Discussion Re-Signings, Retirements, Delistings, Trade & Drafting
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Those with a contract for 2022 and H&A games played 2012-21
210 - SHAUN ATLEY
208 - Andrew Gaff
207 - Todd Goldstein
206 - Travis Boak
205 - Luke Breust, Luke Parker 204
203 - David Mundy, Tom Hawkins
Pretty sure every non Roo on that list actually played more games than him inc finals.
I'm guilty of picking him for one of his many breakout seasons.
210 - SHAUN ATLEY
208 - Andrew Gaff
207 - Todd Goldstein
206 - Travis Boak
205 - Luke Breust, Luke Parker 204
203 - David Mundy, Tom Hawkins
Pretty sure every non Roo on that list actually played more games than him inc finals.
I'm guilty of picking him for one of his many breakout seasons.
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Delisted West Coast utility Jarrod Brander will become a GWS Giant as soon as next Wednesday.
Foxfooty.com.au understands the player and club have reached an in-principle agreement that will be made official once the next delisted free agency period commences on November 3.
It means the Giants will finally get their hands on Brander more than four years after the AFL Commission stripped the club of its Murray region recruiting zone. GWS lost its draft discount for players located in Albury, Moama, Wentworth and Deniliquin months before the 2017 draft – and Brander was from Wentworth. Charlie Spargo (Melbourne) was also impacted.
Foxfooty.com.au understands the player and club have reached an in-principle agreement that will be made official once the next delisted free agency period commences on November 3.
It means the Giants will finally get their hands on Brander more than four years after the AFL Commission stripped the club of its Murray region recruiting zone. GWS lost its draft discount for players located in Albury, Moama, Wentworth and Deniliquin months before the 2017 draft – and Brander was from Wentworth. Charlie Spargo (Melbourne) was also impacted.
AFL Draft 2021 ultimate guide: Every club’s picks, list needs and targets
What draft picks does your club have? And, more importantly, what will it do with them? We look at every team’s picks, list needs and potential targets.
Jordan Pinto and Dan Batten
17 min read
October 25, 2021 - 8:10PM
News Corp Australia Sports Newsroom
1 comments
HERALDSUN.COM.AU46:42
2021 AFL MOCK DRAFT
NOW PLAYING
Resume
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2:32
UP NEXT
The AFL Draft is a month away and recruiting teams across the country are working overtime to find your club’s next star.
North Melbourne is likely to crown South Adelaide’s Jason Horne-Francis as the No. 1 pick and bids for father-son guns Nick Daicos (Collingwood) and Sam Darcy (Western Bulldogs) won’t be far behind.
But, after that, pick swaps, bolters and sliders could shake things up.
So who will your team end up with?
Our talent watchers Jordan Pinto and Dan Batten have been studying vision and analysing the numbers to find out who might suit your club and how draft night could play out.
Catch all the ICC T20 World Cup action live & exclusive to Fox Cricket, available on Kayo. New to Kayo? Start your free trial today.
Will the Crows trade up for Finn Callaghan? Picture: Michael Klein
Adelaide
Draft picks: 4, 33, 75, 80
List needs: Speed and height in the midfield, goal-kicking small, small defender.
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Who could be available at first pick: Finn Callaghan, Josh Rachele, Josh Sinn, Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera, Ben Hobbs.
Could be in the mix after that: Mitch Knevitt, Cooper Murley, Judson Clarke, Sam Banks, Hugh Jackson, Paul Curtis.
At 189cm with speed, class a penetrating left-foot, Callaghan has all the traits of the perfect modern-day midfielder but, as it stands, pick 4 could be too late. Will the Crows move up? The talk is they’ve tried. Hobbs is likely to be snatched up in the next few selections but the skill and speed of Sinn and Wanganeen-Milera might appeal more. Then there’s the midfield x-factor of Josh Goater and the club has also been linked to the sublimely-skilled small, Rachele. Everything could change if they split the early selection for two picks later in the first round but local talents Murley and Jackson could be in the mix at 33, while the attacking traits of Clarke and Tasmanian Banks, who also has the height, would appeal, depending on who Adelaide selects on the first night. Could GWV Rebels defender Sam Breuer or Glenelg tall Oscar Adams be there late?
Josh Sinn would fit perfectly at the Lions. Picture: Quinn Rooney/AFL Photos
Brisbane
Draft picks: 14, 18, 41, 60, 76, 90
List needs: Key defensive/forward depth, running defenders
Who could be available at first pick: Josh Sinn, Josh Goater, Jacob van Rooyen, Arlo Draper
Could be in the mix after that:Darcy Wilmot, Campbell Chesser, Rhett Bazzo, Leek Alleer
Lions Academy prospects: Toby Triffett, Jack Briskey, Tahj Abberley, Saxon Crozier, Charlie Bowes
Brisbane has no glaring needs and is well-placed to snare a slider with a host of exciting prospects inside the 10-20 range. Line-breaking half-back/midfielder Sinn looms as one who could get to their first selection after an injury interrupted year, and would be a fantastic addition with Daniel Rich turning 32 next year. Running defenders Goater, Chesser, Wilmot, and interceptor Brown are others who will be around the mark for their early selections. The Lions could be exposed if key defenders Harris Andrews or Marcus Adams go down, which is why the high-leaping Alleer or WA swingman van Rooyen might appeal. Triffett, a big-bodied, 19-year-old inside midfielder, headlines Lions Academy group after impressing at VFL and in a national championships trial, but is viewed as a later draft chance. The Lions also have 2022 potential top-five selection Will Ashcroft, son of three-time premiership player Marcus, to look forward to next year. And they have already begun to stockpile points for next year, trading out pick 54 for a future third round selection last Friday.
DOSSIER: FULL DRAFT ORDER, 70 PROSPECTS PROFILED
MORE DRAFT: TOP 10 FROM EVERY COMBINE TEST, U19 STANDOUTS
Blake Howes is a tall, athletic wingman with speed. Picture: Michael Klein
Carlton
Draft picks: 25, 64, 82
List needs: Outside class, small forward, speed
Who could be available at first pick: Sam Butler, Jesse Motlop, Blake Howes, Judson Clarke
Could be in the mix after that:Paul Curtis, Eamon Wilkinson, Lewis Rayson, Harvey Harrison, Isaac Birt, Ronald Fejo Jnr
The Blues need speed and class on the outside, while list boss Nick Austin also confirmed they are after “someone who can go forward and have an impact in the front half”. Motlop, who has sublime ability through traffic and brilliant goal sense, fits that description perfectly. Butler’s added potential as an explosive, athletic midfielder, however, would be hard to pass up, and a tall, goalkicking wingman in Howes is appealing. Clarke takes the game on and is damaging forward-of-centre while prolific SA midfielder Harrison clocked the quickest 20m sprint time in the country. The Blues have also spoken to Josh Cripps, the younger brother of Patrick, a raw 199cm key-forward/ruckman who impressed at the WA combine and in the back half of the season for East Fremantle. Could they take a chance in the rookie draft? The highlight reel of NT wingman Fejo Jnr is as good as any in the pool and classy small-forward Wilkinson, who some believe is a better prospect than former South Adelaide teammate Beau McCreery, is on the radar of a number of clubs, as he was mid-season before injury.
What draft picks does your club have? And, more importantly, what will it do with them? We look at every team’s picks, list needs and potential targets.
Jordan Pinto and Dan Batten
17 min read
October 25, 2021 - 8:10PM
News Corp Australia Sports Newsroom
1 comments
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2021 AFL MOCK DRAFT
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The AFL Draft is a month away and recruiting teams across the country are working overtime to find your club’s next star.
North Melbourne is likely to crown South Adelaide’s Jason Horne-Francis as the No. 1 pick and bids for father-son guns Nick Daicos (Collingwood) and Sam Darcy (Western Bulldogs) won’t be far behind.
But, after that, pick swaps, bolters and sliders could shake things up.
So who will your team end up with?
Our talent watchers Jordan Pinto and Dan Batten have been studying vision and analysing the numbers to find out who might suit your club and how draft night could play out.
Catch all the ICC T20 World Cup action live & exclusive to Fox Cricket, available on Kayo. New to Kayo? Start your free trial today.
Will the Crows trade up for Finn Callaghan? Picture: Michael Klein
Adelaide
Draft picks: 4, 33, 75, 80
List needs: Speed and height in the midfield, goal-kicking small, small defender.
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Who could be available at first pick: Finn Callaghan, Josh Rachele, Josh Sinn, Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera, Ben Hobbs.
Could be in the mix after that: Mitch Knevitt, Cooper Murley, Judson Clarke, Sam Banks, Hugh Jackson, Paul Curtis.
At 189cm with speed, class a penetrating left-foot, Callaghan has all the traits of the perfect modern-day midfielder but, as it stands, pick 4 could be too late. Will the Crows move up? The talk is they’ve tried. Hobbs is likely to be snatched up in the next few selections but the skill and speed of Sinn and Wanganeen-Milera might appeal more. Then there’s the midfield x-factor of Josh Goater and the club has also been linked to the sublimely-skilled small, Rachele. Everything could change if they split the early selection for two picks later in the first round but local talents Murley and Jackson could be in the mix at 33, while the attacking traits of Clarke and Tasmanian Banks, who also has the height, would appeal, depending on who Adelaide selects on the first night. Could GWV Rebels defender Sam Breuer or Glenelg tall Oscar Adams be there late?
Josh Sinn would fit perfectly at the Lions. Picture: Quinn Rooney/AFL Photos
Brisbane
Draft picks: 14, 18, 41, 60, 76, 90
List needs: Key defensive/forward depth, running defenders
Who could be available at first pick: Josh Sinn, Josh Goater, Jacob van Rooyen, Arlo Draper
Could be in the mix after that:Darcy Wilmot, Campbell Chesser, Rhett Bazzo, Leek Alleer
Lions Academy prospects: Toby Triffett, Jack Briskey, Tahj Abberley, Saxon Crozier, Charlie Bowes
Brisbane has no glaring needs and is well-placed to snare a slider with a host of exciting prospects inside the 10-20 range. Line-breaking half-back/midfielder Sinn looms as one who could get to their first selection after an injury interrupted year, and would be a fantastic addition with Daniel Rich turning 32 next year. Running defenders Goater, Chesser, Wilmot, and interceptor Brown are others who will be around the mark for their early selections. The Lions could be exposed if key defenders Harris Andrews or Marcus Adams go down, which is why the high-leaping Alleer or WA swingman van Rooyen might appeal. Triffett, a big-bodied, 19-year-old inside midfielder, headlines Lions Academy group after impressing at VFL and in a national championships trial, but is viewed as a later draft chance. The Lions also have 2022 potential top-five selection Will Ashcroft, son of three-time premiership player Marcus, to look forward to next year. And they have already begun to stockpile points for next year, trading out pick 54 for a future third round selection last Friday.
DOSSIER: FULL DRAFT ORDER, 70 PROSPECTS PROFILED
MORE DRAFT: TOP 10 FROM EVERY COMBINE TEST, U19 STANDOUTS
Blake Howes is a tall, athletic wingman with speed. Picture: Michael Klein
Carlton
Draft picks: 25, 64, 82
List needs: Outside class, small forward, speed
Who could be available at first pick: Sam Butler, Jesse Motlop, Blake Howes, Judson Clarke
Could be in the mix after that:Paul Curtis, Eamon Wilkinson, Lewis Rayson, Harvey Harrison, Isaac Birt, Ronald Fejo Jnr
The Blues need speed and class on the outside, while list boss Nick Austin also confirmed they are after “someone who can go forward and have an impact in the front half”. Motlop, who has sublime ability through traffic and brilliant goal sense, fits that description perfectly. Butler’s added potential as an explosive, athletic midfielder, however, would be hard to pass up, and a tall, goalkicking wingman in Howes is appealing. Clarke takes the game on and is damaging forward-of-centre while prolific SA midfielder Harrison clocked the quickest 20m sprint time in the country. The Blues have also spoken to Josh Cripps, the younger brother of Patrick, a raw 199cm key-forward/ruckman who impressed at the WA combine and in the back half of the season for East Fremantle. Could they take a chance in the rookie draft? The highlight reel of NT wingman Fejo Jnr is as good as any in the pool and classy small-forward Wilkinson, who some believe is a better prospect than former South Adelaide teammate Beau McCreery, is on the radar of a number of clubs, as he was mid-season before injury.
MOCK DRAFT: JORDAN AND DAN TAKE TURNS TO PICK THE TOP 30
Collingwood NGA prospect Youseph Dib in action for Oakleigh Chargers. Picture: Michael Klein
Collingwood
Draft picks: 36, 38, 40, 46, 48, 55, 58, 78, 79
List needs: Key defender, key forward, ruckman, goalkicking forwards
Who could be available at first pick: Nick Daicos (matched bid)
Could be in the mix after that: Youseph Dib (NGA), Oscar Adams, Lukas Cooke, Jack Briskey, Sam Skinner
The Pies have holes across the ground but securing No.1 pick contender Daicos as a father-son will ease the pain. His expected top-three bid is set to wipe out their first four selections, but the Pies should still be able to match a bid for tough utility Dib, who caught the eye as a small forward for Collingwood’s VFL side. The club also has Bassirou Faye, an athletic ruckman from Senegal, who will sit outside the list on an international rookie scholarship. Collingwood’s key position stocks are lacking but it may struggle to find any late in the piece in a draft light on talls. Could key defender Adams and high-impact tall forward Cooke – who both stood out for South Australia in their final national carnival clash - be in the frame? Briskey, a 20-year-old key forward from the Lions Academy – trained with the Magpies during the pre-season in pursuit of a supplemental selection spot, while delisted Lion Skinner dazzled in his new role as an intercept key defender in the SANFL.
Essendon
Draft picks: 11, 51, 56, 87
List needs: Small forwards, key forward, outside speed
Who could be available at first pick: Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera, Neil Erasmus, Josh Sinn, Josh Goater, Jye Amiss
Could be in the mix after that:Corey Preston, Paul Curtis, Josh Rentsch
Essendon has the luxury of pouncing on a prospect who slides outside the top 10 – and there should be plenty of options. It seems unlikely that Amiss would slip through three selections from West Australian clubs, but the deadeye key-forward would be an ideal pick-up for the Bombers after Cale Hooker’s retirement. Rachele slid to Essendon’s pick in last week’s mock draft, and would fit in nicely, but his name appears set to be called by then. Running defender-midfielders Sinn and Goater would help add to their outside speed, Erasmus is an attractive option as an inside midfielder, while Wanganeen-Milera has great appeal as an elite kicking wingman, having a link to the club as the nephew of 1993 Brownlow medallist, Gavin Wanganeen. The Bombers have Wanganeen’s son, Tex, on offer as a father-son prospect but do not plan to nominate him. Small forward Curtis, one of the NAB League’s leading goalkickers, Preston, a dynamic flanker who can play at both ends, and Morrish medallist Rentsch, a strong key forward, could be on offer late. However, they could wait for the twin sons of Alwyn Davey - Alwyn Jnr and Jayden - next year to boost their small forward stocks as father-sons.
PHANTOM DRAFT: JAY CLARK TAKES AN EARLY LOOK AT THE TOP 20
Will the Dockers swoop on talented local Jye Amiss with their first pick? Picture: Paul Kane/Getty Images
Fremantle
Draft picks: 6, 8, 19, 61, 69, 84
List needs: Midfield class, key talls, outside run
Who could be available at first pick: Jye Amiss, Josh Rachele, Mac Andrew, Finn Callaghan
Could be in the mix after that:Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera, Neil Erasmus, Matthew Johnson, Jacob van Rooyen, Arlo Draper, Alastair Lord
East Perth forward Amiss ticks all the boxes in Fremantle’s search for a new spearhead, and he could be high on Richmond’s board at the next pick. But, still, the pure talent of Rachele and Andrew would make them think long and hard. Tall, goalkicking midfielder Erasmus would help fill the void left by Adam Cerra, and allow Nat Fyfe to play forward more, but the kicking of Wanganeen-Milera might fit better, given the club’s current mix through the middle of the ground. Van Rooyen at 19 would be a brilliant way to cap off the prized early trio of picks but will the athletic, versatile tall still be there, given he has a number of other suitors in the teens? The other thing that remains to be seen is whether the Dockers will be tempted to cash in on the interest for the first pick of the second night. There would be a long list of names, including NGA prospect Jesse Motlop and local talent Brady Hough, who would fit nicely if they did move back.
Geelong
Draft picks: 22, 30, 32, 34, 50, 91
List needs: Outside speed, key position depth, forward pressure, young midfielders
Who could be available at first pick: Tom Brown, Sam Butler, Jacob van Rooyen, Leek Alleer, Blake Howes
Could be in the mix after that:Rhett Bazzo, Leek Alleer, Mitch Knevitt, Judson Clarke, Greg Clark, Arthur Jones
The Cats have four selections in the second round and should be able to snare several promising players, while improving their age profile in a draft that bats deep. Geelong’s lack of outside speed was laid bare during the finals series and, after losing Jordan Clark during the trade period, a player like half-back Brown - who falls 16 games short of Cats father-son status from father, Paul – or athletic wingman Howes would be sound additions. The retirement of Lachie Henderson means the Cats’ tall defensive stocks are looking slim, and it’s similar up forward outside of Tom Hawkins and Jeremy Cameron. Swingman van Rooyen would address both needs if he is available at their first pick, while Alleer is more advanced as a key defender after a full year at SANFL level. With an ageing centre bounce brigade, could the Cats look to local Geelong Falcons product Mitch Knevitt? The 193cm contested ball-winner tested strongly for endurance and speed at the draft combine and can take marks up forward. Mature-ager Clark, a 24-year-old WAFL star, is a tall midfielder who can give the Cats an immediate boost, while WA youngster Jones showed his exciting attributes at the national carnival as a forward-wingman and could appeal late.
Gold Coast Academy prospect Bodhi Uwland. Picture: Supplied
Collingwood NGA prospect Youseph Dib in action for Oakleigh Chargers. Picture: Michael Klein
Collingwood
Draft picks: 36, 38, 40, 46, 48, 55, 58, 78, 79
List needs: Key defender, key forward, ruckman, goalkicking forwards
Who could be available at first pick: Nick Daicos (matched bid)
Could be in the mix after that: Youseph Dib (NGA), Oscar Adams, Lukas Cooke, Jack Briskey, Sam Skinner
The Pies have holes across the ground but securing No.1 pick contender Daicos as a father-son will ease the pain. His expected top-three bid is set to wipe out their first four selections, but the Pies should still be able to match a bid for tough utility Dib, who caught the eye as a small forward for Collingwood’s VFL side. The club also has Bassirou Faye, an athletic ruckman from Senegal, who will sit outside the list on an international rookie scholarship. Collingwood’s key position stocks are lacking but it may struggle to find any late in the piece in a draft light on talls. Could key defender Adams and high-impact tall forward Cooke – who both stood out for South Australia in their final national carnival clash - be in the frame? Briskey, a 20-year-old key forward from the Lions Academy – trained with the Magpies during the pre-season in pursuit of a supplemental selection spot, while delisted Lion Skinner dazzled in his new role as an intercept key defender in the SANFL.
Essendon
Draft picks: 11, 51, 56, 87
List needs: Small forwards, key forward, outside speed
Who could be available at first pick: Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera, Neil Erasmus, Josh Sinn, Josh Goater, Jye Amiss
Could be in the mix after that:Corey Preston, Paul Curtis, Josh Rentsch
Essendon has the luxury of pouncing on a prospect who slides outside the top 10 – and there should be plenty of options. It seems unlikely that Amiss would slip through three selections from West Australian clubs, but the deadeye key-forward would be an ideal pick-up for the Bombers after Cale Hooker’s retirement. Rachele slid to Essendon’s pick in last week’s mock draft, and would fit in nicely, but his name appears set to be called by then. Running defender-midfielders Sinn and Goater would help add to their outside speed, Erasmus is an attractive option as an inside midfielder, while Wanganeen-Milera has great appeal as an elite kicking wingman, having a link to the club as the nephew of 1993 Brownlow medallist, Gavin Wanganeen. The Bombers have Wanganeen’s son, Tex, on offer as a father-son prospect but do not plan to nominate him. Small forward Curtis, one of the NAB League’s leading goalkickers, Preston, a dynamic flanker who can play at both ends, and Morrish medallist Rentsch, a strong key forward, could be on offer late. However, they could wait for the twin sons of Alwyn Davey - Alwyn Jnr and Jayden - next year to boost their small forward stocks as father-sons.
PHANTOM DRAFT: JAY CLARK TAKES AN EARLY LOOK AT THE TOP 20
Will the Dockers swoop on talented local Jye Amiss with their first pick? Picture: Paul Kane/Getty Images
Fremantle
Draft picks: 6, 8, 19, 61, 69, 84
List needs: Midfield class, key talls, outside run
Who could be available at first pick: Jye Amiss, Josh Rachele, Mac Andrew, Finn Callaghan
Could be in the mix after that:Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera, Neil Erasmus, Matthew Johnson, Jacob van Rooyen, Arlo Draper, Alastair Lord
East Perth forward Amiss ticks all the boxes in Fremantle’s search for a new spearhead, and he could be high on Richmond’s board at the next pick. But, still, the pure talent of Rachele and Andrew would make them think long and hard. Tall, goalkicking midfielder Erasmus would help fill the void left by Adam Cerra, and allow Nat Fyfe to play forward more, but the kicking of Wanganeen-Milera might fit better, given the club’s current mix through the middle of the ground. Van Rooyen at 19 would be a brilliant way to cap off the prized early trio of picks but will the athletic, versatile tall still be there, given he has a number of other suitors in the teens? The other thing that remains to be seen is whether the Dockers will be tempted to cash in on the interest for the first pick of the second night. There would be a long list of names, including NGA prospect Jesse Motlop and local talent Brady Hough, who would fit nicely if they did move back.
Geelong
Draft picks: 22, 30, 32, 34, 50, 91
List needs: Outside speed, key position depth, forward pressure, young midfielders
Who could be available at first pick: Tom Brown, Sam Butler, Jacob van Rooyen, Leek Alleer, Blake Howes
Could be in the mix after that:Rhett Bazzo, Leek Alleer, Mitch Knevitt, Judson Clarke, Greg Clark, Arthur Jones
The Cats have four selections in the second round and should be able to snare several promising players, while improving their age profile in a draft that bats deep. Geelong’s lack of outside speed was laid bare during the finals series and, after losing Jordan Clark during the trade period, a player like half-back Brown - who falls 16 games short of Cats father-son status from father, Paul – or athletic wingman Howes would be sound additions. The retirement of Lachie Henderson means the Cats’ tall defensive stocks are looking slim, and it’s similar up forward outside of Tom Hawkins and Jeremy Cameron. Swingman van Rooyen would address both needs if he is available at their first pick, while Alleer is more advanced as a key defender after a full year at SANFL level. With an ageing centre bounce brigade, could the Cats look to local Geelong Falcons product Mitch Knevitt? The 193cm contested ball-winner tested strongly for endurance and speed at the draft combine and can take marks up forward. Mature-ager Clark, a 24-year-old WAFL star, is a tall midfielder who can give the Cats an immediate boost, while WA youngster Jones showed his exciting attributes at the national carnival as a forward-wingman and could appeal late.
Gold Coast Academy prospect Bodhi Uwland. Picture: Supplied
Gold Coast
Draft picks: 3
List needs: Key defender, ready-made players, rebounding class
Who could be available at first pick: Finn Callaghan, Josh Gibcus, Ben Hobbs, Josh Ward, Mac Andrew
Could be in the mix after that:Ned Stevens (GC Academy), Austin Harris (GC Academy), Bodhi Uwland (GC Academy), Will Bella (GC Academy)
Like the Crows, the Suns could come hard for the Giants’ pick 2 and Callaghan on draft night but, if they select at 3, the 195cm Gibcus is the ideal fit to shore up the future of the spine. His height, elite vertical leap and long arms made him look unbeatable in the air at times in the NAB League. The potential of Andrew will appeal to every club in the top 10, while Hobbs or Ward would provide further leadership. Under the AFL’s concession package, this is the final year the Suns will be able to pre-list their Academy players ahead of the draft and the highly rated trio of Ned Stevens (versatile ruck-forward), Austin Harris (skilful small-forward) and Bodhi Uwland (Tough, composed defender-midfielder) tick plenty of boxes.
GWS
Draft picks: 2, 13, 53, 54, 71, 89
List needs: Rucks, key forwards, key defenders, small forwards
Who could be available at first pick: Finn Callaghan, Mac Andrew, Josh Gibcus, Josh Rachele
Could be in the mix after that: Tyler Sonsie, Jacob van Rooyen, Josh Fahey (Giants Academy), Josh Green (Giants Academy)
GWS can change the face of the draft with the ability to secure any player outside of Jason Horne-Francis, who is expected to have his name called by North Melbourne, and father-son prodigies Nick Daicos and Sam Darcy – which they may well bid on. The Giants are overflowing with midfielders but Callaghan offers something different to their current mix and would be worthy of the second ‘live’ pick, with exciting ruckman Andrew and intercept key defender Gibcus other prospects linked to their first choice. Gibcus and Andrew would both help satisfy clear list needs. However, with the Giants open to offers for the prized pick, could the Giants slide down the order and still nab either of these talented talls? As shown in News Corp’s recent mock draft, numerous clubs inside the top 10 are not in need of a developing ruckman. The Giants’ second pick should net them another quality player, with the mid-first round range boasting high-end talent. Meanwhile, the club will have enough points to snap up Giants Academy rebounding defender Fahey - who was named as the AFL Academy’s best afield against Geelong’s VFL side in April - even if a bid comes inside the top 30.
Josh Ward is one of the standout midfield prospects in the draft pool. Picture: Michael Klein
Hawthorn
Draft picks: 5, 21, 24, 59, 65, 81
List needs: Young midfielders, midfield class, goalkicking small forwards, key forward depth
Who could be available at first pick: Finn Callaghan, Ben Hobbs, Josh Ward, Josh Rachele
Could be in the mix after that:Sam Butler, Jesse Motlop, Zac Taylor, Jack Williams, Kai Lohmann, Jake Soligo
Hawthorn has the opportunity to add a future midfield star to its ranks at five, and game-breaking left-footer Callaghan would tick all the boxes. However, prolific ball-winners Hobbs and Ward appear the more likely options to be remaining on the board, both presenting as bankable options. Hawthorn’s ageing midfield features several similar ball-hunters, which is why the class and elite kick of Taylor would be a nice fit. A small forward could also be on the Hawks’ wishlist with Luke Breust in the twilight of his career, and the powerful Rachele looms as the best in the pool with the potential to be a high-impact midfielder. Crafty small forward Motlop, the son of Port Adelaide and North Melbourne player Daniel, and speedy pressure forward-midfielder Butler, the brother of St Kilda goalsneak Dan, might be available at their picks in the 20s. Alternatively, the speed and aerial ability of Lohmann, an eye-catching 185cm forward, could add to Hawks’ forward mix, while the creativity and efficiency of classy midfielder Soligo would also be promising addition if available at their later selections.
Melbourne
Draft picks: 17, 37, 49, 57, 94
List needs: Outside run, key-forward depth
Who could be available at first pick: Campbell Chesser, Mitch Owens, Tyler Sonsie, Jacob van Rooyen, Jack Williams, Blake Howes
Could be in the mix after that: Cooper Murley, Judson Clarke, Sam Banks, Jack Avery, Morgan Ferres, Jordan Lukac, Josh Rentsch
The premier has a well-balanced list with stars on every line so, if they don’t look to package their first two selections for one higher up the order, the Demons might just wait to see who slides. Chesser’s run-and-carry and Sonsie’s midfield class will appeal, while the athletic Howes would give Simon Goodwin’s side a new look on the wing. As would bolter Owens, who has grown 15cm over the past two years. And calling his name out inside the top 20 means St Kilda will not be able to match the bid for the NGA prospect. WA tall Williams would be a terrific selection if he were to slide outside of the top 30, while Murley and Clarke would add another layer to Melbourne’s ball-movement. Ferres is a mid-sized forward with strong hands, who is often a step ahead of opposition defenders with his running patterns. Rentsch, on the other hand, is a powerful, 197cm forward, who tied for this year’s Morrish Medal in the NAB League, if the Demons still need to add to their key-forward stocks late.
Draft picks: 3
List needs: Key defender, ready-made players, rebounding class
Who could be available at first pick: Finn Callaghan, Josh Gibcus, Ben Hobbs, Josh Ward, Mac Andrew
Could be in the mix after that:Ned Stevens (GC Academy), Austin Harris (GC Academy), Bodhi Uwland (GC Academy), Will Bella (GC Academy)
Like the Crows, the Suns could come hard for the Giants’ pick 2 and Callaghan on draft night but, if they select at 3, the 195cm Gibcus is the ideal fit to shore up the future of the spine. His height, elite vertical leap and long arms made him look unbeatable in the air at times in the NAB League. The potential of Andrew will appeal to every club in the top 10, while Hobbs or Ward would provide further leadership. Under the AFL’s concession package, this is the final year the Suns will be able to pre-list their Academy players ahead of the draft and the highly rated trio of Ned Stevens (versatile ruck-forward), Austin Harris (skilful small-forward) and Bodhi Uwland (Tough, composed defender-midfielder) tick plenty of boxes.
GWS
Draft picks: 2, 13, 53, 54, 71, 89
List needs: Rucks, key forwards, key defenders, small forwards
Who could be available at first pick: Finn Callaghan, Mac Andrew, Josh Gibcus, Josh Rachele
Could be in the mix after that: Tyler Sonsie, Jacob van Rooyen, Josh Fahey (Giants Academy), Josh Green (Giants Academy)
GWS can change the face of the draft with the ability to secure any player outside of Jason Horne-Francis, who is expected to have his name called by North Melbourne, and father-son prodigies Nick Daicos and Sam Darcy – which they may well bid on. The Giants are overflowing with midfielders but Callaghan offers something different to their current mix and would be worthy of the second ‘live’ pick, with exciting ruckman Andrew and intercept key defender Gibcus other prospects linked to their first choice. Gibcus and Andrew would both help satisfy clear list needs. However, with the Giants open to offers for the prized pick, could the Giants slide down the order and still nab either of these talented talls? As shown in News Corp’s recent mock draft, numerous clubs inside the top 10 are not in need of a developing ruckman. The Giants’ second pick should net them another quality player, with the mid-first round range boasting high-end talent. Meanwhile, the club will have enough points to snap up Giants Academy rebounding defender Fahey - who was named as the AFL Academy’s best afield against Geelong’s VFL side in April - even if a bid comes inside the top 30.
Josh Ward is one of the standout midfield prospects in the draft pool. Picture: Michael Klein
Hawthorn
Draft picks: 5, 21, 24, 59, 65, 81
List needs: Young midfielders, midfield class, goalkicking small forwards, key forward depth
Who could be available at first pick: Finn Callaghan, Ben Hobbs, Josh Ward, Josh Rachele
Could be in the mix after that:Sam Butler, Jesse Motlop, Zac Taylor, Jack Williams, Kai Lohmann, Jake Soligo
Hawthorn has the opportunity to add a future midfield star to its ranks at five, and game-breaking left-footer Callaghan would tick all the boxes. However, prolific ball-winners Hobbs and Ward appear the more likely options to be remaining on the board, both presenting as bankable options. Hawthorn’s ageing midfield features several similar ball-hunters, which is why the class and elite kick of Taylor would be a nice fit. A small forward could also be on the Hawks’ wishlist with Luke Breust in the twilight of his career, and the powerful Rachele looms as the best in the pool with the potential to be a high-impact midfielder. Crafty small forward Motlop, the son of Port Adelaide and North Melbourne player Daniel, and speedy pressure forward-midfielder Butler, the brother of St Kilda goalsneak Dan, might be available at their picks in the 20s. Alternatively, the speed and aerial ability of Lohmann, an eye-catching 185cm forward, could add to Hawks’ forward mix, while the creativity and efficiency of classy midfielder Soligo would also be promising addition if available at their later selections.
Melbourne
Draft picks: 17, 37, 49, 57, 94
List needs: Outside run, key-forward depth
Who could be available at first pick: Campbell Chesser, Mitch Owens, Tyler Sonsie, Jacob van Rooyen, Jack Williams, Blake Howes
Could be in the mix after that: Cooper Murley, Judson Clarke, Sam Banks, Jack Avery, Morgan Ferres, Jordan Lukac, Josh Rentsch
The premier has a well-balanced list with stars on every line so, if they don’t look to package their first two selections for one higher up the order, the Demons might just wait to see who slides. Chesser’s run-and-carry and Sonsie’s midfield class will appeal, while the athletic Howes would give Simon Goodwin’s side a new look on the wing. As would bolter Owens, who has grown 15cm over the past two years. And calling his name out inside the top 20 means St Kilda will not be able to match the bid for the NGA prospect. WA tall Williams would be a terrific selection if he were to slide outside of the top 30, while Murley and Clarke would add another layer to Melbourne’s ball-movement. Ferres is a mid-sized forward with strong hands, who is often a step ahead of opposition defenders with his running patterns. Rentsch, on the other hand, is a powerful, 197cm forward, who tied for this year’s Morrish Medal in the NAB League, if the Demons still need to add to their key-forward stocks late.
North Melbourne
Draft picks: 1, 20, 42, 47, 72, 77
List needs: Key talls, versatile defender, small forward
Who could be available at first pick: Jason Horne-Francis
Could be in the mix after that: Tom Brown, Darcy Wilmot, Jacob van Rooyen, Leek Alleer, Jack Williams, Lewis Rayson, Kai Lohmann, Charlie Dean
North Melbourne is likely to crown Horne-Francis the No. 1 pick in November’s draft and the complete midfield prospect should have an immediate impact next season. That’s done, but the Roos’ next call early in the second round is more interesting. Brown and Wilmot offer dash and drive, combined with strong defensive attributes, but pick 20 is where they could pounce on their next star key-position prospect. Central District bolter, Alleer, who broke the running vertical jump record at the combine, starred in the SANFL as an intercept defender in the SANFL this year and has, arguably, the biggest upside of any tall in the draft pool. And he might not be there at 42, given the surging interest in the 20-year-old. Van Rooyen would also be in the mix at the selection, while, later in the draft, speedy forward Lohmann, who is great in the air and on the ground, would add another lay to the Roos’ forward mix in time.
Port Adelaide
Draft picks: 12, 63, 73, 74, 92
List needs: Midfield depth and speed, small forward
Who could be available at first pick: Josh Rachele, Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera, Arlo Draper, Matty Roberts, Josh Goater, Josh Sinn, Mitch Knevitt
Could be in the mix after that: Jase Burgoyne, Lachlan Rankin, Oscar Adams, Hugh Stagg, Sam Skinner
Given Robbie Gray is in the twilight of his career, and the club’s want to get Zak Butters and Connor Rozee in the midfield on a regular basis, the talented Rachele would be hard to pass up in the unlikely even he was still there at Port’s first pick. But at 12 - the selection they got from Sydney in the Pete Ladhams deal - the Power are more likely to bolster their midfield. The ready-made Roberts would do so immediately, while the unrivalled foot skills of Wanganeen-Milera would complement the inside stocks perfectly. Sinn, with his speed, and Goater, with his height and explosiveness, would add another dimension altogether – albeit down the track. We’ll find out soon whether Burgoyne, the son of premiership star Peter, will nominate as a father-son prospect but the Power have a stack of late picks to match a potential bid. Otherwise, locals Stagg, Adams and Harvey Harrison could appeal and they have shown some interest in former Lion Skinner.
Ben Hobbs appears a great fit for the Richmond midfield. Picture: Michael Willson/AFL Photos
Richmond
Draft picks: 7, 15, 26, 27, 28, 83
List needs: Inside midfielders, key forwards, outside speed, key defensive depth
Who could be available at first pick: Josh Rachele, Josh Ward, Ben Hobbs, Jye Amiss
Could be in the mix after that: Josh Goater, Josh Sinn, Zac Taylor, Angus Sheldrick, Jack Williams, Blake Howes, Greg Clark
Richmond is crying out for inside midfielders after being smashed in the clinches last season, ranking dead last for stoppage-clearance differential and 16th for contested-possession differential. Ball-winning machine Hobbs would suit the Tigers’ needs perfectly, but will he still be on the board at seven (nine after bids)? Ward, an ultra-consistent midfielder likened to Zach Merrett, could also impact right away and may be on offer, while Rachele has the match-winning traits as a forward-mid to be a superb option for the Tigers. Amiss is worth considering after the loss of Callum Coleman-Jones and Mabior Chol during the trade and free agency period. With five picks inside the top 30, Richmond could look to package selections to move up the board, but expect them to be sitting pretty either way with their strong hand. Line-breaking options Goater or Sinn may be available at the Tigers’ second pick, while draft bolter Sheldrick, a tough-as-nails 179cm midfielder, classy ball-user Taylor, roaming key forward Williams and wingman Howes look to be around the mark for their three picks in the 20s. With 2022 looming as this group’s last shot at a premiership, could the Tigers take a punt on a mature-age midfielder? Former top-10 pick Nathan Freeman – who they showed interest in ahead of this year’s mid-season draft – or the 191cm Clark, the winner of the best-on-ground medal in Subiaco’s WAFL grand final, present as plug-in-and-play options.
St Kilda
Draft picks: 9, 62, 66, 67, 85
List needs: Key defenders, midfield polish, goalkicking small forwards, key forward depth
Who could be available at first pick: Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera, Neil Erasmus, Matthew Johnson
Could be in the mix after that: Marcus Windhager (NGA), Michito Owens (NGA), Jack Peris (NGA)
St Kilda has two Next Generation Academy prospects, Windhager and Owens, who should be taken inside the top 40, despite limited exposure for varying reasons. But Saints fans will be crossing their fingers and toes that the pair aren’t snaffled by a rival club inside the top 20, with NGA Academy bids unprotected in this draft range. Powerful and versatile midfielder-forward Windhager appeared the most likely to be taken in the first round but he has suffered a recent back injury, while Owens came with a rush mid-year and has more growth left in him as a 190cm midfielder. Matched bids could force the Saints into a draft points deficit with their limited picks, but it is unlikely to be significant. The elite footskills of Wanganeen-Milera would address a glaring need at the club’s first pick, a side short of exponents of the ‘money’ kick and midfield polish. The wingman has some admirers in the top 10 and some believe he will be the second South Australian taken on draft night. It might be too early for the Saints to consider a key defender, but Erasmus and Johnson are tall midfielders who could be on the offer at their first selection. The Saints also have the lightning-quick Peris, the son of Commonwealth Games gold medallist sprinter Nova, as an NGA prospect, who shapes as a late-rookie chance.
Campbell Chesser is a damaging prospect on the outside. Picture: Michael Willson/AFL Photos
Sydney
Draft picks: 16, 31, 39, 70, 88
List needs: Key defenders, ball-winning midfielders, key forward depth, defensive run
Who could be available at first pick: Jacob van Rooyen, Josh Sinn, Tyler Sonsie, Campbell Chesser
Could be in the mix after that: Leek Alleer, Rhett Bazzo, Angus Sheldrick, Mitch Knevitt, Sam Banks, Alastair Lord, Shay Linke
Sydney is low on key defenders and van Rooyen, Alleer and Bazzo shape as possible options for their first and second-round selections. Van Rooyen looks to be the one that could be off the board the earliest of this trio, with Bazzo and Alleer a chance to sneak outside the top 30. A first-round slider may be too difficult to resist, with prospects like Sinn and Sonsie a chance of being available. Chesser or Sinn would help fill the void left by new Crow Jordan Dawson with their penetrating kicks and speed. Alternatively, Tasmanian defensive distributor Banks presents as a value pick in the second half of the draft. With veteran Josh P. Kennedy remaining one of Sydney’s prime movers, some inside grunt could be found in the likes of Sheldrick or Knevitt with their second pick. Could South Australian Linke, a 190cm midfielder-forward who shone at stages during the national championships, be on their radar as a later selection?
season in the WAFL. Raak (NGA) and Macpherson (father-son) were also overlooked by the Bulldogs in 2020 but trained with the club in January.
Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera is the best kick in the draft. Picture: Paul Kane/Getty Images
Draft picks: 1, 20, 42, 47, 72, 77
List needs: Key talls, versatile defender, small forward
Who could be available at first pick: Jason Horne-Francis
Could be in the mix after that: Tom Brown, Darcy Wilmot, Jacob van Rooyen, Leek Alleer, Jack Williams, Lewis Rayson, Kai Lohmann, Charlie Dean
North Melbourne is likely to crown Horne-Francis the No. 1 pick in November’s draft and the complete midfield prospect should have an immediate impact next season. That’s done, but the Roos’ next call early in the second round is more interesting. Brown and Wilmot offer dash and drive, combined with strong defensive attributes, but pick 20 is where they could pounce on their next star key-position prospect. Central District bolter, Alleer, who broke the running vertical jump record at the combine, starred in the SANFL as an intercept defender in the SANFL this year and has, arguably, the biggest upside of any tall in the draft pool. And he might not be there at 42, given the surging interest in the 20-year-old. Van Rooyen would also be in the mix at the selection, while, later in the draft, speedy forward Lohmann, who is great in the air and on the ground, would add another lay to the Roos’ forward mix in time.
Port Adelaide
Draft picks: 12, 63, 73, 74, 92
List needs: Midfield depth and speed, small forward
Who could be available at first pick: Josh Rachele, Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera, Arlo Draper, Matty Roberts, Josh Goater, Josh Sinn, Mitch Knevitt
Could be in the mix after that: Jase Burgoyne, Lachlan Rankin, Oscar Adams, Hugh Stagg, Sam Skinner
Given Robbie Gray is in the twilight of his career, and the club’s want to get Zak Butters and Connor Rozee in the midfield on a regular basis, the talented Rachele would be hard to pass up in the unlikely even he was still there at Port’s first pick. But at 12 - the selection they got from Sydney in the Pete Ladhams deal - the Power are more likely to bolster their midfield. The ready-made Roberts would do so immediately, while the unrivalled foot skills of Wanganeen-Milera would complement the inside stocks perfectly. Sinn, with his speed, and Goater, with his height and explosiveness, would add another dimension altogether – albeit down the track. We’ll find out soon whether Burgoyne, the son of premiership star Peter, will nominate as a father-son prospect but the Power have a stack of late picks to match a potential bid. Otherwise, locals Stagg, Adams and Harvey Harrison could appeal and they have shown some interest in former Lion Skinner.
Ben Hobbs appears a great fit for the Richmond midfield. Picture: Michael Willson/AFL Photos
Richmond
Draft picks: 7, 15, 26, 27, 28, 83
List needs: Inside midfielders, key forwards, outside speed, key defensive depth
Who could be available at first pick: Josh Rachele, Josh Ward, Ben Hobbs, Jye Amiss
Could be in the mix after that: Josh Goater, Josh Sinn, Zac Taylor, Angus Sheldrick, Jack Williams, Blake Howes, Greg Clark
Richmond is crying out for inside midfielders after being smashed in the clinches last season, ranking dead last for stoppage-clearance differential and 16th for contested-possession differential. Ball-winning machine Hobbs would suit the Tigers’ needs perfectly, but will he still be on the board at seven (nine after bids)? Ward, an ultra-consistent midfielder likened to Zach Merrett, could also impact right away and may be on offer, while Rachele has the match-winning traits as a forward-mid to be a superb option for the Tigers. Amiss is worth considering after the loss of Callum Coleman-Jones and Mabior Chol during the trade and free agency period. With five picks inside the top 30, Richmond could look to package selections to move up the board, but expect them to be sitting pretty either way with their strong hand. Line-breaking options Goater or Sinn may be available at the Tigers’ second pick, while draft bolter Sheldrick, a tough-as-nails 179cm midfielder, classy ball-user Taylor, roaming key forward Williams and wingman Howes look to be around the mark for their three picks in the 20s. With 2022 looming as this group’s last shot at a premiership, could the Tigers take a punt on a mature-age midfielder? Former top-10 pick Nathan Freeman – who they showed interest in ahead of this year’s mid-season draft – or the 191cm Clark, the winner of the best-on-ground medal in Subiaco’s WAFL grand final, present as plug-in-and-play options.
St Kilda
Draft picks: 9, 62, 66, 67, 85
List needs: Key defenders, midfield polish, goalkicking small forwards, key forward depth
Who could be available at first pick: Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera, Neil Erasmus, Matthew Johnson
Could be in the mix after that: Marcus Windhager (NGA), Michito Owens (NGA), Jack Peris (NGA)
St Kilda has two Next Generation Academy prospects, Windhager and Owens, who should be taken inside the top 40, despite limited exposure for varying reasons. But Saints fans will be crossing their fingers and toes that the pair aren’t snaffled by a rival club inside the top 20, with NGA Academy bids unprotected in this draft range. Powerful and versatile midfielder-forward Windhager appeared the most likely to be taken in the first round but he has suffered a recent back injury, while Owens came with a rush mid-year and has more growth left in him as a 190cm midfielder. Matched bids could force the Saints into a draft points deficit with their limited picks, but it is unlikely to be significant. The elite footskills of Wanganeen-Milera would address a glaring need at the club’s first pick, a side short of exponents of the ‘money’ kick and midfield polish. The wingman has some admirers in the top 10 and some believe he will be the second South Australian taken on draft night. It might be too early for the Saints to consider a key defender, but Erasmus and Johnson are tall midfielders who could be on the offer at their first selection. The Saints also have the lightning-quick Peris, the son of Commonwealth Games gold medallist sprinter Nova, as an NGA prospect, who shapes as a late-rookie chance.
Campbell Chesser is a damaging prospect on the outside. Picture: Michael Willson/AFL Photos
Sydney
Draft picks: 16, 31, 39, 70, 88
List needs: Key defenders, ball-winning midfielders, key forward depth, defensive run
Who could be available at first pick: Jacob van Rooyen, Josh Sinn, Tyler Sonsie, Campbell Chesser
Could be in the mix after that: Leek Alleer, Rhett Bazzo, Angus Sheldrick, Mitch Knevitt, Sam Banks, Alastair Lord, Shay Linke
Sydney is low on key defenders and van Rooyen, Alleer and Bazzo shape as possible options for their first and second-round selections. Van Rooyen looks to be the one that could be off the board the earliest of this trio, with Bazzo and Alleer a chance to sneak outside the top 30. A first-round slider may be too difficult to resist, with prospects like Sinn and Sonsie a chance of being available. Chesser or Sinn would help fill the void left by new Crow Jordan Dawson with their penetrating kicks and speed. Alternatively, Tasmanian defensive distributor Banks presents as a value pick in the second half of the draft. With veteran Josh P. Kennedy remaining one of Sydney’s prime movers, some inside grunt could be found in the likes of Sheldrick or Knevitt with their second pick. Could South Australian Linke, a 190cm midfielder-forward who shone at stages during the national championships, be on their radar as a later selection?
season in the WAFL. Raak (NGA) and Macpherson (father-son) were also overlooked by the Bulldogs in 2020 but trained with the club in January.
Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera is the best kick in the draft. Picture: Paul Kane/Getty Images
Western Bulldogs
Draft picks: 23, 43, 44, 45, 52, 93
List needs: Key defender, ruckman
Who could be available at first pick: Sam Darcy
Could be in the mix after that: Charlie Dean, Sam Skinner, Cody Raak, Ewan Macpherson, Jack Avery, Hugh Stagg
It’s all about Darcy for the Bulldogs and rightly so. The son of club great Luke moves incredibly well for a 204cm big man, but what he can do in the air is even more impressive – at either end, too. With pick 23 set to be eaten up by the Darcy bid, rival clubs are aware the Bulldogs would be open to trading it, in order to strengthen its hand at the back-end this year, or next. The VFL’s Fothergill-Round-Mitchell Medallist, Dean, could fill an immediate need in defence late in the draft, as could Skinner, with the former Lion starring as an intercept defender for South Adelaide in the SANFL this year. Perth’s Jack Avery was overlooked in last year’s draft but he’s another prospect capable of having instant impact across half-back, following a standout season in the WAFL. Raak (NGA) and Macpherson (father-son) were also overlooked by the Bulldogs in 2020 but trained with the club in January.
Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera is the best kick in the draft. Picture: Paul Kane/Getty Images
West Coast
Draft picks: 10, 29, 35, 68, 86
List needs: Outside run, midfield class, young talls
Who could be available at first pick: Neil Erasmus, Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera, Matthew Johnson, Josh Sinn, Josh Goater
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Could be in the mix after that: Jack Williams, Blake Howes, Jesse Motlop, Judson Clarke, Leek Alleer, Alastair Lord, Brady Hough, Kai Lohmann
Despite some concern over his kicking, it would be hard for the Eagles to pass up talented WA midfielder Erasmus, who transitioned into the midfield, adding genuine ball-winning ability – at the contest and away from it – to his list of elite traits this year. Johnson is another local midfield prospect, while Wanganeen-Milera would give the club some much-needed outside class. The attacking flair of Howes and Clarke would appeal in the second round but could West Coast pinch Motlop if he got through to 29? The rapid rise of goalkicking midfielder Hough, who was playing country footy not long ago, has also caught the Eagles’ attention.
Draft picks: 23, 43, 44, 45, 52, 93
List needs: Key defender, ruckman
Who could be available at first pick: Sam Darcy
Could be in the mix after that: Charlie Dean, Sam Skinner, Cody Raak, Ewan Macpherson, Jack Avery, Hugh Stagg
It’s all about Darcy for the Bulldogs and rightly so. The son of club great Luke moves incredibly well for a 204cm big man, but what he can do in the air is even more impressive – at either end, too. With pick 23 set to be eaten up by the Darcy bid, rival clubs are aware the Bulldogs would be open to trading it, in order to strengthen its hand at the back-end this year, or next. The VFL’s Fothergill-Round-Mitchell Medallist, Dean, could fill an immediate need in defence late in the draft, as could Skinner, with the former Lion starring as an intercept defender for South Adelaide in the SANFL this year. Perth’s Jack Avery was overlooked in last year’s draft but he’s another prospect capable of having instant impact across half-back, following a standout season in the WAFL. Raak (NGA) and Macpherson (father-son) were also overlooked by the Bulldogs in 2020 but trained with the club in January.
Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera is the best kick in the draft. Picture: Paul Kane/Getty Images
West Coast
Draft picks: 10, 29, 35, 68, 86
List needs: Outside run, midfield class, young talls
Who could be available at first pick: Neil Erasmus, Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera, Matthew Johnson, Josh Sinn, Josh Goater
More Coverage
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Could be in the mix after that: Jack Williams, Blake Howes, Jesse Motlop, Judson Clarke, Leek Alleer, Alastair Lord, Brady Hough, Kai Lohmann
Despite some concern over his kicking, it would be hard for the Eagles to pass up talented WA midfielder Erasmus, who transitioned into the midfield, adding genuine ball-winning ability – at the contest and away from it – to his list of elite traits this year. Johnson is another local midfield prospect, while Wanganeen-Milera would give the club some much-needed outside class. The attacking flair of Howes and Clarke would appeal in the second round but could West Coast pinch Motlop if he got through to 29? The rapid rise of goalkicking midfielder Hough, who was playing country footy not long ago, has also caught the Eagles’ attention.
FREMANTLE has delisted Connor Blakely and Mitch Crowden, but is committed to re-select the pair in November's NAB AFL Rookie Draft.
The move now allows the Dockers to pick two extra players in the NAB AFL Draft, where they hold selections 6, 8, 19, 61 and 69.
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Crowden's dummy sell fools Pies in wonder goal
Mitchel Crowden has kicked a brilliant goal thanks to this clever dummy sell
Published on Jun 26, 2021, 4:27pm
Dockers executive general manager of football Peter Bell praised the duo for their selflessness in agreeing to the move.
"In order to give us flexibility as we approach the draft, the tough decision to delist Mitch Crowden and Connor Blakely was made in consultation with both of the players and their management groups," Bell said.
"With the delisting comes our commitment to re-rookie them both in the Rookie Draft immediately after the National Draft.
WHO'S CALLED IT QUITS 2021's retirements and delistings
"It is important to note that whether players are on the primary list or the rookie list, it makes no difference to their chances of selection.
"In recent times, we’ve seen both Lachie Schultz and Ethan Hughes playing a lot of footy from the rookie list, as well as earn themselves multi-year contractual extensions. This move is primarily for administration reasons and both players have been fantastic in allowing the club this flexibility."
The move now allows the Dockers to pick two extra players in the NAB AFL Draft, where they hold selections 6, 8, 19, 61 and 69.
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01:20MINS
Crowden's dummy sell fools Pies in wonder goal
Mitchel Crowden has kicked a brilliant goal thanks to this clever dummy sell
Published on Jun 26, 2021, 4:27pm
Dockers executive general manager of football Peter Bell praised the duo for their selflessness in agreeing to the move.
"In order to give us flexibility as we approach the draft, the tough decision to delist Mitch Crowden and Connor Blakely was made in consultation with both of the players and their management groups," Bell said.
"With the delisting comes our commitment to re-rookie them both in the Rookie Draft immediately after the National Draft.
WHO'S CALLED IT QUITS 2021's retirements and delistings
"It is important to note that whether players are on the primary list or the rookie list, it makes no difference to their chances of selection.
"In recent times, we’ve seen both Lachie Schultz and Ethan Hughes playing a lot of footy from the rookie list, as well as earn themselves multi-year contractual extensions. This move is primarily for administration reasons and both players have been fantastic in allowing the club this flexibility."
GOLD Coast has delisted rugged journeyman Jacob Townsend but says it will consider re-drafting him as a rookie.
In addition to Townsend, the Suns also delisted Irish Category B rookie Luke Towey ahead of Friday's first list lodgement deadline.
Townsend was picked up by Gold Coast prior to the 2021 season, making the Suns his fourth club following stints with Greater Western Sydney, Richmond and Essendon.
WHO'S CALLED IT QUITS 2021's retirements and delistings
He played two games last season, kicking three goals, including a crucial two-goal cameo in a victory over Carlton in round 21.
Townsend, 28, is perhaps best remembered for his role in the Tigers' drought-breaking 2017 premiership, where he came into their team in round 22 and kicked 16 goals in the ensuing five matches on the way to the flag.
Richmond's Jacob Townsend celebrates a goal against Adelaide in the 2017 Grand Final. Picture: AFL Photos
A Suns statement said they would "consider re-drafting him through the NAB AFL Rookie Draft" if he is not snapped up as a delisted free agent.
Towey spent two years at Carrara after impressing with his speed and agility at the AFL Europe Combine.
"It hasn't been an easy two seasons of AFL football, particularly for someone brand new to learning the game like Luke has," general manager of player talent and strategy Craig Cameron said.
"We want to commend him for his attitude and dedication to the Suns over the last two years and wish him all the best for what lies ahead."
Gold Coast's Luke Towey at training in May, 2021. Picture: AFL Photos
In addition to Townsend, the Suns also delisted Irish Category B rookie Luke Towey ahead of Friday's first list lodgement deadline.
Townsend was picked up by Gold Coast prior to the 2021 season, making the Suns his fourth club following stints with Greater Western Sydney, Richmond and Essendon.
WHO'S CALLED IT QUITS 2021's retirements and delistings
He played two games last season, kicking three goals, including a crucial two-goal cameo in a victory over Carlton in round 21.
Townsend, 28, is perhaps best remembered for his role in the Tigers' drought-breaking 2017 premiership, where he came into their team in round 22 and kicked 16 goals in the ensuing five matches on the way to the flag.
Richmond's Jacob Townsend celebrates a goal against Adelaide in the 2017 Grand Final. Picture: AFL Photos
A Suns statement said they would "consider re-drafting him through the NAB AFL Rookie Draft" if he is not snapped up as a delisted free agent.
Towey spent two years at Carrara after impressing with his speed and agility at the AFL Europe Combine.
"It hasn't been an easy two seasons of AFL football, particularly for someone brand new to learning the game like Luke has," general manager of player talent and strategy Craig Cameron said.
"We want to commend him for his attitude and dedication to the Suns over the last two years and wish him all the best for what lies ahead."
Gold Coast's Luke Towey at training in May, 2021. Picture: AFL Photos