STRENGTHS:

+ Athleticism
+ Competitiveness
+ Contested marking
+ Defensive pressure
+ Physicality
+ Scoreboard impact

IMPROVEMENTS:

- Conversion
- Four-quarter consistency

Walter has been an out-and-out favourite for recruiters to watch this year, and there's little wondering why. Some couldn't help but chuckle in the grandstands as the Queenslander hunted down opposition defenders and bullied them in one-on-one contests. He was simply dominant throughout the National Championships and gave life to the seemingly fixed debate on who could be the number one prospect.

There are so few players like him, particularly in his position. Walter's defensive application is as good, if not better than any other key forward to have come through the talent pathway. He chases and harasses opponents with ominous closing speed and brutal physicality, hustling at the fall of the ball with as much intensity as he leaps at it with. Despite only averaging two to three tackles this year, his wrath was felt.

While his defensive game is astounding, Walters' attacking exploits are equally damaging. He comes to life in scintillating bursts, particularly at the start of games, looking unstoppable in the air and on the lead en route to goal. Taking on opponents like Dan Curtin, Ollie Murphy and Will McCabe, Walter booted 11 goals in Allies colours and averaged seven marks per game (two contested).

What makes Walter such a difficult matchup is that he adapts to the defenders' style of play. If they look to engage, he'll outmuscle them in one-on-one tussles, but if they sag off and allow him a run at the ball, he'll just as likely beat them in the air. He's also the kind of forward who doesn't mind doing the tough stuff and is more than accustomed to taking bodies with him when crashing packs.

Rounding out Walter's powerful skillset is his penetrative kicking. While his set shot conversion is hit or miss at times, Walter strikes the ball cleanly and can clear 50 metres with both feet. It's an underrated aspect of his game, along with the ability to snap at goal from both pockets. No matter where Walter is situated inside 50, if he has a sight on goal or can assist a teammate, his side is bound to score.

Along with conversion, arguably the main improvement area for Walter is his endurance. Having lit up the early stages of many games this season, he tended to fade out of the second half and can build up a better tank to either run out four quarters, or more frequently advance outside 50. It would only make him an even tougher, more unrelenting matchup in the long run.