Well draft time is upon us. It’s certainly been a big year – I’ve spent just shy of 300 hours watching football this season and it is one of the most even drafts for a long time. The depth of the 2016 draft is a big strength and clubs with multiple late picks should be able to unearth gems in the years to come.

MATT BALMER’S 2016 AFL DRAFT RANKINGS

Follow the draft along live via Twitter on Friday @AFLDraftCentral , we will be live at the Hordern Pavilion, Sydney to take you through what should be a cracking night.

Thanks for following right throughout the year.

Just like on draft night – All passes have been removed from my Phantom Draft.

If you have any questions in the lead up to the draft, you can send me a tweet @MattBalmer7. 

 

Pick 1 ESSENDON- Andrew McGrath

Small Defender/Inside Midfielder (Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro)

02/06/1998 | 177.4cm | 76.7kg

Scouting notes: Exciting rebounder from defence. Agile runner with an elite athletics background. Not afraid to take the game on- with that comes his kicking which can be shaky at stages when he tries to break the game open. Can win his own ball on the inside too with him gaining more possessions in the midfield than Hugh McCluggage in 2016. Depth of kicking over 50m a question mark, but McGrath gives you 15m in run and a 40m kick to your advantage. Excellent leadership skills. Can also play last line of defence and shut down an opponent as indicated by blanketing Ben Ainsworth & Jaidyn Stephenson this season.

In the mix: Some clubs as late as today have absolutely no idea what is going on. Some think McCluggage, others say McGrath with more of a gut feel than a sure thing. Setterfield did meet with the Bombers early in the piece, but I think this interest probably doesn’t see them bid.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – ANDREW MCGRATH

 

Pick 2 GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY – Tim Taranto

General Forward/Inside Midfielder (Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro)

28/01/1998 | 185.6cm | 84.1kg

Scouting notes: Athletic forward that can play through the midfield. Very good in traffic, helped by his basketball background. Willing to give the ball off to teammates in better positions. Strong overhead mark means he has the ability to play deeper inside 50, where he has plenty of smarts and can hit the scoreboard. Has plenty of shots on goal.

In the mix: Tim Taranto met with the Giants two weeks ago and whilst it may have just been a general chat – The gut feel against says it will be Taranto picked ahead of Ainsworth. McGrath is the Giants man if Bombers overlook him at Pick 1.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – TIM TARANTO

 

Pick 3 BRISBANE LIONS- Hugh McCluggage

Balanced Midfielder (North Ballarat Rebels/Vic Country)

03/03/1998 | 185.6cm | 75.9kg

Scouting notes: Appears like Scott Pendlebury in traffic, making everything appear in slow motion. Clears the ball with ease via quick hands or off his preferred right boot. A few people questioning his contested ball winning abilities, but averaged 20 disposals in the Under 18 Championships (43 per cent contested). McCluggage’s contested numbers are similar at TAC Cup level and has been able to deal with the extra attention from opponents.

In the mix: Ben Ainsworth recently declared his love for the Lions in a recent article with AFL.com.au’s Cal Twomey – but would the Lions pass up Hugh McCluggage if available here? Don’t expect the Lions to bid on Gold Coast academy selection Jack Bowes.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – HUGH MCCLUGGAGE

 

Pick 4 GOLD COAST SUNS – Ben Ainsworth

Small Forward/Inside Midfielder (Gippsland Power/Vic Country)

10/02/1998 | 178.0cm | 76.2kg

Scouting notes: Strong overhead mark and has the ability to change a game in 10 minutes. An interupted season with injury and suspension, but has had more midfield time in recent months. Damaging inside 50 but can be a bit goal hungry at stages. Played his best games on the inside against South Australia, but won some ‘junk time’ possessions when he went into the midfield later in the season for Gippsland against weak opposition.

In the mix: Sam Petrevski-Seton would be right in the Suns zone if things fall another way early. Shouldn’t be any go home factors with the talented small forward Ainsworth.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – BEN AINSWORTH

 

Pick 5 GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY – Will Setterfield (Match bid)

Inside Midfielder (Sandringham Dragons/NSW-ACT)

05/02/1998 | 189.4cm | 79.7kg

Scouting notes: Tall midfielder who is still finding his feet as to where he best plays his football. Was down on form in the championships, carrying a foot niggle. Can play in multiple positions, but looks best forward of centre. Needs some consistency as can float in and out of games. GWS academy member.

In the mix: Shouldn’t be any issues with the Giants matching Setterfield’s bid here. Essendon have considered him at 1 – but appear to go another direction.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – WILL SETTERFIELD

 

Pick 6 CARLTON – Sam Petrevski-Seton

Balanced Midfielder (Claremont/Western Australia)

19/02/1998 | 179.7cm | 72.7kg

Scouting notes: Exciting midfielder who has the ability to use either side of his body. Looked a touch underdone in the championships returning from hamstring issues. Not a noted huge disposal winner, but does have x-factor about him. Isn’t a midfielder that hits the scoreboard with just one goal for Claremont this season.

In the mix: The Blues would have no hesitation taking Taranto if he slid here. Scrimshaw is the other name they are considering. Rumours swirled about Will Hayward a few weeks ago, but they’ve died down.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – SAM PETREVSKI-SETON

 

Pick 7 GOLD COAST SUNS  – Griffin Logue

Key Position Defender (Swan Districts/Western Australia)

13/04/1998 | 191.0cm | 93.9kg

Scouting notes: Strong lockdown defender who doesn’t lose too many one-on-ones. Rowing background at school has helped his physic, with a strong upper body enabling to outmuscle his opponents. Pinch hit in the ruck in the final match for WA and kicks the ball well off his left foot.

In the mix: Regardless of how the Blues use their first pick – It’s believed Gold Coast will stick with Griffin Logue at Pick 7. Scrimshaw may be considered if the top five if different to the above.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – GRIFFIN LOGUE

 

Pick 8 FREMANTLE  – Jack Scrimshaw

Medium Defender (Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro)

04/09/1998 | 193.1cm | 83.7kg

Scouting notes: Hybrid defender that is better playing small than tall. Nice long left boot, where he looks best at home across the half back flank. At stages has pushed onto a wing, which might be his finishing position thanks to a strong disposal efficiency. Has had multiple injuries in the last 18 months so will need to stay fit for the rest of the season to show clubs he’s over them. His ability to weave through traffic coming out of half back is elite.

In the mix: Griffin Logue is one that will come under the Dockers’ consideration. But he could be off the board. They’d be very happy to snare local Sam Petrevki-Seton, whilst Jy Simpkin or Will Brodie could be another option.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – JACK SCRIMSHAW

 

Pick 9  GOLD COAST SUNS – Jy Simpkin

Small Forward (Murray Bushrangers/Vic Country)

05/03/1998 | 181.7cm | 74.7kg

Scouting notes: Crafty small forward who burst onto the scene with seven goals in six Under 18 championship games in 2015. Knows where the goals are- but does he become a full time mid? Broke his leg at school football earlier in the season.

In the mix: Suns would snap up Logue here if available. They’ve also had some interest in Will Hayward but Jy Simpkin seems a logical selection.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – JY SIMPKIN

 

Pick 10 GOLD COAST SUNS – Jack Bowes (Match bid)

Balanced Midfielder (Cairns/Queensland)

26/01/1998 | 187.0cm | 77.7kg

Scouting notes: Silky smooth midfielder who doesn’t waste too many of his disposals. Moves well through traffic, willing to pump the ball long inside 50. Was a slow starter for the Allies but got better with each game in division one. Gold Coast Academy member. Did not look out of place playing in the NEAFL.

In the mix: If you’re telling me that Jack Bowes is the tenth best player in this draft pool – you clearly haven’t seen enough Under 18 football. Under the table deals or whatever it is – Gold Coast are getting a gem at this selection for little price.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – JACK BOWES

 

Pick 11 SYDNEY – Will Brodie

Inside Midfielder (Murray Bushrangers/Vic Country)

23/08/1998 | 188.0cm | 82.4kg

Scouting notes: Strong inside midfielder, one of the best clearance players in the draft. Goes in hard at the ball, can’t see him being anything less than a 200 game AFL footballer. Real professional, could step into an AFL team in Round One next season. Kicking has improved from earlier in the season.

In the mix: Jy Simpkin and Griffin Logue both will be high on the Swans want list – But both could be off the board.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – WILL BRODIE

 

Pick 12 GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY – Harry Perryman (Match bid)

Outside Midfielder (Collingullie-GP/NSW-ACT)

19/12/1998 | 183.9cm | 79.4kg

Scouting notes: Good decision maker, reads the play well. Didn’t look out of place off the half back flank throughout the championships. Kicks on both feet, ideally will transition into the midfield. Lacks speed that some of the other midfielders have. GWS Academy member.

In the mix: Despite Isaac Cumming bolting- GWS shouldn’t overlook the composed Perryman here.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – HARRY PERRYMAN

 

Pick 13 NORTH MELBOURNE  – Oliver Florent

Outside Midfielder (Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro)

22/07/1998 | 182.0cm | 74.4kg

Scouting notes: Exciting half forward/outside midfielder. In his usual eye catching orange boots, Florent has playing of X-Factor around the ball inside 50. Liked his work last year for Sandringham and has continued that into this season. Outside midfielder who is a capable overhead mark. A good kick around the ground, but does have the ability to shank the odd kick on the run. Looks likely to start his AFL career as a half forward and push onto a wing.

In the mix: Oliver Florent seems the logical pick for the Roos. North Melbourne visited Cedric Cox in Halls Creek recently and if they really want him – they’ll need to take him here.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – OLIVER FLORENT

 

Pick 14 WEST COAST EAGELS – Jarrod Berry

Medium Utility (North Ballarat Rebels/Vic Country)

05/02/1998 | 191.0cm | 81.8kg

Scouting notes: Outstanding leader that can play in multiple roles. Kicking can be a bit off at times and has had a few injuries throughout 2016. For me I think he was at his best finishing the season spending time inside 50.

In the mix: West Coast could throw a draft shock speaking with Western Jet Daniel Venables today. They’ve also been linked with two Western Australians Sam Powell-Pepper and Cedric Cox. Ruckman Tim English would be available if they deem him worthy.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – JARROD BERRY

 

Pick 15 ADELAIDE – Isaac Cumming (Bid NOT matched by GWS)

Medium Defender (Broken Hill/NSW-ACT)

11/08/1998 | 184.2cm | 73.8kg

Scouting notes: Rebounding defender who had some strong moments in the NAB AFL All Stars contest. A good ball user who is usually composed taking the ball forward.

In the mix: Cumming was a late invite to the draft and it is the Crows that seem most interested. They were interested in running half back Cedric Cox, but may have settled for another in Cumming instead. Would GWS match? Will Hayward the likely player if GWS do match.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – ISAAC CUMMING

 

Pick 16 PORT ADELAIDE – Daniel Venables

General Forward/Inside Midfielder (Western Jets/Vic Metro)

19/11/1998 | 185.2cm | 82.1kg

Scouting notes: Aggressive midfielder who can break through opposition tackles. Powerful burst from a stoppage and can hit the scoreboard. Yet to see a full complete game from him, as he’ll flash in and out of games.

In the mix: Will Hayward should slip through to Port- But would they take him and the likely Pick 18 in Todd Marshall? They’ve been big fans of Witherden throughout the year.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – DANIEL VENABLES

 

Pick 17  BRISBANE LIONS- Alex Witherden

Medium Defender (Geelong Falcons/Vic Country)

10/09/1998 | 186.2cm | 80.0kg

Scouting notes: Rebounding defender who is usually a reliable kick. Vision is superb and moves well in traffic. Can play through the midfield and up forward. Broke his leg at school footy earlier in the season.

In the mix: A Victoria should drift here to the Lions’ selection. Berry would be good if he’s still available, while Jordan Gallucci’s speed could catch their eye.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – ALEX WITHERDEN

 

Pick 18 PORT ADELAIDE – Todd Marshall

Key Position Forward (Murray Bushrangers/NSW-ACT)

08/10/1998 | 196.6cm | 85.9kg

Scouting notes: Athletic tall that has a strong pair of dukes. Still a bit raw after only returning to AFL after two winters in the UK playing cricket. Set shot goalkicking routine needs some work to stop him hooking the ball across his leg at times. Has only shown patches so far in 2016.

In the mix: Port visited Marshall at his home last week and the major belief is that they take him here.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – TODD MARSHALL

 

Pick 19 WESTERN BULLDOGS  – Cedric Cox

Outside Midfielder (North Ballarat Rebels/Vic Country)

19/08/1997 | 181.1cm | 78.6kg

Scouting notes: Neat outside midfielder who can play at both ends of the ground. Looks best suited to half-back, where he can use his speed to burn off his opponents. Is a dual footed kicker and is willing to use both his left and right foot in any situation.

In the mix: The Bulldogs would like Marshall but he is off the board. They visited Cedric Cox up in Halls Creek earlier this month and he would be against the odds to last to their next pick so will need to pull the trigger here.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – CEDRIC COX

 

Pick 20 SYDNEY  – Brennan Cox

Key Position Defender/Forward (Woodville-West Torrens/South Australia)

13/08/1998 | 192.6cm | 91.6kg

Scouting notes: Won All Australian honours playing in defence for South Australia. Tested well for speed, but can look slow lumbering around the ground at stages throughout games. Played both forward and back through 2016, but likely to begin in the backline.

In the mix: The Swans have always been in the mix for a defender with Luke Ryan linked early but sources tell me they visited SA recently and that Cox will be their man.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – BRENNAN COX

—SECOND ROUND —

Pick 21 ESSENDON – Tim English

Ruckman (South Fremantle/Western Australia)

10/08/1997 | 204.7cm | 89.5kg

Scouting notes: Tall ruckman who uses his strong leap in the ruck contests. Only averaged 13 disposals through the championships, but showed plenty with his ability to find and dispose of the ball well off his right boot. Could mount a case that his kicking is better than some of the midfielders in the draft. May warrant a Top ten pick on draft night.

In the mix: Jordan Gallucci is available and probably more of a likely target- but it’s hard to overlook talented ruckman Tim English. Clubs might regret the decision in time if they overlook him.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – TIM ENGLISH

 

Pick 22 BRISBANE LIONS – Jordan Ridley

General Defender (Oakleigh Chargers/Vic Metro)

20/10/1998 | 191.9cm | 79.7kg

Scouting notes: Rebounding defender who is composed with the ball in hand. Can push up further onto a wing and is capable overhead. Build strongly below his waist, but should be able to build that physic in his upper body with a few preseasons under his belt.

In the mix: Lions kept tabs on Brennan Cox and may swoop if available. They’ll look for a defender if possible and it’s not entirely out of the question that Elliot Himmelberg is picked.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – JORDAN RIDLEY

 

Pick 23 BRISBANE LIONS – Jack Graham

Inside Midfielder (North Adelaide/South Australia)

25/02/1998 | 180.3cm | 81.1kg

Scouting notes: Inside midfielder who is built like a ‘man-child.’ Disposal is shaky by foot, but wins the contested ball and tackles hard.

In the mix: A lot of whispers that Jack Graham is the one they like with the Lions likely not to draft a West Australian.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – JACK GRAHAM

 

Pick 24  ST KILDA – Jordan Gallucci

Outside Midfielder/Medium Defender (Eastern Ranges/Vic Metro)

04/05/1998 | 180.0cm | 77.5kg

Scouting notes: Explosive midfielder whose kicking can be hot and cold. Has plenty of zip at the contest, but just where does he play his best football? Is willing to use either foot to take the ball inside 50. Strong leadership skills as indicated by being selected as co-captain of the Vic Metro side.

In the mix: If Gallucci is off the board, I’d expect them to look at Sam Powell-Pepper. Forward Josh Battle might be considered- but do the Saints need another 3rd tall?

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – JORDAN GALLUCCI

 

Pick 25 GOLD COAST SUNS – Brad Scheer (Matched bid)

Inside Midfielder (Palm Beach/Queensland)

31/08/1998 | 183.2cm | 83.7kg

Scouting notes: Tough inside midfielder who just gets the job done with plenty of clearances. His strong contested work is his strength and he won the Allies the match with a snap deep in the pocket (Video can be found here). Good runner around the ground, probably a late first round or second round bid for the Gold Coast academy member.

In the mix: If Gold Coast get a bid on Scheer in the second round, it would be a surprise to see them pass on him.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – BRAD SCHEER

 

Pick 26 GEELONG – Josh Battle

General Forward (Dandenong Stingrays/Vic Country)

01/09/1998 | 192.0cm | 88.5kg

Scouting notes: Superb footy IQ and a great endurance base helps him get up the ground. Has the ability to change a game quickly with bursts of goals. Set shot routine is great and he’ll kick the ball through whether he’s 20m or 50m out. Solid mark overhead, but unlikely to play as the number one tall at AFL level. Year 11 boy too, so will need to complete school next year.

In the mix: Could Geelong take Tom Stewart here to avoid possibly missing out on him later? Geelong would’ve liked speed off half back but both Cedric Cox and Isaac Cumming are drafted already.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – JOSH BATTLE

 

Pick 27 CARLTON – Will Hayward

Medium forward (North Adelaide/South Australia)

26/10/1998 | 184.7cm | 76.6kg

Scouting notes: Medium forward who plays tall. His marking is outstanding and good in one-on-one contests for his size. Booted nine in the SANFL Under 18s in the finals. Not a big ball winner, but leads well and marks the ball well overhead or down below his knees. Kicked eight goals in the Under 18 championships, but didn’t earn a lot of credit for his craft.

In the mix: Three weeks ago the talk was Hayward could be the Blues’ selection at Pick 5- But if the cards fall other ways for the two interested SA clubs he could get this low. Has a Carlton connection with his sister currently dating Blue Sam Kerridge.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – WILL HAYWARD

 

Pick 28 WESTERN BULLDOGS – Josh Williams (Bid NOT matched from Gold Coast)

Outside Midfielder (Surfers Paradise/Queensland)

12/06/1997 | 188.7cm | 73.3kg

Scouting notes: Lightning quick outside midfielder who impressed with bursts of speed- including a 80m run down the wing in the U18 Championships match on the Gold Coast. Does need work on endurance, but his eye catching runs appeal.

In the mix: The Bulldogs may look to add some extra speed and have shown interest in Williams – But he is unlikely to get to their next pick. Ben Long may be another who they could look at, whilst if the Bulldogs are spooked by Melbourne they could make an early call on St Kevin’s College lively forward Oliver Hanrahan.

 

Pick 29 RICHMOND – Sam Powell-Pepper

Inside Midfielder (East Perth/Western Australia)

08/01/1998 | 186.5cm | 90.2kg

Scouting notes: Powerful midfielder who wins the clearances and tackles in hard. His decision making and kicking can be questionable at times and can just bang the ball onto his boot. Looks likely to play across half forward and through the centre- rather than playing off half back.

In the mix: Elliot Himmelberg seems the most likely selection for the Tigers- But if St Kilda overlook Powell-Pepper he may be too hard for the Tigers to overlook.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – SAM POWELL-PEPPER

 

Pick 30 COLLINGWOOD – Josh Rotham

Medium Defender (West Perth/Western Australia)

25/02/1998 | 191.9cm | 77.4kg

Scouting notes: Hybrid defender who has played both tall and small this season. Against VFL opposition for the AFL Academy he was undersized playing key back, but looked best in the championships further up the ground, wonder if he becomes a midfielder in the future? Strong mark who got better as the championships went on and is one of the top handful of kicks in this draft pool.

In the mix: Elliot Himmelberg is another tall that might take the Pies fancy, whilst exciting forward Shai Bolton might be hard to ignore.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – JOSH ROTHAM

 

Pick 31 ESSENDON – Kobe Mutch (Bid NOT matched from GWS)

Balanced Midfielder (Bendigo Pioneers/NSW-ACT)

18/03/1998 | 186.1cm | 83.6kg

Scouting notes: A balanced midfielder who has improved his contested possession work this season. Mutch has gone from an outside midfielder, to one that has spent a lot more time on the inside. By the numbers his season has been superb, but he needs to work on his hurt factor with disposal. Kicks well on both feet. GWS Academy member.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – KOBE MUTCH

 

Pick 32 PORT ADELAIDE – Dylan Clarke

Inside Midfielder (Eastern Ranges/Vic Metro)

06/09/1998 | 185.7cm | 83.4kg

Scouting notes: Strong inside midfielder who crashed in hard and wins the clearances. Kicking technique needs some work and it has seen him kick at under 50 per cent in the TAC Cup this season.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – DYLAN CLARKE

 

Pick 33 PORT ADELAIDE -Luke Ryan

General Defender (Coburg/VFL)

06/02/1996 | 185.7cm | 82.9kg

Scouting notes: General defender who is a big chance to be drafted in the first round. Appears skinny when watching but is built enough in defence. Mostly collects his possessions uncontested but can intercept and mark the ball.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – LUKE RYAN

 

Pick 34 COLLINGWOOD – Callum Brown (North Melbourne Bid)

Inside Midfielder/Small Forward (Eastern Ranges/Vic Metro)

27/04/1998 | 177.0cm | 72.2kg

Scouting notes: Father/Son prospect for the Pies as the son of Gavin. He is just a pure hard nut who gives his all. An inside midfielder/small forward who needs to work on his ball use, but his pressure around the contest is top notch.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – CALLUM BROWN

 

Pick 35 GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY – Harrison Macreadie

Key Position Defender (Henty/NSW-ACT)

11/04/1998 | 195.5cm | 90.9kg

Scouting notes: Tall Defender that has the ability to push further up the ground. Strong rebounder, intercept marking was his strength in 2015 – but have been scarce in 2016. His form in NEAFL has still be solid and I would be very very surprised if GWS academy member Macreadie was not at the Giants, after they had a part in him moving schools.

 

Pick 36 NORTH MELBOURNE – Elliot Himmelberg

Key Position Defender (Redland/Queensland)

17/09/1998 | 196.1cm | 89.2kg

Scouting notes: Key Position Defender who missed a large chunk of the season with a broken leg. Brother of GWS’ Harry – He has played forward and through the ruck at times. Not eligible to be selected for the Brisbane Lions academy.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – ELLIOT HIMMELBERG

 

Pick 37 NORTH MELBOURNE – Zac Fisher

Inside Midfielder (Perth/Western Australia)

15/06/1998 | 175.2cm | 70.3kg

Scouting notes: Quick left footed inside midfielder who hasn’t been talked about a lot. Wins the contested ball despite his light frame and his quick hands allow him to run and spread once he gets rid of the ball.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – ZAC FISHER

 

Pick 38 WEST COAST EAGLES – Shai Bolton

Outside midfielder (South Fremantle/Western Australia)

8/12/1998 | 174.7cm | 68.8kg

Scouting notes: Electric speed and an elite side step, the Flashy West Australian will end up with one of the best highlight packages in this years draft crop. Consistency is his biggest issue and with flash in and out of a contest. At times can just bang the ball on his boot without looking.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – SHAI BOLTON

 

Pick 39 FREMANTLE – Patrick Kerr

Key Position Forward (Oakleigh Chargers/Vic Metro)

31/07/1998 | 193.4cm | 93.2kg

Scouting notes: Strong overhead mark, who has worked on his mobility at ground level but it was still one of the worst at the Combine. Speed over first 10 metres is one of the best out of all the key forwards and gets distance between himself and defenders. Speaks exceptionally well and will interview well. When he’s on, he’s hard to stop.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – PATRICK KERR

 

Pick 40 ST KILDA – Jack Maibaum

Key Position Defender (Eastern Ranges/Vic Metro)

27/03/1998 | 191.9cm | 91.0kg

Scouting notes: Defender who has pinched hit up forward at stages for Eastern Ranges & Melbourne Grammar. Was a rock in defence for Vic Metro, winning All Australian honours. Is strong in one-on-one contests.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – JACK MAIBAUM

 

Pick 41 GEELONG – Tom Stewart

Medium defender (Geelong/VFL)

15/03/1993 | 187.7cm | 91.6kg

Scouting notes: VFL defender who came second in Geelong’s B &F as well as being named in the VFL team of the year. Is an athletic tall that can play tall or small. Stewart reads the play well and looms as a good third tall option at AFL level.

 

Pick 42 FREMANTLE – Oscar McInerney
Ruckman (Casey Scorpions/VFL)

10/07/1994 | 204.0cm | 103.6kg

Scouting notes: Ruckman who worked his way up from the VFL development league into Casey’s main team that made the VFL Grand Final. Is very clean below his knees and marks the ball well. Doesn’t win a lot of the ball around the ground, but there is a lot to work with here.

—THIRD ROUND—

Pick 43 ESSENDON – Willem Drew

Inside Midfielder (North Ballarat Rebels/Vic Country)

01/10/1998 | 188.0cm | 79.3kg

Scouting notes: Strong contested ball winner that seems destined to be picked in the second or third round. Is a touch slow, so can’t burst from the stoppages and Drew will also hack the ball out of stoppages at times. His strong contested ball winning efforts are outstanding where he averaged 14 contested possessions, seven tackles and seven clearances per game.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – WILLEM DREW

 

Pick 44 GEELONG – Ben Long

Small utility (St Marys/Footscray/ Northern Territory)

21/08/1997 | 181.3cm | 72.9kg

Scouting notes: Long is a versatile small who has played multiple positions over the last few seasons and it was only when he went forward for Foostracy in the VFL did he make an impact. Has a great goal sense, booting six goals in a VFL final. Did a job on Ben Ainsworth for Allies in U18 Champs showing he can play at both ends.

 

Pick 45 ADELAIDE – Josh Begley

Inside Midfielder/General Forward (Eastern Ranges/Vic Metro)

03/07/1998 | 185.5cm | 96.1kg

Scouting notes: Drafted into the Eastern Ranges squad after strong performances in local footy. Booted a bag on debut for Eastern and moved into the midfield after beginning deep forward. Coming off no preseason, his testing results at the combine were gutsy. Possible second rounder.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – JOSH BEGLEY

 

Pick 46 SYDNEY – Taylin Duman

General utility (Oakleigh Chargers/Vic Metro)

18/04/1998 | 191.8cm | 76.6kg

Scouting notes: Primary a half back, Duman can push up forward or play as a tall outside midfielder. A strong Footy IQ and kick of the footy, his decision making when rebounding the ball is superb. Needs some work on contested work.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – TAYLIN DUMAN

 

Pick 47 COLLINGWOOD – Josh Daicos

Small Forward/Outside Midfielder (Oakleigh Chargers/Vic Metro)

26/11/1998 | 177.8cm | 72.2kg

Scouting notes: Talented performer who has a huge ceiling, but is still raw at this stage. A touch of class playing as a half forward and has the goal nous of his father. Kicking style similar to Dads off about three steps.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – JOSH DAICOS

 

Pick 48 MELBOURNE – Tom Williamson

Outside midfielder (North Ballarat Rebels/Vic Country)

12/12/1998 | 188.9cm | 78.5kg

Scouting notes: Outside midfielder who has a great kick. Needs to work on winning the ball more in contested situations and work on his competitiveness, but is a player who can run all day and make his disposals count.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – TOM WILLIAMSON

 

Pick 49 CARLTON – Joseph Atley

Inside Midfielder (Bendigo Pioneers/Vic Country)

04/08/1998 | 185.6cm | 83.3kg

Scouting notes: Big Bodied inside midfielder who has an innate ability to win clearances at will. Dipped into the VFL for Geelong this season. A fierce tackler, he wills to get the ball back. Most of his disposals are handballs out of contested situations.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – JOSEPH ATLEY

 

Pick 50 SYDNEY – Sam Walker

Medium defender (Glenelg/South Australia)

16/03/1998 | 185.1cm | 79.2kg

Scouting notes: Left footed Walker is composed in traffic coming out of defence. A very efficient kick coming out of defence, he is someone you want the ball in his hands. May have the ability to push up the ground and play on a wing.

 

Pick 51 WESTERN BULLDOGS – Oliver Hanrahan

Outside midfielder (St Kevin’s College)

27/08/98 | 183.0cm | 74.0kg

Scouting notes: Lively half forward who has spent the year playing school football for St Kevin’s College. His form in the latter half of the season caught the eye playing alongside Tim Taranto and Patrick Kerr. Knows where the goals are and is a very good kick on his right boot.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – OLIVER HANRAHAN

 

Pick 52 ADELAIDE – Patrick Lipinski

General Forward/Inside Midfielder (Northern Knights/Vic Metro)

17/07/1998 | 186.9cm | 79.5kg

Scouting notes: Lipinski’s basketball background helps him working through traffic in the midfield. Begun the season up forward and provided plenty of options on goal. At stages through the midfield, he will wait for the ball to be dished out to him rather than going to get it.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – PATRICK LIPINSKI

 

Pick 53 WEST COAST EAGLES – Oscar Junker

Tall utility (Western Jets/Vic Metro)

23/01/1998 | 190.7cm | 83.9kg

Scouting notes: Tall utility who has even pushed through the midfield at times. Question marks on his speed, but he is very good overhead and goes in hard. Junker is willing to tackle hard to win the ball back.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – OSCAR JUNKER

 

Pick 54 RICHMOND – Jonty Scharenberg

Inside Midfielder (Glenelg/South Australia)

28/08/1998 | 183.2cm | 80.6kg

Scouting notes: Inside midfielder who is the brother of Collingwood’s Matt. Scharenberg works hard at the stoppages, with his best asset his ability to free his arms when tackled to dish the ball off to a teammate. Champion Data rate Scharenberg as an elite clearance and tackling midfielder. Doesn’t have a great deal of speed, but often elects to pass the ball off to a teammate rather than trying to burst away from the stoppage. Kicking efficiency of 49% through the Under 18 championships. Endurance needs work after an average beep test score at the National Combine.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – JONTY SCHARENBERG

 

Pick 55 GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY – Harry Morrison

Outside midfielder (Murray Bushrangers/Vic Country)

12/11/1998 | 181.5cm | 77.6kg

Scouting notes: Composed half back who is a very good user of the ball. Isn’t afraid to take an intercept mark in defence and he makes good decisions with the ball. Speed will need some improvement.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – HARRY MORRISON

—FOURTH ROUND—

Pick 56 WEST COAST EAGLES – Jake Waterman (Matched bid)

General Forward (Claremont/Western Australia)

12/03/1998 | 189.9cm | 93.7kg

Scouting notes: General forward who booted five goals on League debut for Claremont. Looks slow and lethargic at stages but get the ball in his hands and the ball goes through the goes more often than not when shooting for goal. Won the Mel Whinnen medal for best afield in the WAFL Colts Grand Final after gathering 20 disposals, eight marks and four goals working his way up the ground.

 

Pick 57 GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY – Kym Lebois

Small Forward (North Adelaide/South Australia)

31/05/1998 | 172.5cm | 67.5kg

Scouting notes: Played injured throughout the Under 18 carnival for South Australia. Is a spark inside 50 and is evasive enough to get around opposition. He can burn opponents off running towards goal, kicking off his left boot.

 

Pick 58 ST KILDA – Bailey Morrish

Medium Defender (Dandenong Stingrays/Vic Country)

18/05/1998 | 185.9cm | 80.7kg

Scouting notes: Athletic defender that rebounds the ball well. Has one of the best vertical leaps for those in the draft pool. Kicks the ball well out of defence and often is challenge with kicking the ball out. Not a big disposal winner, but can hurt you on the rebound with his pinpoint left pass.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – BAILEY MORRISH

 

Pick 59 BRISBANE LIONS – Declan Watson (Matched bid)

Key Position Defender (Aspley/Queensland)

17/09/1998 | 191.4cm | 82.8kg

Scouting notes: Key Position Defender that despite his body shape, is good in one-on-one situations. Kicked out throughout the Under 18 championships from full back and rebounds the ball well.

 

Pick 60 COLLINGWOOD – Jack Henry

Medium utility (Geelong Falcons/Vic Country)

29/08/1998 | 191.0cm | 83.5kg

Scouting notes: Athletic utility that may develop into a midfielder in time. Cracks in hard, tackling well and winning the ball in the contest. Will need to work on beefing up his body size, but should fit in nicely at an AFL club after a decorated junior athletics background.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – JACK HENRY

 

Pick 61 CARLTON – Myles Poholke

Inside Midfielder (Dandenong Stingrays/Vic Country)

10/07/1998 | 183.7cm | 81.9kg

Scouting notes: Solid midfielder who wins the ball and is able to hit the scoreboard up forward. Averaged over four marks in the TAC Cup and his hands overhead are great. Not a huge ball winner but took the ball inside 50 on more than three occasions per game.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – MYLES POHOLKE

 

Pick 62 GEELONG – Benjamin Davis

General forward (UNSW/NSW-ACT)

19/05/1997 | 185.8cm | 79.6kg

Scouting notes: Forward who has had his share of injury issues in the past. Performed well as a key target for NSW/ACT but at times was thrown back for the Allies. Is smart around goal and can put them through from 55m out.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – BENJAMIN DAVIS

 

Pick 63 CARLTON – Ryan Garthwaite

Key Position Defender (Murray Bushrangers/NSW-ACT)

30/06/1998 | 192.0cm | 83.2kg

Scouting notes: One of the better one-on-one defenders in the draft pool, Garthwaite has been good in 2016. Despite an awkward kicking style with a double handed ball drop, the ball does get to where it needs to go more often than not.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – RYAN GARTHWAITE

 

Pick 64 ADELAIDE – Esava Ratugolea

Ruckman/Key Position Forward (Murray Bushrangers/Vic Country)

24/07/1998 | 194.0cm | 93.6kg

Scouting notes: Fijian tall athletic ruckman who has the ability to play forward- Kicked eight goals against Bendigo Pioneers earlier in the season. His X-Factor around the contest is outstanding and his leap in the ruck contest is eye catching. Does drop some marks that he should take and needs to work on his kicking.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – ESAVA RATUGOLEA

 

Pick 65 ESSENDON – Ben Jarman

Small Forward/Inside Midfielder (North Adelaide/South Australia)

05/05/1998 | 172.5cm | 70.2kg

Scouting notes: Son of Adelaide and Hawthorn great Darren – Ben was overlooked by both Adelaide and Hawthorn with neither nominating him for tomorrow’s draft. Jarman is smart around the ball and his work for North Adelaide throughout 2016 has been strong. Can hit the scoreboard, as shown by his strong first half in the Under 18 Championships match against Vic Country.

 

Pick 66 MELBOURNE – Corey Lyons

Inside Midfielder (Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro)

31/05/1998 | 180.5cm | 77.1kg

Scouting notes: Strong inside midfielder who could’ve done much more to be drafted with a stellar season. His kicking does need some work, as he can just often hack the ball forward- but his work in close at the clearances and laying tackles is great.

 

Pick 67 FREMANTLE – Zach Sproule (Bid NOT matched by GWS)

Key Position Forward/Defender (Murray Bushrangers/NSW-ACT)

12/05/1998 | 195.6cm | 88.5kg

Scouting notes: Key Position Forward who can get up the ground on long leads thanks to a good endurance base. Agile inside 50, but more of your true leading centre half forward. Takes most of his marks outside 50, but kicked 13 goals in the Division One & Two carnivals combined. When playing back has looked ok one-on-one despite his light frame.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – ZACH SPROULE

 

Pick 68 BRISBANE LIONS – Jacob Allison

General Forward/Outside Midfielder (Aspley/Queensland)

16/04/1998 | 193.4cm | 81.8kg

Scouting notes: Promising midfielder who showed more in his bottom age year than this year. At his size, some saw him pushing through the inside- but so far his season saw him play on the outside. For the Allies he looked most at home across half forward. Has one of the biggest kicks in the draft and can roost it from 60m.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – JACOB ALLISON

 

Pick 69 GEELONG – Brandan Parfitt

Small Forward/Inside Midfielder (North Adelaide/Northern Territory)

27/04/1998 | 177.1cm | 78.8kg

Scouting notes: Lightening quick and exciting when on song. Played more of a midfield role than forward role for North Adelaide in 2016. His consistency and disposal are two areas where improvement is needed.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – BRANDAN PARFITT

 

Pick 70 GEELONG – Kayle Kirby

Small Forward (Bendigo Pioneers/Vic Country)

31/08/1998 | 181.1cm | 96.0kg

Scouting notes: Powerful forward who has outstanding speed. Played in the Richmond VFL side and booted bags of goals. His work inside 50 is very good, but body shape might dictate where he is drafted. Will need to trim down in an AFL environment, with combine measurements not flattering.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – KAYLE KIRBY

 

Pick 71 WESTERN BULLDOGS – Harrison Bult

General Defender (Western Jets/Vic Metro)

29/05/1998 | 197.1cm | 82.8kg

Scouting notes: The left footed hybrid defender had one of the best kicking efficiencies (82.2 per cent) in the TAC Cup in 2016. Bult at times did play ball, but did his best work for PEGS in the AGSV school football competition playing on a wing. Does struggle in contested situations and is more suited to playing on a flank.

—FIFTH ROUND—

Pick 72 NORTH MELBOURNE – Judah Dundon

Outside midfielder (Western Jets/Vic Metro)

19/04/1998 | 185.0cm | 76.6kg

Scouting notes: A stress fracture on both legs in 2016 marred Dundon’s season, but his kicking off his left foot and footy IQ make him an appealing prospect for clubs.

2016 AFL DRAFT PROFILE – JUDAH DUNDON

 

Pick 73 HAWTHORN – Louis Cunningham

Small defender (Oakleigh Chagers/Vic Metro)

24/02/1998 | 181.8cm | 76.6kg

Scouting notes: Left footed defender who has one of the best kicks in the draft pool. Played predominantly across half back and breaks the game open with his pinpoint pass and dash from defence. Not a huge disposal winner – but is someone you want the ball in their hands.

 

Pick 74 HAWTHORN – Lachlan Tiziani (Bid NOT matched by GWS)

Medium forward (Murray Bushrangers/NSW-ACT)

13/03/1997 | 188.9cm | 78.7kg

Scouting notes: Overlooked in 2015 but returned strongly getting better as the season went on. Kicked a few bags of goals up forward for the Bushrangers, whilst pushing through the midfield. His six goals in the TAC Cup Preliminary Final against Oakleigh Chargers was pivotal in the Bushies making the Grand Final. Up forward he can mark the ball one-on-one or on a lead.