AFL Draft 2022

[Andyy]

Aren’t the lions lacking in points? Pick 1 is 3000, you get a father son discount, can’t remember how much it is but even if it’s 20% that’ll still cost them 2400 which leaves them with 41 points to get their second father son player projected to go late first round. Must be hoping gws don’t bid on Ashcroft at 1 but even then I rekn they’ll struggle. Must be going into deficit next season.

They will go into point deficit which will push back their picks in 2023

[yandb]

"The draft board for us and maybe some other interstate clubs is not the same draft board [as Vic clubs]."

Jason McCartney on the reality non-Vic clubs face at the draft.


https://twitter.com/FootyonNine/status/1580021350067949569

And yet they traded out a NSW player in Hopper and kept the interstate players.

[pmac21]

Can't wait until the phantom drafts to see who we getting.

[camboon]

Me too , Is JON still getting a kick somewhere

[one-eyed]

Kevin Sheehan’s 2022 NAB AFL Draft Top Prospects – Tall Forwards/Rucks

https://www.afl.com.au/news/856829/kevin-sheehan-s-2022-nab-afl-draft-top-prospects-tall-forwards-rucks

[camboon]

Thanks for that, should be able to get a developing key forward from that lot,

[Andyy]

Thanks for that, should be able to get a developing key forward from that lot,

Agreed, just take two of whoever is left.

Obviously they'd need to be sub 200cm to be a good forward haha.

Also that Nicholas Madden wtf he's 18yo and 204/112 already. Fmd

[Tiger Khosh]

Ashcroft won't get bid on by GWS.  They are taking Cadman at no.1

Then they’ll be making the same mistake as the kangas not selecting the obvious no.1 draft pick just to win some brownie points with the player they’ll end up with. All the while helping out the lions by decreasing the amount of the points they’ll have to spend.

[one-eyed]

Latest word: Every draft prospect your club could snare

HeraldSun
16 October 2022

What does your club need at the draft, and who will be around the mark at their picks?

Our ultimate guide looks at what every list needs and provides the latest intel.

RICHMOND​

Draft picks: 53, 63

List needs: Key forward

Who could be available at first pick: Unknown

Who’s in the mix after that: Unknown

The Tigers had a top draft hand this year before the trade period, but gave a lot away picks 12, 19 and 31 to secure Greater Western Sydney midfielders Tim Tarranto and Jacob Hopper. That means they are left with only a couple of late speculative selections at this stage. They can afford that, though, after snaring five top-30 picks in last year’s draft. Not losing anyone in the trade period will also help keep Richmond in the premiership window next year.

Latest word: The Tigers were very happy to retain ruckman Ivan Soldo during the trade period, who had been discussed as an option for Greater Western Sydney as part of the Jacob Hopper trade. Midfielder Jack Graham will also be welcomed back with open arms after exploring a trade opportunity with Port Adelaide.

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ADELAIDE​

Draft picks: 23, 46

List needs: Midfield class and height, key defender, young ruckman

Who could be available at first pick: Max Michalanney, Harry Barnett, Ed Allan, Isaac Keeler, Lewis Hayes, Henry Hustwaite, Coby Burgiel

Who’s in the mix after that: Jaiden Magor, Jaxon Binns, Adam D’Aloia, Kyle Marshall

After Adelaide gave up pick 5 in a trade to land Gold Coast’s Izak Rankine, the Crows won’t enter the draft until the second night, when they will be hoping to pick a player before a bid comes for father-son prospect and Norwood defender Max Michalanney, who sits right in the second-round mix. The best ruckman in the draft, Harry Barnett, is another homegrown talent, whose profile fits the developing Crows’ list. But will he still be available? It still looks unlikely Isaac Keeler, a Crows Next Generation Academy prospect and forward/ruck, will fall to pick 40, where Adelaide gets access to him. WA bolter Ed Allan has the size and speed the Crows’ crave in the midfield.

Latest word: The Crows have shown significant interest in Barnett, but some clubs believe the big man could be off the board by pick 23. Would they trade up?


BRISBANE LIONS​

Draft picks: 34, 35, 36, 38, 55, 56, 73

List needs: Key forward, midfield speed

Who could be available at first pick: Will Ashcroft

Who’s in the mix after that: Jaspa Fletcher

The preliminary finalist will get the best player in this year’s draft, Will Ashcroft, the son of 318-game premiership Lion Marcus. But he won’t come cheap, with a potential bid from GWS costing the Lions 2400 (3000 minus the 20% discount) draft points. But the Giants appear a better chance of letting him slide than the Kangaroos were. Despite landing Josh Dunkley, Brisbane added to its draft points during the trade period, with its current hand equating to 2432. But Ashcroft isn’t the only father-son prospect available this year, with the son of Brisbane Bears and Lions player Adrian Fletcher, Jaspa – a long-kicking, skilful midfielder – also in the top-20 mix.

Latest word: Brisbane has done well to position itself to match early bids, but might still need more yet. It’s hard to see the Lions taking anyone else, but they have shown some interest in North Adelaide swingman Shaun Bennier, who looms as a late-rookie chance.


COLLINGWOOD​

Draft picks: 16, 25, 27, 51

List needs: Key forward, key defender, ruckman

Who could be available at first pick: Matthew Jefferson, Lewis Hayes, Olli Hotton, Ollie Hollands

Who’s in the mix after that: Brayden George, Isaac Keeler, Harry Barnett, Charlie Clarke

The Magpies addressed many of their immediate list needs through the trade period, adding Tom Mitchell, Dan McStay, Billy Frampton and Bobby Hill. This draft will be about looking to the future, with a lot of key senior players including Scott Pendlebury (34), Jeremy Howe (32), Steele Sidebottom (31), Mason Cox (31), Jamie Elliott (30), Brody Mihocek (29) and Taylor Adams (29) not getting any younger. Tall forward Matthew Jefferson would be handy if he slips down the order more than expected, while Lewis Hayes could also appeal as a key defender. South Australian key forward Isaac Keeler could come into the frame in the second round, as could ruckman Harry Barnett.

Latest word: The Pies have indicated they might look for a ruckman through the draft or over summer for back-up as they look to a future which now doesn’t include Brodie Grundy.


CARLTON​

Draft picks: 10, 29, 49, 66

List needs: Outside run, wingman, key defensive depth

Who could be available at first pick: Ollie Hollands, Mattaes Phillipou, Jedd Busslinger, Cam Mackenzie

Who’s in the mix after that: Max Gruzewski, Jaxon Binns, Jason Gillbee, Tyreece Leiu

If Carlton moves up the order from pick 10, powerful midfielder-forward Bailey Humphrey or smooth-mover Cam Mackenzie would give their midfield mix a point-of-difference. The Blues secured Blake Acres on the cheap but their outside run remains an area it can bolster at the draft. Ollie Hollands, the brother of Gold Coast’s Elijah, took out the 2km time trial with a sizzling time of 5:54 and can play all over the ground. He would be a nice fit at the Blues, having risen into top 10 calculations after a strong finish to the year. Taller midfield-forward Mattaes Phillipou also ran a strong 2km and would be around the mark at pick 10. Or if they look to shore up their tall defensive stocks for the future – having been depleted in that department mid-year – then WA interceptor Jedd Busslinger fits the bill. Wingers Jaxon Binns and Jason Gillbee present as outside midfield options with their next two picks. Overlooked 2022 prospect Tyreece Leiu is one to watch late in the piece after an exceptional finish to the year in Carlton’s VFL side as a key defender, with the club impressed with his development.

Latest word: Carlton made their intentions clear during the trade period that club wishes to improve its draft hand – whether that be on draft night or beforehand. Would the Blues give up pick 29 or a future selection to shuffle further into the top 10?


ESSENDON​

Draft picks: 4, 22, 54, 62, 68, 72

List needs: Tall midfielder, key-position players, small forward

Who could be available at first pick: Harry Sheezel, Elijah Tsatas, George Wardlaw, Mattaes Phillipou, Bailey Humphrey

Who’s in the mix after that: Olli Hotton, Jacob Konstanty, Anthony Munkara, Coby Burgiel, Ed Allan, Ethan Phillips, Jaydon Davey

With the Giants a strong chance to take Aaron Cadman, the Bombers will be ready to swoop on one of Elijah Tsatas, George Wardlaw or Harry Sheezel – whoever gets past North Melbourne’s pick 2 and 3. And given the club’s need for a genuine matchwinner – or a player who can add a much-needed point-of-difference to the midfield mix - either Tsatas, the classy all-round speedster, or the prospect who can turn a game like no other in the draft pool, Sheezel, would fit perfectly. Ideally, the Bombers take another player before a bid comes for father-son prospect Alwyn Davey Jnr, but it will be a nervous first night, with Davey Jnr’s talent putting him firmly in the first-round mix. If it goes Essendon’s way, the goalkicking feats and skill of Olli Hotton and Jacob Konstanty will appeal, while NGA member Anthony Munkara looms as the draft’s wildcard.

Latest word: The hugely-talented Munkara’s position in the draft is a fascinating one. As skilful as just about any prospect, some believe there is little chance he gets to 40, where Essendon can match a bid. But given his inconsistencies, other clubs might not jump before then.


FREMANTLE​

Draft picks: 44, 67, 76

List needs: Key forward, wingman, ruckman,

Who could be available at first pick: Jed Hagan, Steely Green, Jaxon Binns, Jason Gillbee

Who’s in the mix after that: Jed Adams, Corey Wagner, Josh Draper (NGA), Harry Lemmey. Jasper Scaife (NGA)

Fremantle lost a handful of players during the trade period but it won’t enter the draft until pick 44, which will likely come in once father-son bids are matched. Unfortunately, there isn’t too many talls later in the piece that can replace the likes of Rory Lobb, Griffin Logue and Lloyd Meek. Small utilities Jed Hagan and Darcy Jones have shone in the WAFL at different stages this year and would be around the mark at their first pick, along with running machines Jaxon Binns and Jason Gillbee, who could replace Blake Acres in the long-term. Tall Harry Lemmey, who loomed as a top-10 pick before a confidence slump, may be available at their first choice, while WA key defenders Hugh Davies and Jed Adams could enter the frame later. The Dockers have shown interest in VFL mature-ager Corey Wagner, who has been recast as a damaging defender for Port Melbourne. It would be his third chance at AFL level after stints with North Melbourne and Melbourne.

Latest word: The loss of Lobb and Meek has strengthened the claims of Dockers NGA prospect Josh Draper as a later draft or rookie option. The key forward has a fantastic leap, is capable of backing up in the ruck and showed good signs this year when he wasn’t sidelined with an ankle injury.


GEELONG​

Draft picks: 7, 58, 64

List needs: Running defender, key forward, young talent

Who could be available at first pick: Jhye Clark, Matthew Jefferson, Bailey Humphrey Mattaes Phillipou, Oliver Hollands

Who’s in the mix after that: Harvey Gallagher, Kaleb Smith, Harry Lemmey, Oskar Kregar, Ted Clohesy (NGA)

Geelong left trade period with Tanner Bruhn, Ollie Henry and a top-10 pick which could land the premiers one of the draft’s best prospects, and local product, Jhye Clark. The tough, competitive, well-balanced midfielder looms as the ideal replacement for Joel Selwood. In the middle rounds, long-kicking line-breakers Harvey Gallagher and Kaleb Smith – a bolter out of WA – could fit into the Mitch Duncan and Zac Tuohy spots long term, while Geelong Falcons vice-captain, and tough contested-ball winner, Ted Clohesy is another who will be in the Cats’ sights later in the draft. The 18-year-old a member of the club’s Next Generation Academy.

Latest word: If he’s still available at pick 7, which will become pick 8 after the Ashcroft bid, it’s hard to see the Cats passing up the homegrown gun in Clark – and, at this point, it’s seems likely he gets to there.


GOLD COAST​

Draft picks: 5, 45, 71, 74

List needs: Talented midfielder-forward

Who could be available at first pick: Reuben Ginbey, Bailey Humprey, Mattaes Phillipou

Who’s in the mix after that: Unknown

The Suns are on the hunt for a player at the top of the draft who has got the flexibility to play multiple positions, with big-bodied Western Australia midfielder Reuben Ginbey one such player who has caught their attention. Victorian midfielder-forward Bailey Humphrey could also fit the bill, as could South Australian goalkicking midfielder Mattaes Phillipou. The Suns have spoken to Ollie Hollands – the brother of Elijah Hollands – but he is not expected to command a top-10 pick. Gold Coast did have pick 7 as well, but gave that away to Geelong as part of the Jack Bowes trade which relieved some salary cap pressure. When pick 45 comes around it will be best available. Clubs only expect around 50 players to be selected in the national draft.

Latest word: Gold Coast loaded up on future picks in next year’s draft during the trade period in anticipation of some top Academy prospects coming through including Jed Walter, Jake Rogers, Ethan Read and Will Graham.


GWS GIANTS​

Draft picks: 1, 15, 18, 19, 31, 57, 61

List needs: Key forward, small forwards, scoreboard impact, inside midfielder

Who could be available at first pick: Aaron Cadman

Who’s in the mix after that: Josh Weddle, Jacob Konstanty, Darcy Jones, Charlie Clarke Harry Rowston (academy)

Key forward Aaron Cadman looks a monty to join the Giants with the first live of the open pick with the club sacrificing picks 3 and 12 to move up in the Jason Horne-Francis mega-trade. With their three picks in the teens, speedy small forwards will be on the agenda. Prospects like agility test-record breaker Darcy Jones, the charismatic Charlie Clarke, tackling machine Jacob Konstanty and dynamic forward Noah Long will all be in the mix. Clarke looks up to Toby Greene and has the same antagonistic approach, and also has a freakish ability around goal. Athletic 191cm defender Josh Weddle is another prospect in the frame for those picks if he is still on the board, and they may be more inclined to look at a midfielder after losing Jacob Hopper, Tim Taranto and Tanner Bruhn. The Giants are prone for a draft night surprise – they stunned by snaring mature-age defender Leek Aleer at pick 15 last year – and they could look to bundle their picks in the teens to move up the order to snare a top-10 slider. Allies MVP Harry Rowston is tied to the Giants’ Academy, with a bid set to come in the second or third round for the tough midfielder-forward. GWS has also shown strong interest in dynamic mature-ager Corey Preston, after a strong finish to the season for Williamstown, who could play a small forward role.

Latest word: Cadman isn’t necessarily No.1 on the Giants’ talent board, with the club saying publicly that they draft from a different pool to Victorian clubs due to the go-home factor. The Giants have 201cm ruck monster Nick Madden, who appears more likely to join the club after they were unable to pick up Ivan Soldo in the Hopper deal.


HAWTHORN​

Draft picks: 6, 24, 41, 48, 50, 52, 65

List needs: Classy midfielder with power and speed

Who could be available at first pick: Bailey Humprey, Jhye Clark, Cam Mackenzie, Mattaes Phillipou

Who’s in the mix after that: Brayden George, Jacob Konstanty, Mitch Szybkowski, Cooper Vickery

The Hawks have seven draft picks in the first four rounds at the moment, but might look to package some of them up to move a little higher up the order. At pick six, they will be able to land a handy player like midfielder-forward Bailey Humphrey, onballer Jhye Clark or classy ball-winner Cam Mackenzie. With their second pick, Brayden George could appeal as a mid-sized power forward, as could livewire small forward Jacob Konstanty. Cooper Vickery is a speedy rebounding defender or midfielder who is a Hawthorn Next Generation Academy member and could come into the frame with one of the later picks.

Latest word: The Hawks have denied they have “cut too deep” after parting ways with experienced trio Tom Mitchell, Jaeger O’Meara and Jack Gunston during the trade period. The departures have freed up significant salary cap space for future trade and free agency targets.

Contines next post ...

[one-eyed]

MELBOURNE​

Draft picks: 13, 37

List needs: Key forward, key defender

Who could be available at first pick: Matthew Jefferson, Mattaes Phillipou, Jedd Busslinger, Lewis Hayes

Who’s in the mix after that: Charlie Clarke, Harvey Gallagher, Jed Hagan, Blake Drury

With Sam Weideman’s departure to Essendon during the trade period, the Demons went after Western Bulldogs swingman Josh Schache as a back-up key forward. That spot still looks a weakness on their list but there look like being few options on the table at pick 13 unless Victorian key forward Matthew Jefferson slips outside the top-10. South Australian Mattaes Phillipou is also more likely to be a top-10 pick, but would appeal as a goalkicking midfielder. Alternatively, a young key defender could be targeted for life beyond Jake Lever and Steven May. West Australian Jedd Busslinger and Victorian Lewis Hayes are both exciting prospects in that department.

Latest word: The Demons are targeting what shapes as a potential ‘Super Draft’ in 2023, already holding two first-round selections and two second-round selections in that draft.


NORTH MELBOURNE​

Draft picks: 2, 3, 40, 43, 59, 70

List needs: Key defender, key forward, midfield class and speed

Who could be available at first pick: George Wardlaw, Harry Sheezel, Elijah Tsatas, Bailey Humphrey, Jedd Busslinger

Who’s in the mix after that: Billy Dowling, Blake Drury, Jaiden Magor, Cooper Harvey

After handing over pick 1 as part of the huge Jason Horne-Francis trade, North Melbourne has positioned itself to land two of the best three players in the draft. The Giants appear to favour Cadman with the first selection, but that’s not a league-wide view. So North fans should be pretty happy if the club walks away with two of the top-end trio of game-changer Harry Sheezel, Clayton Oliver-like midfielder George Wardlaw and speedster Elijah Tsatas. Later on, SA ball magnet Billy Dowling and lively small Blake Drury might enter the mix, while goalkicking small Cooper Harvey, the son of the all-time games record holder, Brent, is tied to the club as a father-son prospect.

Latest word: All eyes are on North Melbourne, who will shape the top 10 with its two early picks – and they could be used on Wardlaw and Sheezel.


PORT ADELAIDE
​
Draft picks: 33, 60

List needs: Quality midfielder, key defender, forwards

Who could be available at first pick: Jaxon Binns, Jacob Konstanty, Jaiden Magor, Coby Burgiel, Isaac Keeler, Ed Allan, Brayden George

Who’s in the mix after that: Baynen Lowe, Kaleb Smith, Harry Lemmey, Kyle Marshall, Ethan Phillips

It was a huge trade period for the Power, who addressed two pressing needs in explosive midfield young gun Jason Horne-Francis and goalkicking small-forward Junior Rioli. Like its SA rival, Port Adelaide – as it stands – won’t take part in the first night of the draft but the class and speed of Jaxon Binns and Coby Burgiel would suit the Power on the outside in the second round, as would the goalkicking feats of Jacob Konstanty. And could they be the club to jump at Isaac Keeler before the Crows get access in the 30s? Fellow SA talls Harry Lemmey, athletic defender Kyle Marshall and ruckman Will Verrell have developed right under Port’s noses, too.

Latest word: The aggressive Power were one of the winners of trade period – but its draft hand took a significant hit, this year and next. And they might just miss out on one of the more highly-rated talls at 33, after they failed to get Esava Ratugolea to Alberton.


ST KILDA​

Draft picks: 9, 28, 32, 47

List needs: Game-breakers, midfield speed, elite ball-users, key position depth

Who could be available at first pick: Bailey Humphrey, Cam Mackenzie (NGA), Mattaes Phillipou, Jedd Busslinger, Matthew Jefferson

Who’s in the mix after that: Brayden George, Charlie Clarke, Jaiden Magor, Bailey Macdonald

The under-fire Saints desperately need of matchwinners, and there’s several who could come into calculations with their first choice. Bailey Humphrey, who has shades of Jordan De Goey, would be a perfect fit but he may be off the board by then. They won’t have first dibs on their Next Generation Academy star Cam Mackenzie – bids inside the top 40 are protected - but taking him would make a lot of sense. His incredible poise, elite ball-use and speed can boost a lacklustre midfield group, and taller midfield option Mattaes Phillipou is also in that range as a dynamic midfielder-forward. Other gamebreaking forwards who could enter the frame with their next two selections include the powerful Brayden George, who will be sidelined for all of 2023 with injury, SA forward-midfielder Jaiden Magor and Sandringham livewire Charlie Clarke. Draft bolter Bailey Macdonald is raw but has electric speed which could help add to Jack Sinclair’s run off halfback in time.

Latest word: If you’ve been living under a rock, St Kilda is currently coachless after their club review. List boss James Gallagher said last week the club isn’t interested in finishing sixth, so they appear set to hit the draft hard in the coming years.


SYDNEY
 ​
Draft picks: 14, 17, 42, 75

List needs: Key defensive depth, clearance midfielder, running defender

Who could be available at first pick: Lewis Hayes, Josh Weddle, Elijah Hewett, Ollie Hollands

Who’s in the mix after that: Lachie Cowan, Sam Gilbey, Harvey Gallagher, Will Edwards (academy)

The Swans, headed by experienced recruiter Simon Dalrymple, prefer to pick on talent rather than specific list needs, and there should be plenty of options available with their two selections in the teens. Sydney picked up Aaron Francis from the Essendon during the trade period and either interceptor Lewis Hayes or competitive beast Josh Weddle would be quality additions for the future. The Swans’ clearance and contest game could also be bolstered with their early picks, with midfielders like Elijah Hewett, Ollie Hollands and Henry Hustwaite potentially available. If the Swans wish to add run out of defence to compliment Nick Blakey, Morrish medallist Lachie Cowan breaks lines with his penetrating kicking and leg speed, while Sam Gilbey’s class out of defence could come into their thinking later on.

Latest word: Swans Academy key defender Will Edwards ran a blistering 20m sprint for a big man at the state combine and impressed up against expected top-three pick Aaron Cadman earlier in the year. He shapes as a potential later draft or rookie option for the Swans.


WESTERN BULLDOGS​

Draft picks: 11, 21, 39, 69

List needs: Key defender, wingman, small forward

Who could be available at first pick: Jedd Busslinger, Mattaes Phillipou, Oliver Hollands, Olli Hotton

Who’s in the mix after that: Henry Hustwaite, Lewis Hayes, Jaspa Fletcher, Josh Weddle

The Bulldogs have a solid draft hand and should be able to fill some list holes with their first and second picks. South Australian midfielder-forward Mattaes Phillipou would be a good option with their first pick if he falls outside the top-10. West Australian key defender Jedd Busslinger would be another good option, with the club’s key defensive stocks looking a touch thin. After Lachie Hunter’s departure during the trade period, hard-running wingman Oliver Hollands would also be handy. With pick 21, Victorian key defenders Lewis Hayes and Josh Weddle could be available if the Bulldogs don’t secure Busslinger with pick 11. Henry Hustwaite is a tall midfielder who can play midfield or defence, while Jaspa Fletcher is another handy wingman but is a NGA prospect for Brisbane.

Latest word: Mattaes Phillipou is the son of Sam Phillipou, who played only three games in his one season with Footscray in 1995 but also enjoyed a successful career in the SANFL.


WEST COAST​

Draft picks: 8, 12, 20, 26

List needs: Midfield talent, key position depth, ruckman, outside run

Who could be available at first pick: Reuben Ginbey, Elijah Hewett, Jedd Busslinger

Who’s in the mix after that: Harry Barnett, Ed Allan, Kaleb Smith, Tyrell Dewar (NGA)

The Eagles have four picks inside the top 30, and you can lock in Reuben Ginbey at their first choice (after Ashcroft bid) if he is still on the board. The tall, athletic midfielder has stacks of potential and the Dockers fan has been strongly linked to West Coast. The Eagles have the chance to nab two West Australians with pick 8 and 12, with tall interceptor Jedd Busslinger and explosive midfielder Elijah Hewett firmly in calculations. However, Busslinger may be off the board before then. The club has shown interest in Harry Barnett, who is widely viewed as the top ruckman available in this draft, which makes sense given Nic Naitanui turns 33 next year, and 195cm midfield speedster Ed Allan presents as an exciting option with their picks in the 20s. Later on, powerful defender Kaleb Smith has links to the Eagles, with former West Coast defender Brad Sheppard one of his coaches at Wesley College. West Coast can also take lively small forward Tyrell Dewar through its Next Generation Academy, and there’s every chance he slips through to the rookie draft.

Latest word: The Eagles split their prized No.2 pick selection for picks eight and 12 in the four team mega-trade. Rivals believe the Eagles were even considering Ginbey with the second pick in the draft, given the go-home concerns surrounding a number of top prospects.

https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/draft/afl-indicative-draft-order-how-trade-period-changed-first-two-rounds/news-story/21130e5646aad75793496fdd24cf21d6

[one-eyed]

Kevin Sheehan’s 2022 NAB AFL Draft Top Prospects – Tall Defenders.

https://www.afl.com.au/news/858830/kevin-sheehan-s-2022-nab-afl-draft-top-prospects-tall-defenders

[one-eyed]

ESPN's early three-round phantom draft for 2022 - every pick of the first three rounds

Chris Doerre
ESPN
21 October 2022

Throughout 2022, ESPN.com.au AFL draft expert Chris Doerre has cast his eye over the country's best junior footballers to give readers an early insight into the next generation of AFL stars. He's released his latest three-round phantom draft.


1. Brisbane (matching GWS' bid) - Will Ashcroft (Brisbane - F/S) - Sandringham Dragons (VIC)
Will, the son of Brisbane great Marcus, has agreed to become a father-son selection for the Lions meaning Brisbane will match any bid for the talented youngster. A Round 1-ready midfielder who requires no time to develop, Will has dominated against all competition, headlined by his average of 29.3 disposals, 7.3 tackles and five clearances for Brisbane in the VFL and the Larke Medal for the best player during the Under-18 Championships. Will stands out with the volume of his contested ball winning and the frequency with which he bursts 5-15 metres out of stoppages.

2. GWS - Aaron Cadman - Greater Western Victoria Rebels (VIC)
The premier key forward in this year's draft, Cadman has demonstrated rapid improvement and has separated himself from the pack with the variety of ways he impacts games and takes advantage of rival key defenders. Cadman is a strong contested mark, creates separation on the lead, is powerful over ground balls, dangerous close to goal, and adept when pushing further afield.

3. North Melbourne - George Wardlaw - Oakleigh Chargers (VIC)
Wardlaw is a contested beast who does his best work at stoppages. A powerful first possession winner, Wardlaw absorbs and fends off opposition tacklers with ease. He is a reliable distributor by hand from stoppages and defensively displays an unmatched level of commitment and effort which sets him apart.

4. North Melbourne - Harry Sheezel - Sandringham Dragons (VIC)
One of this year's premier forwards, Sheezel demonstrates goal sense, sets up teammates forward of centre, takes contested marks, and is also a ground level threat inside 50. Also effective through the midfield, Sheezel wins first possession at stoppages, displays classy ball use and his deceptive agility and change of pace often catches opponents off guard.

5. Essendon - Elijah Tsatas - Oakleigh Chargers (VIC)
The premier loose ball-winning midfielder in this draft, Tsatas is routinely first to the ball and wins it on the move at speed. A balanced midfielder who can play inside or outside, Tsatas has an established reputation for the ease and speed with which he breaks the lines, with his acceleration and evasion of opponents on the move a highlight.

6. Gold Coast - Bailey Humphrey - Gippsland Power (VIC)
After missing Victoria Country's first three Under-18 Championships matches due to knee surgery, Humprey has starred since returning and has established himself as one of this year's most damaging dual position impact players. Up forward, Humphrey is a contested marking force and strong over ground balls while through the midfield he is a powerful contested ball winner with the strength to break tackles at will.

7. Hawthorn - Cameron Mackenzie (St Kilda NGA) - Sandringham Dragons (VIC)
Despite being a Saints Academy prospect, St Kilda will not have first access to Mackenzie as bids for Next-Generation Academy prospects can no longer be matched inside the top 40. A balanced and well-rounded midfielder, Mackenzie is a strong contested ball winner and is equally adept receiving the ball on the move at stoppages, where he displays quickness and evasion. He also hurts the opposition by foot by placing his kicks out in front of his targets to lead onto.

8. Geelong - Jhye Clark - Geelong Falcons (VIC)
Playing taller than his height, Clark is not only adept winning the contested ball through the midfield but is also a strong overhead mark who can push forward and provide a target. Winning the Victoria Country MVP during the Under-18 Championships, Clark is a complete midfielder who displays a promising inside/outside midfield balance by winning and tackling on the inside, while his composure, tidy skills, and high work rate on the outside are notable.

9. West Coast - Reuben Ginbey - East Perth (WA)
A tall, big-bodied, ball-winning midfielder with power and acceleration away from stoppages, Ginbey won the Western Australian MVP during the Under-18 Championships. A consistent performer, Ginbey has a powerful build and distributes effectively by hand. He also possesses the strength to stand up through and break tackles.

10. St Kilda - Mattaes Phillipou - Woodville-West Torrens (SA)
The son of former Footscray player Sam, Mattaes is a 192cm, dual position impact player who is arguably this year's most damaging prospect through the midfield and up forward. Through the midfield, Phillipou is a first possession winner who bursts out of stoppages at speed and demonstrates class with ball in hand. As a forward he provides a marking presence, hits the scoreboard at will, and sets up teammates inside 50 with precise entry kicks.

11. Carlton - Jedd Busslinger - East Perth (WA)
The most advanced key defender in this draft, Busslinger is an elite intercept mark who reads the ball early in flight and attacks the footy well in the air. With ball in hand, Busslinger is a composed and reliable ball user, while defensively he is competitive and able to curb the influence of his direct opponent.

12. Western Bulldogs - Oliver Hollands - Murray Bushrangers (VIC)
The younger brother of Gold Coast's Elijah, Oliver Hollands is one of the elite endurance athletes and two-way runners in this year's draft. A midfielder with a balanced inside/outside game, Hollands can push through the midfield and win his own ball, is a composed and classy user of the football by hand and foot, creates time and space for himself in traffic, and covers substantial ground over the course of a game.

13. West Coast - Elijah Hewett - Swan Districts (WA)
A big game performer, Hewett is a strong contested ball winning midfielder who displays power when exiting stoppages. Hewett possesses speed, agility, evasion, and is an aerial marking threat. Damaging when he secures the ball forward of centre, Hewett places kicks out in front of targets and is a dangerous finisher around goal.

14. Melbourne - Matthew Jefferson - Oakleigh Chargers (VIC)
An athletic, high-flying key forward, Jefferson is one of the best readers of the ball in flight in this draft and is a marking force forward of centre. Providing heavy scoreboard impact during the Under-18 Championships headlined by seven goals for Vic Metro against Western Australia, Jefferson does not need to find much of the football to put points on the board.

15. Brisbane (matching Sydney's bid) - Jaspa Fletcher (Brisbane - F/S) - Brisbane Lions (QLD)
The son of 231-gamer Adrian, Jaspa is not only a father-son eligible prospect for Brisbane but has also been part of their Academy. Jaspa plays his best football on the outside, taking on the game with his speed and breaking games open with his run and carry and long and precise kicks.

16. Essendon (matching Sydney's bid) - Alwyn Davey Jr (Essendon F/S) - Oakleigh Chargers (VIC)
The son of former Essendon forward Alwyn, Davey Jr plays his best football forward and displays blistered speed, agility, and evasion with ball in hand. He is freakish at ground level, is dangerous both as a crumber and when a loose ball is there to be won, routinely makes something special happen with ball in hand, and applies good forward pressure, often providing second and third efforts.

17. Sydney - Henry Hustwaite - Dandenong Stingrays (VIC)
The younger brother of Collingwood VFL co-captain Campbell, Henry is a 194cm stoppage specialist. Hustwaite is not only one of this year's best contested ball-winning midfielders but is also a reliable inside distributor who demonstrates composure in traffic. Hustwaite is a rapid improver with substantial upside who has benefitted from a late growth spurt.

18. GWS - Jacob Konstanty - Gippsland Power (VIC)
As dangerous as any small forward in this year's draft around goal, Konstanty wreaks havoc both at ground level and as a marking target. While Konstanty is a weapon offensively around goal, his speed, forward pressure and tackling inside 50 are also notable.

19. Collingwood - Lewis Hayes - Eastern Ranges (VIC)
The younger brother of Port Adelaide's Sam, Lewis Hayes is a rapidly improving key defender and one of this draft's youngest. A high-volume intercept marking key defender, Hayes involves himself regularly as a rebounder from defence. He demonstrates tidy skills and displays great mobility for someone his height.

20. Sydney - Olli Hotton - Sandringham Dragons (VIC)
A dual position player who impacts games through the midfield and up forward, Hotton is a dangerous matchup across both positions. Through the midfield, Hotton wins first possession at stoppages and evades opponents with speed and agility. As a forward, Hotton is an aerial threat, and demonstrates a high work rate. He also crumbs well at ground level.

21. GWS - Josh Weddle - Oakleigh Chargers (VIC)
A 'third tall defender' who possesses the height, strength, and leap to play tall and the speed to stick with dangerous small forwards. Weddle is a capable intercept mark, and the run and dare he displays from defence is striking and uncommon for someone his height and type.

22. GWS - Lachlan Cowan - Tasmania Devils (TAS)
A rebounding defender who generates meaningful drive from defence, Cowan is a damaging long kick and has the speed to break the lines. A prolific accumulator, Cowan is comfortable taking kickouts and is regularly intercepting in defence.

23. West Coast - Harry Barnett - West Adelaide (SA)
This year's most highly-touted ruckman, Barnett is a contested marking weapon whether pushing forward or behind the ball. Though the middle, Barnett is an effective tap ruckman, but what separates him at ruck contests is his strength to win the ball himself out of the ruck before disposing of the football.

24. Western Bulldogs - Darcy Jones - Swan Districts (WA)
A small but speedy outside midfielder, Jones breaks the lines and takes on the game with an unmatched level of dash and dare, displaying rare speed and agility. Breaking the record in the agility test during this year's AFL Draft Combine, while Jones plays a high impact-per-possession game, he also finds and wins a good amount of his own ball.

25. Adelaide - Coby Burgiel - Gippsland Power (VIC)
A versatile and speedy midfielder who hits the scoreboard and wins his own ball, Burgiel displays the versatility to play an inside or outside role or up forward. What stands out most with Burgiel is how natural he is with ball in hand in general play, and how rarely he needs to break stride whether marking or receiving by hand on the move.

26. Hawthorn - Isaac Keeler (Adelaide NGA) - North Adelaide (SA)
Part of Adelaide's Next-Generation Academy, the Crows will not have first access to Keeler if a bid is placed on him inside the top 40. A high-leaping, smooth moving athlete at 198cm, Keeler is dangerous around goal, can push high up the field, and displays impressive one-touch cleanliness at ground level. Arguably 2022's most freakish key forward, Keeler is also able to provide relieving minutes through the ruck.

27. Collingwood - Brayden George - Murray Bushrangers (VIC)
A strong-bodied, powerful forward, George plays a high impact-per-possession game. He hurts opponents by foot around the ground and does not need to find a lot of the ball to hit the scoreboard heavily. Proficient both overhead and at ground level, George is a marking threat one-on-one, aerially and on the lead, while at ground level he is a one-touch player and a powerful contested ball winner.

28. West Coast - Kaleb Smith - East Fremantle (WA)
A star during the WA State Combine, Smith won the 20m sprint and placed third in the agility test. One of this draft's most damaging rebounding defenders, Smith is a line breaker with speed and power who aggressively takes on the game with ball in hand and hurts opposition sides with his penetrating kick.

29. Collingwood - Mitch Szybkowski - Dandenong Stingrays (VIC)
A strong ball-winning midfielder, Szybkowski is one of this draft's better inside distributors, with his work by hand arguably the best in the draft. Possessing good speed, Szybkowski spreads well from stoppages, covers a lot of ground, displays agility, and, when given the time and space, places his kicks accurately out in front of targets.

30. St Kilda - Jaxon Binns - Dandenong Stingrays (VIC)
One of this draft's elite endurance runners, Binns is a midfielder who runs all day and accumulates disposals at will. While best utilised on a wing, Binns is also dangerous when he pushes forward, with his agility, evasion, ground level work and finishing around goal notable.

Continues next post ...

[one-eyed]

31. Adelaide (matching Carlton's bid) - Max Michalanney (Adelaide F/S) - Norwood (SA)
The son of Jim, Max Michanney is eligible to join Adelaide as a father-son selection due to his father playing more than 200 games for SANFL club Norwood. An athletic defender, Michalanney plays a negating style and is effective shutting down forwards of various heights and types.

32. Carlton - Max Gruzewski - Oakleigh Chargers (VIC)
A high leaping, strong contested marking tall, Gruzewski can impact games either as a third tall or key position player at either end of the field. Making Gruzewski such a prolific contested marking threat is the combination of his reading of the ball in flight, his strong hands overhead and marking at full stretch in addition to his leap and one-on-one craft.

33. Fremantle - Edward Allan - Claremont (WA)
The son of former Hawk and Docker Ben, Edward Allan is a tall utility of key position height who looks most likely to develop into either a tall wingman or flanker. Allan is a skilful and mobile tall who won the 20m sprint at this year's AFL Draft Combine and covers a lot of ground, finds the ball in bunches, and has also shown that he can even be utilised as an inside midfielder.

34. GWS - Noah Long - Bendigo Pioneers (VIC)
Damaging both as a forward and midfielder, Long's burst of speed and work at ground level are his strengths. When used through the midfield, Long often wins first possession and bursts out of stoppages at speed, while as a forward, he is dynamic, a natural crumber, and talented finisher around goal.

35. St Kilda - Max Knobel - Gippsland Power (VIC)
The son of former AFL ruckman Trent, Max Knobel is a late blooming ruckman who has continued growing this year. Now standing at 206cm, Knobel is a project player who is still growing into his body but is developing rapidly and has a knack for getting to the right positions behind the ball to take intercept marks.

36. Port Adelaide - Ethan Phillips - Port Melbourne (VIC)
Winning the Fothergill-Round-Mitchell Medal for the VFL's most promising young talent, Phillips has developed into the premier key defender outside the AFL. An elite reader of the ball and intercept mark, Phillips is also a strong one-on-one defender and rarely loses a contest.

37. Melbourne - Jaiden Magor - South Adelaide (SA)
A talented goalkicking forward who can push up through the midfield, Magor is a capable athlete with a good leap, speed and agility. As a forward he displays proficiency overhead and at ground level, always looking balanced, while through the midfield his class shines through with his balance, evasion, clean skills and ball winning capabilities.

38. Western Bulldogs - Charlie Clarke - Sandringham Dragons (VIC)
A speedy small forward, Clarke is one of the better crumbing forwards in this draft. Clarke plays with an infectious energy, applies good forward pressure and is not just a freakish finisher who can hit the scoreboard in bunches - but is also effective setting up teammates for shots on goal.

39. North Melbourne - Blake Drury - Oakleigh Chargers (VIC)
A natural crumbing forward, Drury is as good as any in this draft positioning himself at the base of the contest and winning the ball off hands. While best suited to playing as a forward, with Drury possessing above average speed, endurance, and skills, he has also proven adaptable to playing in defence, on a wing or through the midfield as required.

40. Hawthorn - Jakob Ryan - Glenelg (SA)
A well-rounded medium defender, Ryan's greatest strength is his intercepting capabilities. Able to take intercept marks and win intercept possessions at ground level, Ryan is a capable rebounder from defence and can generate drive both by foot and with his run and carry.

41. Sydney - James Van Es - Greater Western Victoria (VIC)
A strong bodied one-on-one key defender who rarely loses a contest, Van Es won the running vertical jump and placed equal first in the standing vertical jump at this year's AFL Draft Combine. A good reader of the ball in flight, Van Es is a potent intercept mark and contested mark who uses the ball reliably by foot.

42. North Melbourne - Cooper Harvey (North Melbourne F/S) - Northern Knights (VIC)
The son of Brent Harvey, Cooper Harvey is a strong, contested ball winning midfielder who displays the strength to maintain his feet when tackled and fend off opposition tackles with power. Possessing good skills, Harvey displays smarts, class, composure and sound decision making with ball in hand and can also push forward and impact the scoreboard.

43. Essendon (matching Fremantle's bid) - Anthony Munkara (Essendon NGA) - West Adelaide (NT)
An Essendon Next-Generation Academy prospect due to being a part of Essendon's Northern Territory Zone, the Bombers will be hoping Munkara slips past pick 40 so they can match bids. Munkara is a talented medium forward who is a strong overhead mark with a springy leap who plays an instinctive style of game, displays good skills and is a talented finisher around goal.

44. Fremantle - Jed Hagan - East Fremantle (WA)
A small, speedy impact player, Hagan possesses the versatility to play forward, back or through the midfield. An advanced player for his age who earned eight WAFL League games this year, Hagan possesses a neat burst of speed, is a composed and reliable kick who is a good contested ball winner for his size and particularly excels winning loose balls.

45. Gold Coast - Sam Gilbey - Claremont (WA)
A medium intercept marking defender, Gilbey is an exceptional reader of the ball in flight who not only gets to the right spots behind the ball to take intercept marks but also displays sticky hands overhead. Despite his light frame, he absorbs opposition contact well and holds onto his marks. An athletic defender who moves well, Gilbey is a capable rebounder and sound ball user.

46. St Kilda - Bailey Macdonald - Oakleigh Chargers (VIC)
A speedy line breaking defender, Macdonald breaks games open with the run and drive he generates from defence. Macdonald is one of this draft's most impressive speed/agility athletes and his impact on games is based around the metres he gains and the high frequently he accelerates at speed from defence.

47. GWS (matching Hawthorn's bid) - Harry Rowston (GWS Academy) - Greater Western Sydney (NSW)
A Greater Western Sydney Academy prospect, Rowston was the Allies MVP during the Under-18 Championships. A strong ball winning midfielder who displays a high work rate and the versatility to push forward, Rowston provides a genuine marking target forward of centre and can hit the scoreboard.

48. Hawthorn - Adam D'Aloia - Woodville-West Torrens (SA)
South Australia's MVP during the Under-18 Championships, D'Aloia is a stoppage star who does his best work in close. One of this year's most advanced and productive midfielders, D'Aloia plays a competitive two-way game, is a strong contested ball winner and tackler who distributes well by hand.

49. Carlton - Jason Gillbee - Bendigo Pioneers (VIC)
An endurance running machine, Gillbee finished a narrow second place behind Ollie Hollands in the 2km time trial during the AFL Draft Combine. An outside accumulator who likely settles on a wing, Gillbee is a strong mark and can also push into defence and perform an accountable role or generate run.

50. Geelong - Harvey Gallagher - Bendigo Pioneers (VIC)
A versatile overager who plays his best football across half-back, Gallagher displays a burst of speed, good agility, and evasion, regularly takes on the game with his run and generates meaningful drive by foot. An impressive intercept mark for a small, Gallagher reads the play early to get into position for intercept marks.

51. Collingwood - Will Verrall - South Adelaide (SA)
An athletic ruckman, Verrall follows up well at ground level and is a contested marking force around the ground. With his strength one-on-one, strong contested marking capabilities and how early he reads the drop of the ball, Verrall while he has played most of his football as a ruckman may develop best as a key defender.

52. Hawthorn - Cooper Vickery (Hawthorn NGA) - Gippsland Power (VIC)
A versatile and damaging footballer, Vickery is a Hawthorn Next-Generation Academy prospect who displays the versatility to play in defence, up forward and through the midfield. A damaging footballer, Vickery impacts games with his run and penetrating kicking.

53. Richmond - Will Dowling - North Adelaide (SA)
Averaging 30.9 disposals and 1.5 goals per game in the SANFL Under-18s, Dowling is a goalkicking midfielder who displays the versatility to play inside, outside and across half-forward. Dowling covers the ground well and knows where to be go to amass a lot of touches, whether it's around stoppages or on the outside.

54. Gold Coast - Tom McCallum - Tasmania Devils (TAS)
Just short of key defence height at 192cm, McCallum plays taller than his height with his one-on-one strength and work aerially strengths. An elite ball reader who routinely gets to the drop of the ball, McCallum is one of this draft's best intercept marks and takes a good number of them contested.

55. Geelong - Ted Clohesy (Geelong NGA) - Geelong Falcons (VIC)
A Geelong Next-Generation Academy midfielder, Clohesy is one of this draft's premier competitors. Best suited as a midfielder, Clohesy is a strong contested ball winner who distributes effectively by hand, works hard both ways, chases and pressures relentlessly and is a strong tackler.

https://www.espn.com.au/afl/story/_/id/34833515/afl-2022-phantom-draft-espn-three-round-breakdown-chris-doerre

[mightytiges]

As for other top prospects, Oakleigh’s Elijah Tsatas and GWV Rebels’ Aaron Cadman both support Richmond.

https://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/draft/afl-draft-2022-news-which-team-do-prospects-support-olli-hotton-collingwood-george-wardlaw-essendon-cam-mackenzie-hawthorn/news-story/b05c8bc500fcc749b26f81183203bdd3

So that will be two childhood Tiger fans at GWS after November's draft.

Come home Aaron to Punt Rd in a couple of years and your boyhood dreams of kickin bags of goals for the adoring Tiger Army at a packed 'G .

[Andyy]

As for other top prospects, Oakleigh’s Elijah Tsatas and GWV Rebels’ Aaron Cadman both support Richmond.

https://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/draft/afl-draft-2022-news-which-team-do-prospects-support-olli-hotton-collingwood-george-wardlaw-essendon-cam-mackenzie-hawthorn/news-story/b05c8bc500fcc749b26f81183203bdd3

So that will be two childhood Tiger fans at GWS after November's draft.

Come home Aaron to Punt Rd in a couple of years and your boyhood dreams of kickin bags of goals for the adoring Tiger Army at a packed 'G .

Yeah well contacts for draftees don't mean anything anymore so we may as well get in his ear