STRENGTHS:

+ Aerial ability
+ Decision making
+ Kicking
+ Versatility

IMPROVEMENTS:

- Speed
- Strength

This year's title-winning South Australian side was full of reliable figures, one being Elliott Duffield. The South Adelaide defender built on a promising bottom-age campaign to make his mark on the state setup, playing a full carnival in the Croweaters' stingy backline. He was also a key figure for the Panthers, offering leadership quality and a cool head in crises.

At 193cm, Duffield is a promising aerialist with his leap and attack on the ball. He has proven capable of both intercepting and negating opponents, capable of accessing the ball at full stretch. His ability to play in a variety of roles was impressive this year, primarily stationed down back but also swinging forward and even playing as a tall midfielder for South.

At his best, Duffield picks out targets by foot and offers great composure in his ball use. While mobile, state combine testing results suggest he can continue to develop his explosive pace, which will help in keeping up with the speed of top level football. Strength is another area for growth, literally, to fare better in one-on-one situations and clunk more contested marks.

DRAFT RANGE: Late/Rookie