STRENGTHS:

+ Effort
+ Consistency
+ Production
+ Rebounding
+ Work rate

IMPROVEMENTS:

- Composure
- Kicking consistency

Warburton is a rebound running machine off half-back, where he arguably played his best footy in 2024. While he didn't set the world alight at the National Draft Combine, his style of play presents a strong speed-endurance mix and constant motion. Whether chasing up his own kick-ins, overlapping to receive, or carrying the ball with dare, Warburton offers plenty of drive out of the backline in repeat bursts.

The 185cm prospect can hardly be faulted for effort. His work rate and intensity are also evident when rolling through midfield. There, he is a little more handball happy than in defence where his main distributive method is by foot. In both roles, Warburton is a high production player who can rack up possessions in chains and combine with teammates on the way forward. It's why often times he will quite easily end up with 25-30 disposals.

Warburton's surge style and work rate lend to his consistent output. He is regarded as a professional athlete who leaves no stone unturned in his preparation, and that translates to his performance on-field. Playing in such a high gear sometimes compromises his composure and efficiency, though. Warburton is capable of kicking neatly in the short range, or penetrating long, but is prone to dump kicking or producing clangers from time to time.

During preseason, Warburton was also looking to add some strings to his bow. Marking and second efforts were among them, and he can still boost his numbers having averaged 2.4 marks and 1.4 tackles at Coates Talent League level this year. A lot of his best work and most impactful plays are performed on the way forward, demanding possession and looking to carve out transitions. The extra elements will round out his game.