STRENGTHS:

+ Kick penetration
+ One-on-ones
+ Speed
+ Versatility

IMPROVEMENTS:

- Composure
- Decision making

A dashing, daring defender who can also hold his own one-on-one, Blake Leidler has plenty of weapons in his arsenal. He proved during the APS season with Wesley College that he can go forward, has been tasked with shutting down dangerous opponents like Jesse Dattoli and Oliver Hannaford, and boasts electric speed - as shown by his 2.89-second 20m sprint at the state draft combine.

Leidler arguably played his best football down back and when not made to lock down on a direct opponent, showcased his aggressive rebound running ability. He's capable of relentlessly overlapping through the corridor and connecting the field in a flash, before compounding the metres gained effect by thumping a long kick forward. Such ability to go end-to-end suits the moderns game.

While his whirlwind attacking forays make for great entertainment, becoming a more accountable defender came with the education of being a touch less so. He could also be a touch more composed when setting off forward, which will help his decision making process and thus iron out his overall execution. Though, you don't want to take away all the positive instincts that make him so unique.

DRAFT RANGE: Late/Rookie

Image Credit: Martin Keep/AFL Photos

PLAYER HIGHLIGHTS: