STRENGTHS:

+ Aerial ability
+ Footy IQ
+ Forward craft
+ Speed
+ X-factor

IMPROVEMENTS:

- Composure
- Limited exposure

A valuable talent as far as forwards go, Brain's ability to impact both in the air and at ground level at 185cm makes him a dangerous asset. He has the athleticism to spring vertically and shift sharply across the ground, which works well in combination with sound smarts in scoring situations.

While a relatively steady goalkicker himself, Brain has the capacity to get involved in many a scoring chain. He averaged six, and nearly five in his three VFL and National Championship games respectively, showcasing terrific forward craft and a sense of awareness suited to the role.

A low-possession but high-impact player by his own estimation, the Lions Academy talent lived up to that billing to produce one of his most impressive games on the big stage. The Allies were hunting their first win of the Under 18 carnival, and Brain's two late goals sealed victory over Western Australia in dramatic fashion.

For all his x-factor and natural nous, Brain has a few improvement areas. The childhood Collingwood fan is looking to add composure to his game akin to the likes of Scott Pendlebury and Steele Sidebottom, allowing his mind to work as quickly as he moves. That will help his skills, particularly kicking, become more consistent.

He has also crammed a whole lot of high-end experience into a short sample size this year, putting together a relative highlight reel compared to the extensive tape of other prospects. That works in his favour to a degree, but clubs other than Brisbane may need a greater taste to take a chance on a prospect with such promise.