The AFL draft landscape has shifted significantly following a crucial weekend of combine testing and club interviews. With just six weeks until the draft nights of November 20 and 21, the top prospects have solidified their positions, while others have made a late push up the rankings.
Richmond holds the coveted number one pick, and the Tigers are still deciding between several talented youngsters. Jagga Smith, the creative on-baller, remains in the mix after impressing at the combine with his speed and agility. Sid Draper, the powerful midfielder, also remains in contention despite not testing due to a minor back complaint.
Levi Ashcroft, the Brisbane Father-Son prospect, has finished the year strongly, winning his third-straight Talent League premiership. Finn O’Sullivan, the athletic midfielder, has also boosted his stocks with elite results in agility and jumping tests.
Leo Lombard, the Gold Coast Academy graduate, has game-breaking qualities, while Sam Lalor, the powerful midfielder, is firmly in the mix for Richmond’s top pick. Xavier Lindsay, the Gippsland Power captain, has an impressive endurance base, and Josh Smillie, the Eastern Ranges midfielder, boasts size, strength, and skill.
Tobie Travaglia, the Bendigo Pioneers defender, has a high motor and competitiveness, making him a likely top-15 pick. Harvey Langford, the Dandenong Stingrays midfielder, has concerns over his athletic profile, but his clean hands and contested marking ability will translate well to the AFL.
Harry Armstrong, the Sandringham Dragons forward, has fans in the top 10, while Isaac Kako, the Essendon NGA prospect, is an exciting small forward with excellent forward craft. Alix Tauru, the Gippsland Power tall, has made a late surge up the rankings with his impressive combine results.
The rest of the top 30 is filled with talented prospects, including Joe Berry, the Murray Bushrangers forward, Bo Allan, the Peel Thunder defender, and Jobe Shanahan, the Bendigo Pioneers forward. The draft is shaping up to be one of the deepest in recent memory, with plenty of clubs set to benefit from the talent on offer.
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