OVER the past few weeks, Draft Central launched its brand new series of pocket podcasts, a collection of short-form discussions which narrow in on a range of topics heading into the 2020 AFL Draft. In the next edition, Chief Editor Peter Williams again sat down with AFL Draft Editor Michael Alvaro to compare and contrast the best players who measure up at under 175cm, available in this year’s AFL Draft pool.

The saying goes ‘if you’re good enough, you’re big enough’, and the players covered in this pocket podcast have certainly been out to prove as much. In an age where prototype athletes and strong-bodied prospects are perhaps more in-vogue than natural footballers outside of that mould, players below 175cm are often forced to showcase at least one elite trait; whether it be speed, defensive pressure, disposal efficiency, or decision making. Smaller players are often among the most smart and skilful afield, with the bunch mentioned here fitting that description.

To listen to the discussion in full, click here.

Here are pocket profiles on some of the players mentioned:
(Click their names highlighted in red for full draft profiles)

Jake Bowey (Sandringham Dragons)
Outside Midfielder/Forward
12/09/2002 | 175cm | 67kg

An outside midfielder who locked down the wing position for Sandringham last year. Is a terrific athlete across the board and possesses wickedly quick skills. May start out as a small forward at the next level as he is still quite light, while boasting the defensive pressure and smarts to do so.

Draft Range: 15-35

Corey Durdin (Central District)
Small Forward/Midfielder
14/04/2002 | 173cm | 73kg

A midfielder at junior level who has transitioned to the small forward role of late. Has two years of senior SANFL experience and is a formidable ground level player who attacks the ball with vigour. Inside 50, his turn of speed, footy IQ, defensive pressure, and work-rate come to the fore.

Draft Range: 25-40

Errol Gulden (Sydney Swans Academy)
Outside Midfielder/Small Utility
18/07/2002 | 175cm | 75kg

One of two first round candidates out of the Swans Academy, Gulden is a high-level performer no matter the competition. He finds buckets of the ball and is particularly dangerous by foot on the attack, plying his trade mostly on the wing or at half-forward, where he will likely play at the elite level.

Draft Range: 15-30

Phoenix Spicer (South Adelaide)
Outside Midfielder/Small Forward
30/01/2002 | 173cm | 64kg

Perhaps the lightest and most raw prospect of the lot, but also one of the most exciting. Gained Reserves experience after lighting up the Under 18s with his speed and attacking intent on the outside, while also finding the goals regularly. A prospect with massive upside overall and development left.

Draft Range: 40+

Joel Western (Claremont)
Midfielder/Small Forward
12/10/2002 | 172cm | 68kg

Fremantle Next Generation Academy prospect who is elite athletically and provides a spark out of the middle. May not immediately yield midfield time but is just as capable inside 50 where his clean hands and skills help him stand out. Also Claremont’s Colts captain and a 2019 premiership player.

Draft Range: 25-40

>> Power Rankings: November Update

Past Episodes:

Best midfielders over 190cm
Logan McDonald vs. Jamarra Ugle-Hagan
Best academy and father-son hauls
Brayden Cook vs. Conor Stone
Key defenders kicking comparison
Offence from defence
Denver Grainger-Barras vs. Heath Chapman
The top non-aligned midfielders