wide draft range — anywhere from the late teens to the mid-20s — but the Lions will make it work on draft night to match a bid.

22. JONTY FAULL

Position: Tall forward

Size: 195cm

Clubs: GWV Rebels/Redan

AFL player comparison: Charlie Curnow

There’s something special about this tall Rebel, who bounced back after a long lay-off to start the season with a back injury. Faull, who’s both strong overhead yet agile and clean below his knees for a player of his size, kicked five goals from three games for Vic Country at national champs level. He was then a dominant force at Coates Talent League level, finishing the season with an impressive 27.16 — including nine goals across two finals for the Rebels — while averaging 13.0 disposals, 4.5 marks and 102 ranking points from 11 matches. Like Jack Whitlock, Faull looms as a mid to first-round prospect.

23. ALEX DODSON

Position: Ruck

Size: 203cm

Clubs: Sturt/Payneham

AFL player comparison: Luke Jackson

The best ruck in this year’s draft class is a freak 203cm prospect who, up until a few months ago, wasn’t sure if he wanted to fully pursue an AFL or basketball career. He didn’t play footy at all in 2023, leading to him representing Australia in basketball at both Under 17 and Under 18 level. He was also a train-on player with the Adelaide 36ers – the NBL club he’s supported his whole life – as part of their development roster. But now that he’s all-in on footy, Dodson looms as a first-round prospect. After missing SA’s first champs this year game due to basketball commitments, Dodson averaged 17.3 disposals, 9.7 contested possessions, 3.7 clearances, 19.7 hit-outs and 114.1 ranking points in his three outings to earn All-Australian honours. Against Vic Metro, he snuck forward to take a strong contested mark and kick a goal in an encouraging sign. Dodson is everything you want in a modern-day athletic ruck. He’s competitive at ruck contests then follows up at ground level to help win clearances. He then works hard around the field to get to as many contests as possible and find the footy, both in the air and at ground level. Dodson is a good chance to be taken on the first round of the draft.

24. JESSE DATTOLI

Position: Medium forward/wing

Size: 178cm

Clubs: Northern Knights/Heidelberg

AFL player comparison: Josh Rachele

There’s been ample intrigue around this Northern Knights product all year, for he’s uber-talented and has match-winner traits written all over him. After an injury-interrupted 2023 campaign, Dattoli impressed both at Coates Talent League level and against the best in the national carnival. He kicked 12 goals and averaged 23.1 disposals, 6.1 score involvements and 3.9 clearances for the Knights, while he also had a promising carnival campaign for Vic Metro, booting three goals and averaging 15.2 disposals, 7.2 marks and 6.0 score involvements. Dattoli works hard between the arcs and is creative with his ball use. He’s the kind of midfielder-forward with AFL traits that could easily sneak into the teens on draft night.

25. COOPER HYNES

Position: Medium forward/midfielder

Size: 190cm

Clubs: Dandenong Stingrays/Bonbeach

AFL player comparison: Jack Ziebell

Power, power, power. Hynes, the son of John Hynes who played four games for Carlton in the late ‘90s, was a standout for the Dandenong Stingrays this season, kicking 23.12 and averaging 23.7 disposals, 7.4 score involvements and 4.7 clearances to finish runner-up in the Morrish Medal count. Hynes has brilliant inside ball-winning ability, but has kicked big bags of goals this year — including five against Gold Coast academy — while showing off his strong hands close to goal. Hynes boosted his first-round chances during the carnival, booting four goals and averaging 16.8 disposals and 5.2 score involvements playing mainly across half-forward for Vic Country. While there’s improvement left, Hynes has worked hard on his conditioning across the past 12 months to compliment his brilliant natural football ability. He has a wide draft range, with some suggesting he could taken with a late-teens pick or midway through the second round.

26. MATT WHITLOCK

Position: Tall utility

Size: 198cm

Clubs: Murray Bushrangers/Shepparton

AFL player comparison: Sam Taylor

While twin brother Jack is slightly taller and slightly higher rated overall, don’t sleep on the younger — and versatile — Whitlock. When Jack was sidelined earlier in the year due to a finger injury, Whitlock was swung from defence into the forward line – and had a day out against the Giants Academy team, booting 5.3 from 14 disposals and seven marks. He ended up kicking 27.20 for the year playing mainly as a forward, but was named at full-back in the Coates Talent League team of the year. Recruiters were pleased he had the opportunity to show his wares at the other end of the field – and just as stoked he was able to deliver, consistently presenting up at the ball all game and competing well in the air. But he was just as impressive in defence for Vic Country. While Whitlock is still lightly built and developing his frame, he’s very athletic — his running vertical jump of 90cm at the draft combine ranked sixth overall — and has shown greater ball-winning ability this year. A chance to be taken in the first round, considering the array of bids that’ll take place.

27. TOM GROSS

Position: Midfielder/medium forward

Size: 182cm

Clubs: Oakleigh Chargers/Old Trinity Grammarians

AFL player comparison: Rory Sloane

A slider, but Gross still has fans. The Chargers product made the All-Australian team, booting two goals and averaging 20.0 disposals, 7.0 score involvements, 5.2 marks, 3.5 tackles and 3.0 clearances for Vic Metro. Gross was especially impressive against South Australia, picking up 27 disposals – 11 during a defining third quarter – nine score involvements and nine marks — as he showed off his powerful aerobic capacity. His power, ferocity at the footy and strong overhead marking ability means he can impact games both close to goal and at stoppages. An outside chance to be taken in the first round — could the Giants pounce with their third first-round pick?

28. HARRISON OLIVER

Position: Medium defender

Size: 181cm

Clubs: Sandringham Dragons/St Bedes-Mentone

AFL player comparison: Luke Hodge

There’s a lot to like about this composed defender, who could be in the first-round mix due to competitiveness, decision-making and pinpoint distribution by foot. Oliver made the All-Australian team after averaging 16.2 disposals and going at 82 per cent efficiency by foot for Vic Metro. He can break the lines with his run, carry and kicking, while he also goes hard at the ball. Probably slid a touch during the back-half of the year, so is more likely a night two chance at the draft.

29. CHRISTIAN MORAES

Position: Utility

Size: 182cm

Clubs: Eastern Ranges/Knox

AFL player comparison: Luke Parker

Some clubs might have him higher on their boards, due to his elite workrate and running power. Moraes emerged as a top prospect for the 2024 draft last year, starring for the Eastern Ranges as a bottom-ager to average 26 disposals from 16 games — including one goal from 24 touches in the grand final. Due to Vic Metro’s strong on-ball brigade, Moraes didn’t get a lot of centre square time during the national carnival, starting as a half-back before playing more forward of centre. He still averaged impressive numbers — three goals and an equal carnival-high 8.0 score involvements to go with 20.8 disposals, 5.8 marks and 4.5 inside 50s — but missed out on All-Australian selection. Recruiters know how dynamic he can be though, personified by his first three games of the 2024 Coates Talent League season where he booted 9.3 and averaged 23.7 disposals, 6.7 marks and 4.0 tackles, before a five-goal, 27-disposal display against the Western Jets in Round 17. Could be a player that slips to the second round yet ultimately turns into a bargain selection. Hawthorn (Pick 33) got a glimpse of Moraes via the Box Hill program late in the season …

30. OLLIE HANNAFORD

Position: Utility

Size: 180cm

Clubs: GWV Rebels/Sandhurst

AFL player comparison: Tom Atkins

A late bolter who could go much earlier than this spot come draft night. Hannaford is a tough, speedy, exciting, versatile and well-rounded prospect who’s impressed across every line at different stages this year. He started the year in defence for the Rebels and impressed with his rebounding. As a forward, he kicked five goals against the Oakleigh Chargers in Round 18 then a bag of six in the qualifying final against the Geelong Falcons on his way to 21.8 for the season and selection in the Coates Talent League Team of the Year. He then finished as the Rebels’ best player in their grand final loss to the Dragons, picking up 24 disposals, nine tackles, seven inside 50s and a goal in a prominent performance. Could sneak into the teens in the first round.

31. BEN CAMPOREALE

Position: Midfielder

Size: 185cm

Clubs: Glenelg/Brighton Districts & Old Scholars

AFL player comparison: Brad Crouch

Blues fans have loved following the progress of Camporeale, who’s been a prolific ball-winner across two years due to his strength on the inside and excellent running ability on the outside. He was the standout for his state during the national carnival, averaging 26.8 disposals, 10.0 contested possessions, 4.5 clearances and 3.8 tackles to win South Australia’s MVP award. Camporeale is a proven big-game performer, named best on ground in last year’s Under 17s Futures game (30 disposals, 8 marks) before a strong 24-disposal, six-tackle outing for the AFL Academy against Footscray earlier this year. Camporeale is father-son eligible to Carlton as his dad is Blues premiership player and All-Australian Scott Camporeale. Whether a bid on Camporeale comes before or after the Blues’ second selection (Pick 38) remains a mystery, but most scouts think it’ll come afterwards, which would be a great result for Carlton.

32. NOAH MRAZ

Position: Tall defender

Size: 198cm

Clubs: Dandenong Stingrays/Noble Park

AFL player comparison: Darcy Moore

Probably would’ve been much higher on this board — and been taken earlier in the draft — if it wasn’t for navicular foot issue this season. Mraz managed two Talent League games for the Stingrays and played in both AFL Academy hit-outs against VFL opposition before his diagnosis. But the 198cm Stingray is still considered one of the best key defenders in the draft pool. He’s strong both in the air and at ground level for a player of his size, while his defensive positioning and closing speed are also standout traits. Scouts, too, love his competitive mindset and workrate. Looms as a second-round pick.

33. CHARLIE NICHOLLS

Position: Tall utility

Size: 197cm

Clubs: Central District/Min-Man

AFL player comparison: Harry Petty

This South Australian with vice-like hands has fans at AFL club level, mainly around his incredible pack marking ability, as well as his size and athleticism. Nicholls burst onto the scene at the start of the season, booting 13 goals from his first six SANFL Under 18s games. He then put on a breathtaking marking display against Vic Country, but was inaccurate in front of goal, finishing with 1.3 from 11 disposals and nine marks (four contested). But one of the best things for Nicholls was SA’s decision to play him behind the ball — a role he quickly adapted to, finishing with 10 disposals and six marks (four intercept) against Vic Metro. Post-champs, Nicholls had exposure at SANFL reserves level then had a strong Under 18s finals campaign with Central District. More likely to be taken on night two of the draft, possibly lower than this position.

34. JASPER ALGER

Position: Medium forward

Size: 182cm

Clubs: Oakleigh Chargers/Warragul

AFL player comparison: Toby Greene

A goalkicker with a lot of AFL traits. Alger is a strong overhead mark for a player of his size, while he’s also quick on the burst — personified by him ranking fourth in the 20m sprint (2.95 seconds) and 10th in the agility test (8.14 seconds) at the national draft combine. But Alger is crafty forward who knows where the goals are. He kicked five goals from four games for Vic Country — including three against South Australia — while his four-goal effort against the Calder Cannons in the Wildcard Round final was eye-catching. No. 34 might be a bit high for some clubs, but Alger has big upside.

35. TOM SIMS

Position: Tall forward

Size: 199cm

Clubs: Northern Knights/Montmorency

AFL player comparison: Charlie Dixon

The powerful and versatile Sims, who’s also a strong ruck option, plays with great presence on the field, marks the ball well and covers the ground well for a player of his size. He had a big start to the year with 15 goals from his five Talent League games for the Knights — including 7.4 from 15 disposals and 10 marks against the Oakleigh Chargers — before hitting a lean patch in the middle of the year. Sims kicked 4.5 from four champs games for Vic Metro, but it could’ve been a more fruitful haul if more opportunities were taken. Still, his ability in the ruck late in the Coates season was pivotal for the Knights and added another string to his bow. Considering the array of top-end key forwards in this year’s crop, Sims will likely have to wait until night two to get picked up at the draft.

36. HAMISH DAVIS

Position: Medium forward

Size: 190cm

Clubs: Claremont/Subiaco

AFL player comparison: Will Hayward

Arguably WA’s second-best prospect after Bo Allan, Davis has many tricks he can bring to an AFL club. He’s athletic and powerful in the air, but his strong aerobic capacity — highlighted by the fact he ran the 2km time trial at the national combine in 6:18 (ranked fifth) — makes him a threat around the ground. Davis starred at every level he played at this year. After dominating for Claremont at Colts level — he kicked 14 goals and average 23 disposals from nine games — Davis thrived at the national carnival, kicking 7.7 and averaging 14.5 disposals and 6.0 score involvements across four matches. He then finished the year in Claremont’s WAFL league team, with standout performances against Subiaco (3.1 from 16 disposals) and East Fremantle (4.0 from 21 disposals) before producing a 30-disposal display in the colts grand final to win the Mel Whinnen medal as the best player on the ground. More likely to be a second-round selection at this stage.

37. JAMES BARRAT

Position: Tall utility

Size: 194cm

Clubs: Bendigo Pioneers/Leitchville Gunbower

AFL player comparison: Tom Barrass

A popular member of the Vic Country set-up, Barrat showed impressive versatility this year. He booted 16.18 from his first six Coates Talent League games then kicked two goals against South Australia in Vic Country’s opening championships clash. But an AFL club-led push saw Barrat swung into defence for the final two games of Country’s carnival — and he thrived on the big stage by averaging 11 touches and six intercepts. He then carried that form as a defender back to the Pioneers, averaging 18.8 disposals, 9.2 marks and 8.0 rebound 50s from his final six home and away games, before producing a two-goal, 25-disposal display in Bendigo’s wildcard clash against the Stingrays. Barrat won the Neville Strauch best and fairest award for the Pioneers’ boys team for season 2024. An aggressive and competitive player with a strong pair of hands, Barrat looms as a second-round draft pick.

38. ANGUS CLARKE

Position: Medium defender

Size: 189cm

Clubs: Glenelg/East Gambier

AFL player comparison: Mason Redman

A tall intercept defender with a high footy IQ and elite skills, Clarke has caught the eye of many clubs this year. He played a starring role for South Australia at the national carnival, averaging 17 disposals and two intercept marks per match. Clarke also played 10 games at Under 18 level for Glenelg where he averaged 16.7 disposals and ran his 2km time trial at the national draft combine in 6:16 — ranked third overall.

39. JACK OUGH

Position: Wing/midfielder

Size: 194cm

Clubs: GWV Rebels/Wentworth

AFL player comparison: Joel Freijah

Put himself on the radar with a strong finish to his 2024 campaign. After averaging 13.5 touches from four matches for Vic Country in the carnival where he impressed with his workrate, Ough starred across an eight-game stretch for the Rebels, averaging 25.1 disposals, 5.0 tackles and 4.3 marks where he spent more time on the ball. Against the Geelong Falcons, he amassed 33 disposals, 20 contested possessions and nine clearances as he showed off an improving inside game. Considering his height and versatility, clubs are optimistic he could be an inside midfielder at AFL level — to the point where some believe he’d be worth of being taken inside the top 30.

40. LOGAN SMITH

Position: Ruck

Size: 204cm

Clubs: GWS Giants Academy/Queanbeyan

AFL player comparison: Brodie Grundy

A Giant conundrum looms for GWS as its top academy prospect could attract a bid close to their second-round pick. His height and versatility. A mobile ruck who looks the real deal with his aerobic capacity, follow-up work at ground level and aerial ability, Smith had an excellent 2024 campaign. He averaged 18.3 disposals, 4.0 marks and 26.7 hit-outs from his three Talent League games for the Giants academy before being the Allies’ No. 1 ruck at the champs, averaging 10.5 disposals, 7.0 contested possessions and 21.5 hit-outs. He also impressed in four Giants VFL games, including a 19-disposal, five-mark, 28-hitout display against Sydney. The Giants, as it stands, hold Picks 37 and 56. They’ll be hoping a bid on Smith comes after Pick 37 — which will move up the order after other bids — but the 204cm big man has been on the radar of clubs for a long time.

41. KAYLE GERREYN

Position: Tall forward/ruck

Size: 199cm

Clubs: West Perth/Joondalup Kinross

AFL player comparison: Rowan Marshall/Riley Thilthorpe

Another emerging bolter from WA, Gerreyn has got some real AFL attributes. He kicked five goals and averaged 6.5 score involvements from four games for WA at the carnival, before kicking 15.10 from his final eight games with West Perth across both colts and league. One aspect that was particularly noticeable during the champs was that he’s a beautiful, natural kick of the footy for a player of his size. Then at the same time, he’s not afraid to throw his weight around, both inside 50 and at stoppage. He’s a genuine forward-ruck that has clubs excited. Should be taken in the second round.

42. SAM DAVIDSON

Position: Medium forward

Size: 191cm

Clubs: Richmond (VFL)/St Kevin’s Old Boys

AFL player comparison: Ollie Dempsey

The best mature-age prospect in the class — and he could continue one of footy’s great recruiting streaks. Davidson this year was recognised for a breakout VFL season by claiming the Fothergill-Round-Mitchell Medal, which is awarded to the most promising player aged 24 or under. In a good omen for Davidson, the past 17 consecutive Fothergill-Round-Mitchell Medal winners — including Michael Barlow, Michael Hibberd, Kane Lambert, Nic Newman, Luke Ryan and Bayley Fritsch — have been drafted onto an AFL list. Davidson, 22, did most of his damage inside 50 for the Tigers’ VFL side this year, kicking 26.13 and averaging 14.4 disposals, but he also showed off his versatility by playing on the wing and, at times, in the ruck. He has terrific aerobic capacity — he ran his 2km time trial at the state draft combine in 6:12 — but is so competitive in the air too. Richmond has taken several players from its VFL list in recent years. Could Davidson be the next?

43. HARRY O’FARRELL

Position: Tall defender

Size: 197cm

Clubs: Calder Cannons/Maribyrnong Park

AFL player comparison: Harry Himmelberg

Had an injury-riddled draft year, but O’Farrell is a key defensive prospect expected to be on an AFL list next year. He played the first two Talent League games for the Cannons then impressed for the AFL Academy against Coburg with his strength, defensive nous and rebounding ability. O’Farrell then injured his ankle in his second champs game for Vic Metro, resulting in a two-month stint on the sidelines. When he returned for the Cannons, he was swung forward and kicked 2.4 from 10 touches before suffering a concussion in the next game. He has the mobility to play on either tall or small forwards due to his aerial presence and good judgement. 

44. LACHIE JAQUES

Position: Medium defender

Size: 185cm

Clubs: Geelong Falcons/St Mary’s

AFL player comparison: Tom Stewart

The Falcons co-captain has come from the clouds this year. Jaques caught the attention of recruiters with a promising start to the season, averaging 26 disposals and 7.7 intercepts from his first three matches. He was then named at half-back in the All-Australian team from the national championships, averaging 16.2 disposals at 78.5 per cent efficiency for Vic Country. Jaques has a great ability to read the play and use the footy precisely coming out of half-back. Geelong always leans towards its local Geelong Falcons talent — and Jaques could be in their mix later in the draft.

45. MALAKAI CHAMPION

Position: Small forward

Size: 172cm

Clubs: Subiaco/Mines Rovers

AFL player comparison: Tyson Stengle

After missing out on Lance Collard last year, the Eagles will be hopeful they can retain NGA member Champion – an explosive and exciting 170cm forward with dazzling speed and agility. Champion had a real golden patch in the middle of the season, booting seven goals from three straight WAFL league games for Subiaco. He also kicked three goals for Western Australia against Victoria Metro in the national championships. Champion finished the year back in the WAFL colts playing higher up the ground, but he’s at his most damaging best close to goal. Most likely he’ll attract a bid midway through the second night of the draft.

46. ADRIAN COLE

Position: Tall defender

Size: 194cm

Clubs: Sandringham Dragons/St Bedes-Mentone

AFL player comparison: Dougal Howard

One for Saints fans to get excited about, as Cole is part of the club’s NGA. An athletic key-position backman who’s incredibly gifted one-on-one and has a great natural leap, Cole boosted his prospects playing for Vic Metro at the national carnival this year, locking down the opposition’s most dangerous tall forwards like Jonty Faull. He then rank the 2km time trial in 6:24 — ranked equal-seventh. The Saints will match a bid on Cole, but it could come a lot earlier than Pick 46.

47. JOSH DOLAN

Position: Small forward/midfielder

Size: 177cm

Clubs: Sandringham Dragons/Beaumaris

AFL player comparison: Dylan Moore

A high half-forward who could thrive in the modern AFL landscape. Dolan was a star for the Dragons this year, kicking 8.4 and averaging 19.8 disposals, 8.6 score involvements and 5.0 marks per game. He’s a strong runner and damaging by foot.

48. HUGH BOXSHALL

Position: Midfielder

Size: 187cm

Clubs: Claremont/Swanbourne

A ball magnet who was unlucky to not get an invite to the national combine, Boxshall now looms as a national draft selection. Boxshall, who averaged 25 disposals for Claremont’s colts side this season, always seems to have extra time in congestion and is clean via hand. He was also one of WA’s most prolific performers at the national carnival, averaging 18.7 disposals, 8.0 contested possessions and 5.0 marks.

49. XAVIER IVISIC

Position: Midfielder

Size: 180cm

Clubs: Geelong Falcons/Bell Park

Found the footy at will this year, primarily due to his excellent workrate contest to contest, but also for his footy IQ. Was overlooked for a national combine invite, despite averaging 22 disposals and six score involvements for Vic Country and 25 disposals and six clearances for the Falcons. Ivisic is lightly framed, but his strong running capacity and improving inside game has him on the radar.

50. OLLIE WARBURTON

Position: Medium defender/midfielder

Size: 185cm

Clubs: Murray Bushrangers/Shepparton Swans

A classy, versatile player who showed this season he can be deployed as either a defender or midfielder. Was excellent for Vic Country at the national champs, averaging 18.5 disposals and going at 77.1 per cent efficiency by foot. Warburton was also prolific for the Murray Bushrangers, averaging 25.9 disposals.