Here we go! Seventy-one picks, nine bids, four live trades and a whole lot of drama is being predicted in ESPN's full, final phantom ahead of the 2024 AFL Draft.
Marvel Stadium plays host to Wednesday night's first round, where a projected 27 teenagers will have their dream realised. It's an extended first stanza due to North Melbourne's priority picks, free agency compensation and expected bids placed on club-tied prospects Levi Ashcroft, Leo Lombard, Isaac Kako and Sam Marshall.
Richmond will be on the clock with their first of eight selections inside the top 24 - but they're linked to trades on draft night that could see a couple of those picks moved out for a haul in the 2025 draft.
One thing is for certain, Richmond is not trading the No. 1 selection. Bacchus Marsh bull Sam Lalor will be selected with the prized pick, and is set to be presented with the no. 4 jumper by his idol Dustin Martin.
The draft heats up from pick 2. The Roos have canvassed trade offers for the selection but look set to stay put. Instead, their future picks are on the table for a move back into the top half of the draft.
Recruiters spoken to have hesitated to label 2024's crop a super draft. More accurately, the depth and evenness of prospects has been a stunning revelation across the season, meaning clubs are desperate to get in and others aren't budging on their picks. In particular, the Victorian contingent bats deep with talent and could make up nearly two-thirds of prospects drafted.
This Phantom Draft -- live trades and all -- adjusts the draft order based on where bids lie and the points required to match. It means your club's selections will slide up and down from their original spots at the start of the night. It takes into account the 20% discount afforded to bids in the first round in addition to the number of selections each club is expected to take in the national draft.
On the morning of the first round of the 2024 AFL Draft, is ESPN's full, final Phantom Draft.
READ: Jasper's final top 50 Power Rankings, with stats and 'plays like' comparisons
1. Richmond - Sam Lalor
GWV Rebels/Vic Country
MID/FWD, 188cm
Lalor will be presented the No. 4 Richmond guernsey on Wednesday night by Dustin Martin, completing a passing of the torch at Tigerland. The explosive midfielder hasn't done as much as previous No. 1 selections in their draft years - in fact, he's battled injuries throughout and struggled to stay on the park. But Richmond sees the same upside it saw when picking Dusty 15 years ago. After months of speculation, Lalor will be the No. 1 pick in the 2024 AFL Draft.
In the mix: Finn O'Sullivan
READ: The powerful goalkicking midfielder likened to Dusty by his coach
2. North Melbourne - Finn O'Sullivan
Oakleigh Chargers/Vic Country
MID, 182cm
The draft can be flipped as early as North at this spot. It remains a live trade chance, though rival clubs now believe it likely the Roos take Finn O'Sullivan. The balanced midfielder can play outside of the centre square with an aerial presence and scoreboard impact, and came into the season the warm No. 1 fancy. Alix Tauru is the wildcard - if the interceptor is chosen at this spot, the flow-on effect means St Kilda likely gets access to one of the midfielders they rate in the top tier of the pool such as Harvey Langford or Josh Smillie.
In the mix: Alix Tauru, Sid Draper
3. Carlton - Sid Draper
South Adelaide/South Australia
MID, 182cm
The Blues traded up for the right to draft a ready-made midfielder. They've now done their due diligence on Draper - who Michael Voss flew to SA to meet last week - and it's a tight race between him and Smith if O'Sullivan is off the board. Draper's explosive attributes make him the perfect fit alongside Patrick Cripps and Sam Walsh. He's a ball-winner who takes the game forward with dare and urgency, which may separate him from the ball magnet in Smith. Expect O'Sullivan to be the choice here if he is somehow on the board.
In the mix: Finn O'Sullivan, Jagga Smith
READ: SANFL exploits has SA's top prospect in top 3 calculation
4. Adelaide - Jagga Smith
Oakleigh Chargers/Vic Metro
MID, 181cm
The Crows discussed a move up to pick 2, but may need to give up their future second-rounder to get it done. At 4, they must await the decisions of the Roos and Blues before them. Adelaide loves Smith's ability to bring others into the game with slick inside work, but also provide the dash their midfield lacks. He offers shades of crosstown rival Zak Butters with his snaking movement out of congestion. This is a hotly contested selection - local kid Sid Draper is right in the mix, as is Harvey Langford. Whether the Crows jump up or stay at 4, they will select a midfielder.
In the mix: Sid Draper, Harvey Langford
READ: Jagga Smith, the 2024 AFL Draft's most exciting midfielder
5. BID: Brisbane - Levi Ashcroft (Father-son)
Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro
MID, 179cm
This is the latest a bid can be expected for the star father-son. Ashcroft will add to his family's rich lineage at the Lions as a strong ball-winning midfielder. Levi offers more goal nous than his Norm Smith-winning brother Will, having played extended periods of his junior career in the forward line as an under-ager. Multiple clubs spoken to have Ashcroft at the top of their draft board in 2024.
READ: Lions' draft riches set to extend premiership window
6. Melbourne - Harvey Langford
Dandenong Stingrays/Vic Country
MID, 190cm
After placing a bid on Ashcroft, the Dees are well poised to select midfielder Harvey Langford to bolster their engine room stocks. The big-bodied on-baller is a strong mark, boasts a penetrating left leg and kicked goals at every level in 2024. Melbourne isn't short of options at this spot, but are expected to select a midfielder with WA captain Bo Allan also in the frame.
In the mix: Bo Allan, Josh Smillie
7. Richmond - Josh Smillie
Eastern Ranges/Vic Metro
MID, 195cm
Smillie has continually been linked to this selection, but the Tigers could pivot if the trio of O'Sullivan, Smith, and Tauru haven't been snapped up. The 195cm midfielder is unique and exciting, continually flashing upside this season as a ball-winning goalkicker. Smillie is another upside pick for the Tigers to pair with Lalor in their midfield for the next decade.
In the mix: Alix Tauru, Harvey Langford
READ: Is sky-high upside enough for 194cm midfield beast to go top 5?
8. BID: Gold Coast - Leo Lombard (Academy)
Gold Coast VFL/Allies
MID/FWD, 178cm
Lombard is the most underrated player in the crop. He enters the AFL as one of its best athletes ever, and has the skill to back up his speed and power. Lombard won a VFL premiership as a 16-year-old and has impressed at the level again in 2024. St Kilda is linked to a bid for the Suns-bound midfielder at one of these selections. Once Lombard is bid on, the Suns will work to get back into the first round with their three future first-rounders.
READ: Leo Lombard, the Academy prospect who could force an AFL Draft rule change
9. St Kilda - Tobie Travaglia
Bendigo Pioneers/Vic Country
DEF/MID, 187cm
Travaglia is a ferocious competitor, aerobic freak, and quality defender. It would no longer be a surprise to see him taken inside the top 10. Off halfback or on a wing is where he should start his career as he puts size on his frame, but clubs are confident he makes the move on-ball in a similar fashion to Will Day. The Saints have warmed to the idea of Travaglia at one of these selections despite their need for midfield depth.
In the mix: Josh Smillie, Harvey Langford
10. TRADE: GWS - Alix Tauru
Gippsland Power/Vic Country
FWD/DEF, 193cm
The Giants are no strangers to moving up the order to grab the player they want and must do so here if they want Tauru with Melbourne and Richmond poised to swoop. GWS moved all the way up to No. 1 to select Aaron Cadman two years ago, and they are the team best positioned to satisfy St Kilda in a live trade. North Melbourne will have their future first on the table for Tauru, and the Eagles and Suns are poised to offer multiple selections in the top 25 of next year's draft. Richmond is another that could push up to secure this pick, which has become the most sought after in 2024. This trade gives the Saints the strongest result with three picks inside the top 25.
Tauru's elite aerial ability and upside to become one of the game's premier interceptors should see him land inside the top 10 on Wednesday night. He's a brilliant athlete capable of playing at either end of the ground, though needs to round out his ground level game.
In the mix: Tobie Travaglia, Xavier Lindsay
11. Melbourne - Bo Allan
Peel Thunder/Western Australia
DEF/MID, 191cm
Allan is best available on many recruiters' big boards here, but he also fits the list build at the Dees as a hardened, ready-to-go body that can play down back or through the midfield. Coaches rave about his leadership qualities and his ability to impose himself on contests. Touted as a future AFL captain, Allan is strongly linked to both Melbourne and Richmond ahead of the WA clubs.
In the mix: Alix Tauru, Tobie Travaglia
12. Richmond - Jobe Shanahan
Bendigo Pioneers/Allies
FWD, 194cm
Rival clubs expect the Tigers to target midfielders at picks 1 and 6, then address list needs with this selection. Recruiters are split on the best key forward in this draft, with Harry Armstrong and Jack Whitlock also in contention. Shanahan, however, looms large as the complete package. He can cover the ground, impact in the air, and has demonstrated consistent scoreboard impact at VFL level.
In the mix: Tobie Travaglia, Harry Armstrong
13. BID: Essendon - Isaac Kako (NGA)
Calder Cannons/Vic Metro
FWD, 175cm
The Bombers were bracing for an early bid for prized NGA small forward Isaac Kako and acted preemptively by trading with Melbourne for pick 9. This ensured they had the necessary points to secure Kako, who instantly becomes Essendon's most exciting small forward prospect. Kako is capable of extraordinary feats that will excite fans and fill stadiums.
A bid this late is likely to prompt Essendon to trade one of their second-rounders into the 2025 draft, potentially acquiring North Melbourne's future second-round pick. The Bombers remain eager to re-enter night one and may dangle Melbourne's future first-rounder, but competition from other clubs makes it challenging.
14. Richmond - Xavier Lindsay
Gippsland Power/Vic Country
MID, 183cm
Having already selected upside players in Lalor and Smillie, Richmond opts for reliability with Xavier Lindsay. A well-balanced midfielder with a beautiful left foot, Lindsay is versatile enough to play across all three areas of the ground. He's expected to make an early impact at AFL level. Richmond would have taken Allan here had he been available.
In the mix: Bo Allan, Taj Hotton
15. West Coast - Taj Hotton
Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro
FWD/MID, 182cm
West Coast makes a bold play here, selecting Taj Hotton despite his ACL injury, which will sideline him for the entirety of the 2025 season. Hotton's range starts even earlier in this draft, a testament to the scintillating football he displayed before his injury. A mercurial talent, Hotton excels in the forward half but can also accumulate through the midfield thanks to his strong athletic profile.
Travaglia and Lindsay were mentioned for this pick but may already be off the board. Emerging half-forward Joe Berry is another name in the mix.
In the mix: Tobie Travaglia, Xavier Lindsay
16. Port Adelaide - Jack Whitlock
Murray Bushrangers/Vic Country
FWD, 200cm
Port is expected to go tall at this pick and should have at least one of Shanahan, Armstrong, or Whitlock to choose from. Taking Whitlock over Armstrong would be a tight call, but his capacity to run through the ruck and take big contested grabs at 200cm will appeal in the post-Dixon era.
In the mix: Jobe Shanahan, Harry Armstrong
17. Fremantle - Joe Berry
Murray Bushrangers/Vic Country
FWD, 181cm
Berry could go as high as Richmond at picks 10 and 11. As a half forward, he offers everything-able to find a lot of ball on the outside of the contest, use it well by hand and foot, and consistently kick goals. Fremantle would love Allan or Lindsay to slide to this pick and will also consider Hotton if available, but pairing Berry with recruit Shai Bolton makes sense for a team ready to contend.
In the mix: Xavier Lindsay, Taj Hotton
18. TRADE: St Kilda - Murphy Reid
Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro
MID/FWD, 180cm
Trade: St Kilda give picks 10 and 47 to GWS for picks 17, 18, and 21.
This may be the best-case scenario if St Kilda does split. The Reid slide isn't likely to go much further, and the local product suits the Saints as a creative half-forward with the ability to push into the midfield in the future. Reid has his knocks, but he's also one of the smartest and classiest prospects this year.
In the mix: Xavier Lindsay, Christian Moraes
19. TRADE: St Kilda - Harry Armstrong
Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro
FWD, 195cm
Trade: St Kilda give picks 10 and 47 to GWS for picks 17, 18, and 21.
Talk around Armstrong sliding has grown stronger in the past 48 hours, to the point where he could be the third key forward off the board. That doesn't mean his accurate set-shot routine and athletic profile won't see Armstrong succeed at the next level. He has AFL-quality traits and would prove a devastating pairing with Max King. This would be a massive result for the Saints and justify a bold decision to split a top-10 selection.
In the mix: Jack Whitlock, Matt Whitlock
20. Western Bulldogs - Cooper Hynes
Dandenong Stingrays/Vic Country
FWD/MID, 190cm
The Dogs have been linked to a host of mid-forwards at this pick, but links to Hynes have been strong for weeks now, and he's likely to land in this range. A bullocking midfielder at junior level, Hynes did his best work forward of centre as a hard-nosed goalkicker with power and dare. There isn't anyone quite like him on the Dogs' list.
In the mix: Murphy Reid, Ollie Hannaford
21. Richmond - Jesse Dattoli
Northern Knights/Vic Metro
MID/FWD, 179cm
Dattoli's range is wide, reflecting his match-winning traits tempered with inconsistent performances. The Tigers likely err against Dattoli if they take Berry beforehand, but the contested marking potential as a small forward is enticing. Dattoli believes he will be a midfielder at the next level.
In the mix: Joe Berry, Harrison Oliver
22. Sydney - Jonty Faull
GWV Rebels/Vic Country
FWD, 195cm
Faull began the season as the top key forward prospect in a shallow pool before a back injury ruled him out of the early rounds. He's kicked bags of goals as a determined and consistent tall presence, persistent on the lead and reliable in front of goal. The Swans have put work into a number of tall options at both ends in the latter stages of the pool, but Faull's range sits comfortably in the 20s.
In the mix: Matt Whitlock, Harrison Oliver
23. TRADE: West Coast - Matt Whitlock
Murray Bushrangers/Vic Country
DEF/FWD, 199cm
Trade: Richmond trades pick 23 and a future third round pick for West Coast's future first round pick tied to Hawthorn and their future second round pick
The Eagles are pushing to trade into the first round with future selections and have been linked to key position prospects throughout. The Tigers are well positioned to gain an enviable 2025 draft hand by trading later first-rounders out to talent-hungry clubs like West Coast. Some clubs see Whitlock's future up forward, but he did his best work as a reliable defender with his long reach and athletic profile. He's an ideal long-term prospect at either end for the Eagles.
In the mix: Matt Whitlock, Harrison Oliver
24. St Kilda - Christian Moraes
Eastern Ranges/Vic Metro
MID/FWD, 183cm
Moraes is still in first round contention despite a slide from top-10 prospects at the start of the season. He's an elite runner and accumulates the ball wherever he plays. He needs to make better decisions with the ball - especially under pressure - but adds huge running power as an outside midfielder.
In the mix: Alex Dodson, Jasper Alger
25. BID: Brisbane - Sam Marshall (Academy)
Sandringham Dragons/Allies
MID, 185cm
So long as a bid for Ashcroft doesn't come at no. 1 - which would be a stunner - Marshall will be a Lion. The outside midfielder runs all day, offers neat foot skills and became a more damaging prospect as the season wore on. He won the CTL best on ground in the Grand Final to stake his claim as a first round talent. Sydney is the club expected to make the Lions pay up.
26. Sydney - Ollie Hannaford
GWV Rebels/Vic Country
FWD/DEF, 180cm
Hannaford has risen and risen as the season progressed, and is now in the mix on the first night. His sparkling performances as a medium forward is what has intrigued Sydney who have been closely linked to the Rebels goalkicker in the past few days.
In the mix: Matt Whitlock, Harrison Oliver
27. Richmond - Jasper Alger
Oakleigh Chargers/Vic Metro
FWD, 183cm
Alger's defensive presence and underrated leading ability for a small has clubs interested in this range. For Adem Yze's side - which is focused on pressuring the ball carrier - Alger can play a role early in the AFL. Suitors including the Dogs and Power early in the second round means the Tigers need to pounce here.
In the mix: Luke Trainor, Harrison Oliver
Round 2
28. TRADE: Geelong - Luke Trainor
Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro
DEF, 194cm
Trade: Richmond trades pick 24 for Geelong's future first-round pick
The Cats are one of a handful of clubs maintaining interest in Trainor despite concussion issues. He's been medically cleared for a career in the AFL and has alleviated club concerns in the past few weeks. Trainor's talent as an interceptor is undeniable; he reads the ball superbly, has a springy leap and kickstarts transition with smooth skills. Trainor is one of a handful of prospects the Cats are looking to trade in for.
29. Western Bulldogs - Harrison Oliver
Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro
DEF, 181cm
A classy ball-user balanced with gritty defensive instincts, Oliver will be the first small defender taken in the pool thanks to his offensive and defensive blend. He could play a lot of football early for a team like the Dogs.
30. West Coast - Hamish Davis
Claremont/Western Australia
FWD/MID, 190cm
Davis' WAFL exploits, which included four goals in a crunch final for Claremont, has given him a chance to find a home on the first night. His running power, speed and marking ability at 190cm is the full package for a half forward, but needs to re-work his kicking action to take the next step. West Coast is keen to add forward depth in this pool, and could settle on Davis if they don't select Berry. Both Sydney clubs have also shown interest in the Claremont gun.
31. TRADE North Melbourne - Noah Mraz
Dandenong Stingrays/Vic Country
DEF, 198cm
Trade: Essendon trades pick 28 for North Melbourne's future second round pick
A trade for this pick will likely be executed on the first night if Kako doesn't attract a very early bid. It gives Essendon more flexibility in 2025 (and further options to trade in on the first night), plus gets North back into the top half of the pool where they can target needs. Mraz is a quality key defender cruelled by injury this year, but his upside alongside Wil Dawson and Charlie Comben is enticing.
32. Port Adelaide - Ned Bowman
Norwood/South Australia
FWD, 186cm
Bowman can sit on heads. The high-flying forward has recruiters believing he could become an elite interceptor at the next level, but his goal-kicking penchant will see him drafted in the opening two rounds. Port is keen to add forward depth and may settle on the local product.
33. Fremantle - Angus Clarke
Glenelg/South Australia
DEF, 188cm
Clarke is linked to the Dockers at this pick, having met the club again post-combine. The competitive defender is a good size, can play on a range of forwards and offers some attacking versatility and was one of SA's better performers at the national carnival. His range is firmly entrenched in the second round.
34. St Kilda - Alex Dodson
Sturt/South Australia
RUC, 203cm
This would be a bit of a slide for Dodson who is linked to Richmond at the end of the first round. A skilful ruckman with an impressive basketball background, he may be the man to finally unleash Rowan Marshall as a ruck-forward.
35. Hawthorn - Thomas Sims
Northern Knights/Vic Metro
FWD, 199cm
Sims is the man for the Hawks at this pick - if he makes it through. Pairing Calsher Dear with a long-term partner is ideal for Sam Mitchell's team after another injury setback for Mitch Lewis. Sims runs hot and cold, but at 199cm his reach, booming kick and strong hands is a good package to develop.
36. Western Bulldogs - Hugh Boxsall
Claremont/Western Australia
MID, 188cm
A late rise for Boxshall could land him at the Dogs. He blitzed the state combine and is a running freak, covering the 2km in just over six minutes. Boxshall showed out for Claremont on the way to a Colts premiership, playing important minutes as an inside midfielder where his 188cm frame and clean hands are impressive.
37. Port Adelaide - Tom Gross
Oakleigh Chargers/Vic Metro
MID/FWD, 181cm
This is a bit of a slide for Gross, whose competitiveness and positional versatility have won admirers. He plays with grit and determination, getting the best out of himself and showing off impressive aerial exploits at half forward to boot.
38. GWS - Sam Toner
Stingrays/Vic Country
FWD, 193cm
What a rise this would be for Toner, who went from local footy to kicking bags of goals for the Stingrays this year. He remains a relative unknown with his limited exposure to the elite pathways. Other clubs including the Cats and Pies have registered interest so the Giants would need to swoop here.
39. Carlton - Harry O'Farrell
Calder Cannons/Vic Metro
DEF/FWD, 196cm
O'Farrell would be higher on boards if not for a wretched run with injury this season. Playing the majority of his year at APS level, the athletic tall needs to build size but offers versatility at either end and natural aerial ability. O'Farrell's father is the lawyer that got Patrick Cripps off his suspension on an error of law which delivered him his first Brownlow Medal. It's big shoes to fill at Ikon Park.
Round 3
40. Sydney - Riley Bice
Werribee VFL
DEF, 185cm
Bice could be the first mature-ager off the board on Thursday. A VFL premiership winner, his position at the next level looks to be off halfback where his foot skills and run are ultra-damaging. The Swans, Cats, and Dogs have all been linked.
41. BID: St Kilda - Lennox Hofmann (NGA)
Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro
DEF, 190cm
A bid for Hofmann could land a bit earlier after dominating the state combine. His blend of speed and intercepting prowess has caught rival clubs' attention, but the Saints have first dibs through their NGA. Hofmann is a lockdown defender with scope to expand his offensive game.
42. Geelong - Sam Davidson
Richmond VFL
FWD, 190cm
Davidson claimed the Fothergill-Round-Mitchell medal and will likely add to the lineage of winners to jump up to AFL level. The athletic 190cm forward kicks goals in a variety of ways, flies for his marks, and can play tall if needed. The Cats are keen, but the 22-year-old may not make it to this point.
43. Essendon - Archer Day-Wicks
Bendigo Pioneers/Vic Country
FWD, 186cm
Day-Wicks has flown under the radar this season. At his best, he boasts match-winning qualities in his aerial presence and goal nous on his left boot. He's played at a close-to-goal medium type and needs to expand his game to move further up the ground, but his raw talent is enough to warrant a national draft pick. Essendon interviewed the Bendigo product at the draft combine and remain linked to him late in the piece.
44. GWS - Jack Ough
GWV Rebels/Vic Country
MID, 194cm
Trade: St Kilda give picks 10 and 47 to GWS for picks 17, 18, and 21
The Giants move back into the draft here courtesy of the Saints and have midfield targets. Ough may be the best available, a tall midfielder who can move and play on the outside of stoppages if necessary. He had a huge end to his Rebels campaign and could settle on a wing at the next level.
45. BID: Carlton - Ben Camporeale (Father-son)
Glenelg/South Australia
MID, 186cm
Carlton is quietly confident that a bid doesn't come for Camporeale before their second selection, meaning they can take four picks in the national draft. Ben is the ball-winner, able to wrench the football out of contested situations and get it moving at all costs. He's no frills, but needs to improve his kicking to make it at the next level.
46. Western Bulldogs - Lachie Jaques
Geelong Falcons/Vic Country
DEF, 184cm
The Dogs are linked to a host of running defenders and could end up with two on draft night. Jaques is lightning quick, makes good decisions with the ball, and can play taller if needed. The Cats have been linked to the local product as well.
47. Port Adelaide - Josh Dolan
Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro
FWD, 177cm
Dolan has done enough as a busy small forward to attract a national draft selection. He's a proactive runner and disciplined pressure forward - it's traits that will make him an in-demand role player at the next level.
48. Collingwood - Charlie West
Woodville-West Torrens/South Australia
FWD, 195cm
West doesn't have the runs on the board of other talls, but his potential is enormous. He is one of the best contested marking key forwards in the pool, can chop out in the ruck, and embraces physicality. He's a long way from the finished product, but could in time be Collingwood's answer at full forward.
49. Essendon - Kayle Gerreyn
West Perth/Western Australia
FWD/RUC, 199cm
Gerreyn's season has been exceptional in the ruck, but recruiters don't see a future for him there, and his ability forward of the ball is relatively unknown. It makes him a speculative pick for clubs, but he has interest and earned a national combine invite. Gerreyn is light on his feet, an excellent ball user, and is already well developed physically which will interest Essendon as they go in a different direction under Matt Rosa.
50. Essendon - James Barrat
Bendigo Pioneers/Vic Country
DEF/FWD, 194cm
Barrat really came on in the second half of the season as a defender. He's slightly undersized to play as a genuine key defender, which is preventing him from garnering top 30 consideration despite impressive performances as a lockdown back and tagging midfielder. He went head to head with Harvey Langford against the Stingrays and held his own on-ball to show his versatility. Barrat is strong, aggressive, and physical.
51. BID: St Kilda - Adrian Cole (NGA)
Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro
DEF, 194cm
Cole is a stout defensive presence that could in time be the Josh Battle replacement for the Saints. They have first dibs through their NGA, and Cole is expected to attract a national draft bid after a season of rapid improvement. Adding 2024 selections likely means they usher Elwood Peckett to the rookie draft.
52. BID: Sydney - Joel Cochran (Academy)
Swans Academy/Allies
DEF/MID, 195cm
The Pies could bid on multiple prospects in this range, with Cochran's elite running capacity (he won the national combine 2km trial) an asset with his big frame. He's played as a midfielder and key defender at times and is the premier Swans Academy prospect this year. It isn't a clear-cut decision for the Swans if he does get bid on at this spot.
53. Collingwood - Will Hoare
Essendon VFL
DEF, 195cm
Hoare has emerged as a genuine consideration for clubs after starring as an intercept defender at VFL level in the back half of the year. He picks up the flight of the ball early, has confidence to fly for his marks, and was impossible to outmark at times. Collingwood is canvassing mature-age prospects late in the piece - Hoare is right in their sights.
54. GWS - Logan Smith (Academy)
Giants Academy/Allies
RUC, 204cm
If Smith doesn't get a bid, the Giants will take him with their final pick. He's a top-three ruck prospect this year with a massive work rate at 204cm. A Giants Academy graduate, it's very likely Smith lands at GWS in the national draft.
55. Geelong - Charlie Nicholls
Central District/South Australia
FWD, 197cm
A project key position player for the Cats to develop, Nicholls is long and rangy and deceptively quick off the mark. He kicks goals almost exclusively from lead-ups and needs to add size to become a contested marking threat. Nicholls has suitors in the Pies and Lions at this stage as well.
56. Brisbane - Floyd Burmeister
GWV Rebels/Vic Country
RUC/FWD, 199cm
There's a lot of untapped potential in Burmeister who turned his full attention to football from basketball this year. He's bouncy and physical which lends himself to rucking upside, but will start his career in the forward line. Brisbane will take a project tall late in the draft and Burmeister fits the billing.
57. Collingwood - Nathaniel Sulzberger
Sandringham Dragons/Allies
MID/FWD, 187cm
The top Tasmanian prospect this year, Sulzberger showed out for the Dragons all year. He projects to be a forward at the next level with some speed and tricks, but could also fall into the rookie draft on Friday.
58. North Melbourne - Josh Murphy
Murray Bushrangers/Allies
FWD, 190cm
Murphy is a bit of a smoky, but the path to success for the undersized key forward was laid out by Logan Morris last year. Murphy kicked bags of goals all year for the Bushrangers both on the lead and out of forward 50 congestion. He makes quick decisions and has natural forward nous.
59. Adelaide - Tyler Welsh (Father-son)
Adelaide/South Australia
FWD, 191cm
Adelaide will take Welsh with their second selection. A strong marking father-son prospect, his season has been full of ups and downs but will be given time to develop into a reliable key forward at AFL level.
60. Essendon - Jayden Nguyen (NGA)
Calder Cannons/Vic Metro
DEF/FWD, 178cm
Essendon is in a tricky spot with Nguyen, who they are keen to add via the cat-B rookie list. That would require him slipping down the order, but the Dons risk losing him if they pass on a selection as they can no longer match a bid. They could either trade this selection down the order, take a different prospect and evaluate their options if he gets bid on, or just take him here with their fourth selection. The dashing small finished on the podium of the CTL best and fairest after leading Calder to finals football.
61. Brisbane - Rhys Unwin
GWV Rebels/Vic Country
MID/FWD, 179cm
Unwin has speed to burn and hails from a region of country Victoria that the Lions continually draft from with great success. His disposal leaves a bit to be desired but you can't teach Unwin's athletic profile and footy smarts. The Lions have interest, but he may slide through to the rookie draft.
62. Gold Coast - Zak Johnson
Northern Knights/Vic Metro
MID/DEF, 185cm
The Suns may not use this pick if they can trade into the draft's first round, but Johnson looms as an option if they can't. He has some class, skill, and speed out of the back half but sometimes lacks the competitiveness of those around him.
63. BID: Hawthorn - Cody Anderson (NGA)
Eastern Ranges/Vic Metro
MID, 182cm
The Hawks have first claim to Anderson via their NGA and anticipate a late bid. He's a bull at the coalface, attacking the ball and man with reckless abandon. Outside of the stoppage is where he needs to improve his ball use and decision making.
64. Fremantle - Xavier Ivisic
Geelong Falcons/Vic Country
MID, 181cm
Ivisic captained the Falcons and exerted his authority through the middle all season. He hunts the ball with ferocity and offers intriguing upside with his clean hands and ability to get from contest to contest. The Dockers are likely to select a midfielder late if they don't claim one with their first-round selection and Ivisic is right in the mix.
65. Carlton - Lucas Camporeale (Father-Son)
Glenelg/South Australia
MID/DEF, 184cm
Camporeale will find a home at the Blues either with their final pick or via the rookie draft. He possesses courage and strong running patterns as a genuine wingman, going back with the flight of the ball regularly to intercept.
66. West Coast - Malakai Champion (NGA)
Subiaco/Western Australia
FWD, 172cm
There's a good chance West Coast usher Champion through the national draft and onto their cat-B rookie list. It gives them more flexibility with list spots, but the small forward should warrant consideration from teams with his crafty goalkicking exploits and ability to adapt to the WAFL level this season.
67. BID: Melbourne - Riak Andrew (NGA)
Dandenong Stingrays
DEF, 192cm
Melbourne infamously lost the rights to Mac but have first dibs on his younger brother. Riak is shorter but improved expeditiously as a lockdown key defender, including strong performances against the likes of Jobe Shanahan. He's defence-first and no-nonsense, and has been linked to the Pies and Cats. The Dees are a chance to let this slide through if he does command a bid, with one eye also to scooping up Ricky Mentha as a cat-B rookie.
68. Geelong - Lachie Voss
Sandringham Dragons
DEF, 199cm
Voss has intriguing upside as a 199cm key defender after really coming on for the Dragons late in the year. He can close space quickly and makes quick, safe decisions with the ball. Voss hasn't been on the radar of clubs after missing out last season, but the Cats have tracked his progress.
Round 5
69. North Melbourne - River Stevens
Geelong Falcons/Vic Country
FWD, 176cm
There's no guarantees made to Stevens that the father-son lands at North through the national draft, but he's quietly put together a strong campaign as an unselfish role player for the Falcons. He brings others into the game, tackles hard, and could carve out a role as a pressure forward at the next level.
70. Western Bulldogs - Cody Angove
Claremont/Western Australia
FWD, 182cm
Angove has some special traits in the forward 50, but also lacks the high-end speed and goal nous clubs look for. Instead, he's an intelligent leading small and crumbs packs superbly. It rounds out a collection of smaller selections for the Dogs.
71. Richmond - Phoenix Hargrave
South Adelaide/South Australia
MID, 181cm
Trading out selections gives the Tigers a late-round flyer. Hargrave has supreme contested ability and works hard, but also has knocks on his disposal. In a professional environment, his strength through the hips could allow him to flourish.
Every club's original picks and projected selections:
Adelaide: 4, 64, 78
- 4: Jagga Smith
- 59: Tyler Welsh (Father-son)
Brisbane: 27, 34, 42, 43, 49, 58
- 5: Levi Ashcroft (Father-son)
- 25: Sam Marshall
- 56: Floyd Burmeister
- 61: Rhys Unwin
Carlton: 3, 38, 63, 68, 69, 71
- 3: Sid Draper
- 39: Harry O'Farrell
- 45: Ben Camporeale (Father-son)
- 65: Lucas Camporeale (Father-son)
Collingwood: 52, 55, 60, 66, 82
- 48: Charlie West
- 53: Will Hoare
- 57: Nathaniel Sulzberger
Essendon: 28, 31, 40, 46, 53, 54, 65
- 13: Isaac Kako (NGA)
- 43: Archer Day-Wicks
- 49: Kayle Gerreyn
- 50: James Barrat
- 60: Jayden Nguyen (NGA)
Fremantle: 14, 30, 67, 81, 89
- 17: Joe Berry
- 33: Angus Clarke
- 64: Xavier Ivisic
Geelong: 45, 57, 74, 84
- 28: Luke Trainor
- 42: Sam Davidson
- 55: Charlie Nicholls
- 68: Lachie Voss
Gold Coast: 39, 41, 51, 61
- 8: Leo Lombard (Academy)
- 62: Zak Johnson
GWS: 15, 16, 21, 37, 56, 73
- 10: Alix Tauru
- 38: Sam Toner
- 44: Jack Ough
- 54: Logan Smith (Academy)
Hawthorn: 33, 70, 75
- 33: Thomas Sims
- 63: Cody Anderson (NGA)
Melbourne: 5, 9, 79
- 6: Harvey Langford
- 11: Bo Allan
- 67: Riak Andrew (NGA)
North Melbourne: 2, 62, 76, 86
- 2: Finn O'Sullivan
- 31: Noah Mraz
- 58: Josh Murphy
- 69: River Stevens (Father-son)
Port Adelaide: 13, 29, 36, 50
- 16: Jack Whitlock
- 32: Ned Bowman
- 37: Tom Gross
- 47: Josh Dolan
Richmond: 1, 6, 10, 11, 18, 20, 23, 24
- 1: Sam Lalor
- 7: Josh Smillie
- 12: Jobe Shanahan
- 14: Xavier Lindsay
- 21: Jesse Dattoli
- 27: Jasper Alger
- 71: Phoenix Hargrave
St Kilda: 7, 8, 32, 47, 80, 88
- 9: Tobie Travaglia
- 18: Murphy Reid
- 19: Harry Armstrong
- 24: Christian Moraes
- 34: Alex Dodson
- 41: Lennox Hofmann (NGA)
- 51: Adrian Cole (NGA)
Sydney: 19, 22, 44, 59, 85, 91
- 22: Jonty Faull
- 26: Ollie Hannaford
- 40: Riley Bice
- 52: Joel Cohran (Academy)
West Coast: 12, 26, 72, 77, 87, 92
- 15: Taj Hotton
- 23: Matt Whitlock
- 30: Hamish Davis
- 66: Malakai Champion (NGA)
Western Bulldogs: 17, 25, 35, 48, 83, 90
- 20: Cooper Hynes
- 29: Harrison Oliver
- 36: Hugh Boxshall
- 46: Lachie Jaques
- 70: Cody Angove