STRENGTHS:

+ Forward craft
+ Marking
+ Power
+ Scoreboard impact

IMPROVEMENTS:

- Defensive pressure
- Versatility

Powerhouse forward Josh Murphy kicked goals for fun in 2024. He led the Coates Talent League goalkicking charts with 32 majors in 11 games, including three bags of six. Having captained the Allies, he also booted the representative side's most goals with seven in four appearances.

An explosive unit, the 190cm forward is capable of playing above his height with strong overhead marking. Murphy proved as much by recording the highest standing vertical jump at this year's state draft combine, leaping 74cm. He translates that on-field with his aerial exploits.

Murphy has a good set of hands and his forward craft makes his dangerous both on the lead, or when the ball hits the deck. Although, he can become more versatile by working harder up the ground and lifting his defensive output, given he spends so much time deep inside attacking 50. As far as goalkickers go, though, few have been more effective this year.

DRAFT RANGE: Late/Rookie