Image Credit: Paul Kane/AFL Photos

POSITION: Small Forward/Midfielder

DRAFT ANALYSIS: "Brockman is a powerful small-medium forward/midfielder who brings plenty of excitement with his attacking play and sharp skills." - Michael Alvaro

Subiaco Colts premiership player Tyler Brockman has put himself in AFL Draft contention this year with a terrific top-age season, rotating through the midfield from his usual forward post. The 181cm prospect is a high-impact type, able to break the game open with his explosive speed and creativity in the forward half. Having previously been a part of Western Australia's Under 16 squad, Brockman has shown a good level of commitment in 2020 to help fulfil his potential and stand out as one of the WAFL Colts' most watchable talents. His form was enough to warrant a state combine invite, confirming interest from AFL clubs, while also earning selection in the WA Under 18 All-Stars fixtures. This, after not being included in the most recent AFL Academy intake. He also comes from decent pedigree as the nephew of former Fremantle and Gold Coast player, Greg Broughton.

STRENGTHS:

• X-Factor
• Explosiveness
• Speed
• Tackling
• Kicking
• Impact

IMPROVEMENTS:

• Consistency
• Midfield craft/accumulation

Brockman is the kind of player who provides real spark whenever the ball enters his area, able to break the game open in a flash with his mix of skill and athleticism. X-factor is the word often associated with prospects like Brockman, as they work to make something happen and really hurt the opposition with each possession. The Subiaco product's knack of kicking an improbable goal, carving forward with speed, or snapping up an leaping mark puts him firmly in that mould, though he is not entirely limited by it.

At 181cm, Brockman is quite a strong at the contest and has the kind of explosive quality which catches the eye. He showcased his burst of speed during preseason testing with a 20m sprint time of 2.93 seconds, putting him in the elite category. That figure translates to his on-field form too, as Brockman loves to quickly burn his opponents after snaffling the ball up, before releasing a quality pass forward. His pace is also a factor in being able to apply good defensive pressure, an invaluable trait for modern day small forwards. Brockman averaged 4.7 tackles per his 10 WAFL Colts games this year.

In terms of impact, Brockman compounds the meters and separation gained via leg speed with crafty disposal on the attack. He is often seen lowering his eyes going inside 50 and hitting up targets via foot, not afraid to kick on both feet. When stationed deeper, Brockman also finishes quite well and finds a way to capitalise on any slight scoring chance. His ability to both create and cap off those opportunities makes him a real asset in the front half, combining that creativity and scoreboard presence with tackling pressure to fulfil his full range of duties as a small forward.

There is still plenty for Brockman to develop further, even with his solid range of attributes. His commitment to the elite standards expected of those at state league level and in the AFL talent pathways was queried, but Brockman has proven what can come of hard work this year. His consistency and output when stationed further afield could improve, though he very much looks like playing as a deep small forward to start with, before potentially becoming a high half-forward where he can better utilise his skills. His 26 disposals, 10 marks, nine score involvements, and two goals in the first All-Stars game showed a glimpse as to what Brockman can do at his best, capping off a promising top-age campaign.

DRAFT PROJECTION: Late - Rookie

Small forwards are often in high demand across the league and those taken late or in rookie spots have proven gems as role players over the last few years. As a forward with great speed who can tackle, find the goals and create for others, Brockman fits the bill nicely and could find a home on the back of those core traits. Some clubs may want to see him further his form and turn his glimpses into consistent domination, but others could pounce on his potential and look to develop him in their system. Cuts to list sizes might make it tough for Brockman this year, but there promises to be plenty of opportunities down the line.