THE ULTIMATE COMPETITOR

Tough, relentless, uncompromising. The Oakleigh Chargers midfielder has a knack for standing up on the big stage and did so in May’s AFL Academy showcase, taking home the MCC President’s Medal as best afield. What makes him the ultimate team player is his attack on the ball, work rate, and two-way effort, but Wardlaw has added some serious weapons to his well-rounded game in 2022. Having cut his teeth as an inside type, the 17-year-old’s explosive athleticism makes him hard to stop among his peers, and he has developed a wickedly penetrative kick to go with clean overhead marking. Those traits combined, he can hurt the opposition while endeavouring to help others shine.

OCTOBER RANKING: #2

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Wardlaw endured an injury-interrupted campaign and upon returning from a hamstring knock, sustained a similar soft tissue injury in the opening minutes of his APS game for St Kevin’s. Nonetheless, he remains among the top five talents nationwide and will be right on the radar for one of North Melbourne’s picks at the pointy end of the draft.

VICE-LIKE HANDS

The leading key position talent in a draft once thought to be rich with promising talls at the top-end, Cadman has proven undeniable as a genuine top five candidate this year. He got some good bottom-age experience under his belt in 2021 but has excelled as Greater Western Victoria’s spearhead in 2022, earning a call-up to the AFL Academy on the back of terrific NAB League form. With a big game mentality, vice-like hands on the lead and a hunger to compete, he has drawn comparisons to fellow left-footed forward Jeremy Cameron, though has consistency to be ironed out in his set shot conversion.

OCTOBER RANKING: #4

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Cadman rounded out a superb top-age season by performing strongly at the National Combine. He showcased his all-round athleticism with solid showings in both the 20m sprint and 2km time trial, and is said to be the frontrunner for GWS’ pick one. A Country boy, he will be favoured for his lack of ‘go home factor’, promising to develop into a reliable focal point for years to come.

FLEET OF FOOT

Plenty of top-end prospects are labelled ‘jets’, and Tsatas is one who embodies that moniker on-field. The Oakleigh Chargers speedster is an athletic type at 186cm, able to seriously hurt the opposition with line-breaking dashes through the corridor. Given his outside tendencies, Tsatas mostly featured on the wing at NAB League level, but really catches the eye when utilised at the centre bounces with his ability to break away cleanly and hit targets at full tilt. Coming into the year, he was one of three Victorian midfielders in the mix for pick one, and has pressed his claims with terrific numbers in the back-end of the year.

OCTOBER RANKING: #3

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Tsatas slides down one spot as Cadman hits new heights in the top three, but the midfielder could not have done much more to impress post-injury. Plying his trade at the centre bounces, his numbers speak for themselves and Tsatas proved he could hang on the inside. His combine testing results are perhaps not entirely indicative of his athletic potential, but Tsatas should put himself in good stead with an uninterrupted preseason. He looks to be in the top five frame, potentially as early as North Melbourne, but more likely at Essendon.

SMARTS AND SKILL

One of the more naturally skilful footballers in this year’s draft class, Sheezel has built on his bottom-age promise to break through as a genuine top five prospect. Another talent out of the Sandringham Dragons, he was tied to the region full-time alongside Ashcroft this season, and made good on the opportunity. While proven in his goalkicking ability, Sheezel has also staked his claim as a rotating midfielder with wicked foot skills, and has clear upside as a player who can win games off his own boot.

OCTOBER RANKING: #5

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Sheezel was another player who sat out combine testing come season’s end, but arguably earned a chop-out having helped take out the NAB League and National Championship titles. He has been extensively tied with one of North Melbourne’s two top five picks, potentially added a touch of flair inside 50 and the type of character which will please Roos fans. If not, Essendon, Gold Coast and Hawthorn wait in the wings.

TOP TRAITS GALORE

A hard-nosed midfielder whose range of traits is truly enviable, Clark can just about do it all. The Geelong Falcons and Vic Country captain is competitive at the coalface but also has the running capacity to rack up possessions around the ground, and the overhead marking ability to play slightly above his 181cm standing. Capping off his well-rounded game, Clark makes good decisions and can kick off both feet, making him an effective user of the ball who keeps it simple when attacking. Though not as quick or flashy as others in this range, there are very few weaknesses to exploit and he is truly made of leadership material.

OCTOBER RANKING: #6

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Pegged as the next Joel Selwood, it is no surprise that the Geelong Falcons product has been linked locally to the Cats. He displayed his strong endurance base with a time of 6:27 across 2km at the National Combine, and though he may lack the explosive athleticism of others, has the competitive streak and consistency to remain a top 10 lock. He won’t be on the board for long.

BRUTE FORCE

Captain fantastic for the undefeated Gippsland Power, Humphrey enjoyed a steep rise up draft boards after returning from injury late in the season. The brutish midfielder-forward impacts on every game he plays, burrowing from inside to the outer with his powerful frame and appetite for the contest. He has worked on his ability to impact up forward and with 21 goals in 11 NAB League outings this year, Humphrey has proven to be more than just a hardened ball winner. His competitiveness is a big tick, and flies at the forefront of a potent all-round game.

OCTOBER RANKING: #7

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Powerful midfielder-forwards are in vogue and Humphrey certainly fits that bill. Most importantly, he has ticked a lot of boxes character-wise, with the 18-year-old presenting impressively to recruiters both on and off the field. He looks likely to be snapped up within the top 10 picks, potentially in the 5-8 range.

UNDER THE RADAR

The first club-tied player in our rankings, Mackenzie is one who perhaps slipped under the radar among stacked sides, but has proven to be a genuine talent in his own right. Despite his connection, the St Kilda Next Generation Academy member will almost certainly not end up at the Saints via bidding given how prolific he has been this year at NAB League, APS, and representative level. Mackenzie has a terrific turn of speed and breaks away from stoppages with class, making good decisions with his elite disposal on the attack.

OCTOBER RANKING: #9

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While the bidding system will deny St Kilda NGA access to Mackenzie, the Victorian club remains in the running to snap him up within the top 10. Possessing pick nine, which will end up being number 10 due to the bid on Will Ashcroft, the Saints are well poised to get their man if he is not snapped up earlier, but he will unlikely stay on the board for long given his weapons and reliability.

THE MID-FORWARD HYBRID

Perhaps a ranking initially made on upside, Phillipou has made good on the hype in 2022. He is one of the more exciting talents coming out of South Australia this year, and arguably the best, with plenty of scope for improvement yet. The Woodville-West Torrens midfielder-forward is wonderfully athletic at 192cm, able to impact aerially and proving dextrous with his ability to win the ball on both sides of midfield. Capping off his game, he can hit the scoreboard as a forward and has done so consistently as a real beacon of hope for the Eagles’ Under 18 side. So much so, he has even stepped up to Reserves level.

OCTOBER RANKING: #8

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Adelaide fans would likely have had Phillipou in their sights when the Crows held pick five, but that is no longer an option for the local. His father, Sam played for the Port Adelaide Magpies, but the Power too looks a less than likely destination. Perhaps the Western Bulldogs, where Phillipou’s father played three games, is a club in the frame should the likes of St Kilda and Carlton opt to look elsewhere. A potential top five talent when all is said and done, the South Australian could even attract interest well inside the top 10.

THE LEAN MARKING MACHINE

A rangy tall forward who proves proficient in the air, Jefferson is one of the key position players with the most upside in this year’s group. Though his production isn’t as high as others just yet, the 18-year-old is mobile at 195cm and offers great range with his lanky frame. Already a clean marker of the ball, he has some filling out to do and while he can play at both ends of the ground or on a wing, looks a likely type up forward.

OCTOBER RANKING: #11

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Jefferson battled through a leg injury in the back-end of the NAB League season, but came through the other side to play for Vic Metro and test at the National Combine. His agility and 2km time trial results left a little to be desired, but the 18-year-old remains well within first round calculations having compiled a super promising campaign.

COMPOSED AND COMPLETE

While he presents as a raw and rangy talent on face value, Busslinger is one of the more accomplished talls in this year’s crop. The East Perth prospect broke through for his WAFL League debut after undeniable Colts form, looking a level above his peers credit to terrific reading of the play and polished use of the ball for a player his size. His distribution and composure are standout traits which add to his ability to intercept or lock down opposition forwards, making him a clear choice as the top key defender this year.

OCTOBER RANKING: #10

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Busslinger’s season ended when he opted to go in for surgery to repair his shoulder, which had given him trouble throughout 2022. The West Australian still managed to earn All Australian selection off just two of a possible four National Championship games, remaining a chance of landing within the top 15. He could go as early as the top 10, given how clubs may need to reach for key defensive options down the line, and West Coast is on the hunt for some local talent.

THE POWERHOUSE

We all love a bolter, and Ginbey looms as one of the big ones in this year’s first round. Recruiters were intrigued early this season by the explosive athlete out of East Perth who earned a berth in the Royals’ League side, and he won everyone else over upon entering Western Australia’s state Under 18 setup. Able to play across half-back or in midfield, Ginbey is a powerful unit who thrives in contested situations and brings others into the game with his clean distribution by hand. He is much scrappier by foot, but has the strong frame and work rate to dominate as an inside midfielder.

OCTOBER RANKING: #14

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Unsurprisingly, Ginbey was outstanding at the National Draft Combine, registering top 10 results in all categories bar the agility test. His all-round athleticism and versatility to play both in defence and midfield have him pegged as a strong top 10 chance, linked to Gold Coast’s pick five and Gold Coast’s pick eight.

THE RUNNING MACHINE

The name may be recognisable, but Hollands is blazing his own trail as a draft prospect this year. He is the son of Ben and brother of Elijah, though projects as a slightly different player to his elder sibling. At 183cm, the Murray Bushrangers product possesses a wicked step through traffic and loves racking up the ball in midfield, but can just as easily transfer his elite endurance to the outside. He has also been made to prove his versatility this season, making the step up to represent Vic Country and the AFL Academy.

OCTOBER RANKING: #13

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Hollands, a Carlton supporter, has been heavily linked to the Blues at pick 10, and suits a need perfectly given his versatility as a midfielder. Should he land there, he could help turn around their wing woes in the long term. Otherwise, Hollands will likely be snapped up within the first round having tested well and topped the time sheet over 2km with an impressive effort of 5:54.

SPEED AND ENDURANCE

A player with traits AFL recruiters will love, Hewett came into the year as one of Western Australia’s top talents. He remains right in the first round mix after starting and ending his season in Swan Districts’ senior side, displaying his speed-endurance combination on both sides of midfield. While well built and bull-like on the inside against his peers, Hewett has also leant on his high-level running capacity to provide some outside drive this season, and prove his balance in the engine room. He’s a real leader among the Black Ducks’ Under 18 setup.

OCTOBER RANKING: #12

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Hewett ended his 2022 season on a positive note, performing strongly at League level before testing well at the draft combine with top five results in the vertical jump and agility tests. As one of many powerful midfield options, Hewett’s point of difference is his exposure against senior opposition and he will likely appeal to West Coast early in the piece, though other clubs will certainly have him in consideration within round one.

BEE IN A BOTTLE

All-action small forwards are exactly what clubs are crying out for, and Konstanty is one who may heed the call within the top 25 picks. While obviously a significant goal threat, Konstanty plays at speed and uses it to have a say defensively just as much as he does offensively. Consistency is an area of his game to iron out, but the Gippsland Power small is so clever and knows how to make a difference when stationed around the ball. He kicked goals in all bar two of his 11 NAB League games this season, for a total of 17, and looks to be one of the premier players in his position.

OCTOBER RANKING: #15

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Konstanty’s numbers at times are not indicative of his impact, and that was relatively true in his final outing for the year, as Vic Country lost in the National Championships decider. The zippy small returned a handy all-round combine performance, and looks set to come into consideration with one of GWS’ two late first round picks.

THE VERSATILE STOPPER

A tall defender who offers plenty of flexibility at 199cm, Hayes is a capable interceptor but also offers sound distribution on the rebound. With six performances of over 20 disposals this NAB League season, he is comfortable with ball in hand and spreads the play well by foot. Some of his most solid form came in representative colours, and the brother of Port Adelaide’s Sam has nice upside.

OCTOBER RANKING: #20

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After Busslinger, Hayes looks set to be one of the primary key defensive options and now standing at 199cm, offers serious long term value for clubs. He did all he could to press into first round contention with strong performances for the unbeaten Vic Metro, proving flexible in his role and earning a high enough standing among recruiters to overlook his collapse at the end of the 2km time trial.

SLICK AND QUICK

Another real bolter in the pack, Hotton has quickly transformed from Vic Metro squad top-up, to a starting player, and a top 20 prospect to boot. By his own admission, the Sandringham Dragons prospect did not quite hit great heights early in the NAB League season, but found his feet in the school football ranks and took full toll once given the chance for Vic Metro. His clean and quick work both at stoppages and inside attacking 50 make him a slick modern day midfielder-forward, with the skill to impact in both roles. His would be one of the great stories out of this year’s crop.

OCTOBER RANKING: #17

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Having pressed his claims on-field, Hotton has proven an ultra impressive performer off it during interviews at the draft combine. He also tested well, as expected, with top 10 results in the vertical jump and 20m sprint to further showcase a couple of key strengths in his game. He’ll be right around the first round mark, but wouldn’t last long thereafter.

DEADLY DECISION MAKING

A smooth moving midfielder-forward who hails from great pedigree, Alwyn Davey Jr is an Essendon father-son candidate who will likely set the Bombers back a fair few draft points. The Northern Territory native boards at Xavier College with twin brother Jayden, hence his link with the Oakleigh Chargers in the NAB League. Though relatively low in production compared to other midfielder-forwards, Davey possesses wonderful smarts and evasive technique on the attack, noted for making great decisions in tight spots.

OCTOBER RANKING: #18

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Davey kept Essendon fans in suspense with regards to his father-son nomination, but will now end up in the red and black alongside his twin sibling. The clever midfielder-forward ended his season well as Vic Metro took out the National Championships, and clocked typically sharp times in the 20m sprint and agility test come combine time. The Bombers will be hoping a bid comes after their second round pick (22), though he may attract interest in the teens.

THE SUPERBOOT

The Tasmania Devils skipper this year, Cowan is his state’s standout prospect and has plenty of desirable traits. He’s hard to miss on-field with a flowing mullet and flashy boots, backed up by speed and a booming left-foot kick which, in combination, make for damaging rebound play. Cowan made the AFL Academy intake for 2022 on the back of high-level bottom-age form, and has built on that by leading his side admirably at NAB League level. At 187cm, he has the athleticism to impact aerially but catches the eye most with his pace and line-breaking play.

OCTOBER RANKING: #21

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Heading his state’s prospects in 2022, Cowan sneaks into the top 20 at the final time of asking having put together a terrific top-age campaign. The Tasmanian returned solid all-round results at the National Combine to back up his on-field feats, and will be in the frame for many clubs within the first round – particularly both Sydney clubs given his lack of ‘go home factor’.

ALL CLASS

Ashcroft may be the Brisbane Lions father-son stealing most of the headlines, but the club has another in its midst. Fletcher, the son of former Geelong, St Kilda, Fremantle and Brisbane player, Adrian, is only tied to one club and looks to be Queensland’s top prospect in 2022. The classy on-baller can play on either side of midfield and possesses a weaponous boot which sees him launch goals from outside 50 with great frequency.

OCTOBER RANKING: #23

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Father-son and academy candidates often tend to slide due to the bidding process, but Fletcher remains in first round contention. Given his ties to the Lions Academy, he did not have to nominate as a father-son, and will end up in maroon, blue and gold at the end of the month. Like Cowan, he sneaks into our top 20 and should be snapped up around that range with Brisbane likely to go into points deficit next year.

POWER PERSONIFIED

George is a player with serious power and the ability to produce mercurial plays inside attacking 50, making him a first round candidate despite his injury woes. He cut his teeth as a medium forward across five NAB League games last year, and has essentially done the same in 2022 despite early claims for some midfield rotation. At 186cm, he presents as a slightly taller target with his explosive athleticism and clean hands overhead, but can make defenders look silly at ground level with his goal sense. Able to convert from all angles and distances, the Murray Bushrangers talent could follow a similar path to Josh Rachele this year.

OCTOBER RANKING: #19

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Having initially missed a large chunk of games through a meniscus injury, George’s season ended with an ACL tear in just his second NAB League game back. His recovery will dig into his first AFL preseason, though he should have little trouble being picked up given his early-season exploits – which had him potentially pushing the top 10. Should he slide out of the first round, a club with the resources and ability to give him time to come good post-injury will be more than happy to snap him up.

FUNDAMENTAL FOOTBALLER

A unique talent at 195cm, Hustwaite has enjoyed a growth spurt over the last few years to translate his usual midfield game to defence. He cut his teeth down back as a bottom-ager last year, and did so again early in 2022 before taking on more ball winning responsibility as Dandenong’s APS kids shifted out of the NAB League. The 18-year-old was also a call-up for the AFL Academy, leaning on his versatility to showcase the clean hands and composed decision making he is lauded for. In that game, he played against his elder brother Campbell – captain of Collingwood VFL.

OCTOBER RANKING: #16

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Hustwaite is a prospect whose improvement areas – speed, competitiveness, and hurt factor – perhaps fly in the face of what recruiters look for in modern day footballers. That’s exactly why his case is so intriguing, as his fundamentals and composure with ball in hand are so sound. He could be a top 20 talent, or fall below that standing come draft time depending on whether a club is willing to test the waters so early. His uniqueness and versatility are certainly pointers which lie in his favour. Collingwood seems a likely fit in the second round.

THE TOP RUCK

Barnett is an exciting ruck whose feats are suffixed with the ‘for his size’ tag, and he wears it quite well. The West Adelaide prospect can do things not many 202cm players can with ball in hand, but remains a work in progress. Barnett has proven difficult to beat at SANFL Under 18s level this season after a promising bottom-aged campaign, showing off his ability to carry and kick the ball with as a very mobile ruckman, who also rises for eye-catching marks. He took ahold as South Australia’s primary ruck, and also earned a League berth for the Bloods this season.

OCTOBER RANKING: #22

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Having staked his claim as the draft class’ top ruck prospect, Barnett may be a man in demand come late-November. The South Australian would have been on the radar of Adelaide before the Crows traded out of round two, and he’s a good chance to attract interest within the top 30.

THE THIRD TALL

This year’s draft crop is bereft of tall defenders at the top end, and while Weddle sits just below key position status at 192cm, he’s a handy aerial asset. The Oakleigh Chargers product is clean overhead and has the athleticism to not only compete there, but to also cover serious ground on the rebound or lock down an opponent. His physicality and speed make for daring play off half-back, and put him in top 25 contention as a uniquely dynamic backman.

OCTOBER RANKING: #26

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Weddle’s combine performance, where he featured in the top 10 of all-bar one testing event, only compounded the fact that he will be a prized asset come draft time. The solidly-built and athletically outstanding defender has enormous upside which will put him in with a chance of cracking the first round, especially given his potential to play on a range of opponents.

THE FIRST ROUND BOLTER

It may have been a long time coming, but Allan hit the ground running upon his return from stress fractures in his back to set the end of season 2022 alight. His first WAFL Colts appearance came in Round 13, and he averaged 25.2 disposals across a handful of outings for Claremont en route to a National Championships call-up. The son of inaugural Fremantle skipper, and 98-game Hawthorn player Ben, Ed is a rangy prospect capable of playing on either side of midfield or down back. His unique size, athleticism, and ability to kick off both feet are all traits which point towards high versatility and potential.

OCTOBER RANKING: Unranked

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Both Fremantle and Hawthorn will miss out on access to Allan via father-son rules, which the other 16 clubs will be wrapped with. The 194cm West Australian topped the time sheet over 20m at the National Draft Combine with a scintillating time of 2.814 seconds, putting him in the top five of all time and further into first round contention. While he could further implement that kind of athleticism into his game and work on his contested acumen, Allan will be in West Coast’s thoughts as early as pick 12.

SKY IS THE LIMIT

A talented athlete with one of the highest ceilings in this year’s draft class, Keeler has long been a prospect under the eyes of those at the top level. Compounding that fact is his link to the Adelaide Crows as a Next Generation Academy member, though they will unlikely be able to secure his services outside of the top 40. After overcoming some inconsistency early in his top-age campaign, the mobile ruck-forward has delivered on the promise he showed as an under-ager to truly prove himself as a genuine talent, and one of the best out of South Australia. There are not many ruck-forwards as versatile, athletic, and gifted as he is.

OCTOBER RANKING: #25

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Keeler rounded out his season well despite his North Adelaide side going down in the SANFL Under 18 grand final, but left a little to be desired at the draft combine. His 20m sprint (3.019 seconds) was strong, though he has improvement left in the way of endurance and that translates on-field. Nonetheless, he could be an attractive prospect to clubs like Collingwood looking for a long term key position talent in the second round.

SLICK AND SPEEDY

Possessing a few traits similar to powerhouse Gippsland teammate Bailey Humphrey, Burgiel has entered the first round conversation on the back of a strong year across multiple levels. With work on each line between Vic Country, Wesley College, and the Power, Burgiel uses his speed to break the play open in clean bursts. He looks best suited to a mid-forward role and has consistently hit the scoreboard in 2022, making him a dual threat among the early to middle stages of the draft.

OCTOBER RANKING: #27

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Burgiel showcased his speed-endurance blend at the draft combine, proving particularly sharp over 20m to rank third with a time of 2.883 seconds. The Gippsland Power talent has been linked with the likes of GWS as early as their current picks 18 and 19, and looks set to find a home within the 20s.

THE POCKET ROCKET

A small and slight talent who truly defies his size, Jones is as determined as any other prospect in the pool to prove his skillset is worthy. The West Australian was one of his state’s top performers during the National Championships, and has gone on to crack both senior grades for Swan Districts. His line-breaking speed makes him a threat, but Jones’ piercing kicking, defensive effort, and ability to play on each line are other traits which have him in second round range.

OCTOBER RANKING: #32

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Jones snatched headlines at the National Draft Combine after setting a record benchmark in the agility test, burning home in a time of 7.702 seconds. He also featured in the top 10 for the running vertical jump and 20m sprint, further raising his draft stocks. Though small, he is a tenacious competitor who skill and speed will appeal to clubs looking for line-breakers who suit the modern game. He shapes as a second rounder.

LOCKDOWN SPECIALIST

A versatile defender who can shut down opponents just as easily as he mops up and hits targets by foot, Michalanney is one of the rare players to have earned berths across all three grades at state league level. The Norwood product and son of 211-game Redlegs champion Jim, Michalanney is tied to Adelaide as a father-son candidate and will end up in Crows colours come draft time. That’s not to say he hasn’t impressed other clubs though, with his well-rounded defensive game putting him high on many a draft board.

OCTOBER RANKING: Unranked

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A top 30 entrant in November alongside Allan, Michalanney has been thereabouts all year and finally cracks the mark after an undeniably impressive season. He was recently officially nominated as a father-son draftee for the Crows and while some clubs value his talent in the teens, he is arguably more likely to attract a bid within the second round. At 190cm, he looms as a high value selection who will solidify a long term senior spot quickly.

THE WORKHORSE

A clean inside midfielder who is described as an animal on the training track, Szybkowski has worked hard to get the best out of himself this season. The Dandenong Stingrays and Caulfield Grammar standout is a beast at the stoppages and looks like one of the best exponents of the handball in this year’s crop. He links well with others and can rack up plenty of the ball himself, putting his side on the front foot as the source of many a stoppage exit. Able to make others shine by doing the hard yards, Szybkowski is the type of player who sets standards.

OCTOBER RANKING: #24

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Szybkowski may be one of this year’s sliders having originally been poised in first round contention, but offers great value and reliability to a club looking for readymade talent thereafter. He tested relatively well at the draft combine in tests outside of his usual wheelhouse, and has clear strengths as an inside midfielder who links well with his engine room partners.

BIG MOMENT MAESTRO

A midfielder-forward who plays with a blend of flair and intensity, Clarke is a player with true star factor. His boisterous celebrations and keen eye for goal make for a fan friendly style, and the 18-year-old has made a name for setting the attacking 50 alight. His seven-goal effort for Sandringham in Round 4 sparked a terrific top-age campaign, in which Clarke earned representative honours and consistently split the big sticks. Though he has polish to apply to areas of his game, the keen snapper offers raw excitement.

OCTOBER RANKING: #30

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Clarke perhaps tested below his potential at the draft combine, but put in a terrific body of work on-field to press his case as an early selection. The crafty small forward, who loves a goal celebration, is also highly rated for his potential as a midfielder and may pique the interest of clubs like Collingwood and GWS in the first round. He has been linked with the latter, as a Victorian prospect willing to head interstate.

THE ATTACKING DEFENDER

A player who suits the modern game with his athletic traits and versatility, Ryan has been around the mark this year and remains in the extended rankings of 40. The Glenelg half-back can play at either end of the ground or on a wing, offering aerial prowess and the ability to carry the ball with confidence. On the end of his forays are generally sound kicks, and Ryan is an eye-catching player at his best who racks up plenty of possessions.

OCTOBER RANKING: #29

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Having featured around the mark all year, Ryan falls just outside our top 30 but has his suitors even earlier than that. As a 189cm prospect who can play tall and small in a variety of roles, he looks best suited to a role across half-back where his overhead marking and sound kicking come to the fore. His range of traits point towards strong upside in the second round.

OLD RELIABLE

This year’s Allies MVP and a Giants Academy member, Rowston is as reliable as they come through midfield. The hardened ball winner worked tirelessly on his running capacity and made that work rate a strength, accumulating possessions at the coalface and jetting forward to also hit the scoreboard. He played a key part as Assumption College took out the AGSV title this year before linking up with the Calder Cannons, helping them qualify for the NAB League finals with a strong string of performances.

OCTOBER RANKING: #37

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Rowston’s ties to GWS give him somewhat of a safety net, though the Giants may hope they can nab him after their current pick 31. Clubs will love his tenacity and ability to iron out his deficiencies this year, presenting as another readymade type who also put up well-rounded combine results.

THE SWINGMAN

Gruzewski is a player with eye-catching aerial traits, and the versatility at 193cm which will appeal to many clubs. Capable of clunking clean marks at either end of the ground, the Oakleigh Chargers product impressed across the NAB League and APS seasons to earn a National Combine invite, before also nabbing a berth with Vic Metro. He averaged five marks across seven outings for the Chargers, and has the kind of weapons which point towards high upside in a draft not entirely stacked with high-end tall options.

OCTOBER RANKING: #31

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Despite his impressive aerial showings throughout the season, Gruzewski did not quite translate it to combine results but remains an exciting long-term option. Although, his 2km time trial was skewed by a terrific act of sportsmanship, as he stopped to help a stumbling Lewis Hayes over the line. With great marking potential at either end of the ground, Gruzewski is player another vying for selection in the 20s.

SILKY SKILLS

Touted as one of the most promising West Australian prospects coming into 2022, Gilbey had his top-age campaign undone by injury but still managed to show glimpses of his top-end talent. The Claremont defender was an AFL Academy selection but came down with glandular fever early in the year, before eventually getting going at both college and WAFL Colts level. At 187cm, his handy intercept ability and exquisite left-foot kicking are among his weapons, with those traits shining as he got into the swing of things in state colours.

OCTOBER RANKING: #35

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Though his top-age sample is small, Gilbey possesses a range of weapons which will likely have him even higher than this point on clubs’ draft boards. The rangy half-back hurts opposition sides and should clubs look past his injury setbacks – currently a broken leg –  the West Australian should have little trouble ending up on an AFL list.

THE X-FACTOR

Another top talent tied to Essendon, Munkara’s eligibility to don the sash at AFL level is pending whether he attracts a bid within the first 40 picks. At his best, the Northern Territory native is a mercurial talent who does things others can only dream of on-field. He can kick off both feet, has the athleticism to take high marks at 187cm, the power to shrug off tacklers, and the goal sense to win games off his own boot. Munkara moved down to South Australia to press his claims with West Adelaide and Westminster College, and looks a real talent with raw attributes to enhance.

OCTOBER RANKING: #36

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Having gone the unconventional route of staying somewhat off the national radar to play college football, albeit while also enduring an ankle injury, Munkara performed well in the explosive elements of combine testing but sat out the 2km time trial. A Brisbane fan, he seems enamoured by the potential of ending up at Essendon via its NGA, and may well get his wish.

ACE IN THE PACK

The sole 2003-born player to feature in our top 50 list, Gallagher has emerged as somewhat of an ace in the pack. Having cut his teeth as a crafty midfielder-forward, the Bendigo Pioneers leader found his niche with a shift to defence, where his enormous running capacity and classy ball use by foot came to the fore. His numbers towards the back-end of the NAB League season were utterly insane, as the over-ager eventually blew the representative door down to cap his year with Vic Country honours. He seems to have matured massively this season, and helped turned his region’s fortunes around in the final few games.

OCTOBER RANKING: #40

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Gallagher’s late-season revival was nothing short of remarkable, and put him well within second round contention. He is a rare over-ager in this kind of range, and the sole prospect born before 2004 to feature in our top 50 having set the NAB League alight with enviable production levels in a new role. Recruiters will like the new strings to his bow, pitting him as a genuine draft chance having missed out on two intakes already.

THE DECORATED JUNIOR

There are few juniors who can lay claim to the list of accolades Hagan has accumulated over the years. The East Fremantle product from Geraldton made the move to Perth and has won over recruiters through his sheer body of work, consolidated by an outstanding top-age season. The competitive and professional youngster debuted at WAFL Colts level as a 15-year-old and played eight League games this year, punching above his weight for years as a prospect with neat skills and the footy IQ to play in any position.

OCTOBER RANKING: Unranked

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Despite his 175cm standing, Hagan has just about proven undeniable in terms of his draft credentials. He impressed as a forward at League level, played midfield as a Colt, and looks comfortable down back – suggesting he could slot into a variety of roles at the next level. Though he may not have the flair or power of others, his pure footballing nous, work ethic and adaptability look likely to override any concerns over his size. He’d be a very handy second to third round option and seems to love proving people wrong.

SCORE INVOLVEMENT SPECIALIST

A strong driver of the ball into attack, Blake Drury is the sort who bleeds for whatever team he represents. The small midfielder-forward has guts which defy his size, complimented by the ability to consistently rack up touches and pump the ball into dangerous areas. The question mark comes regarded whether he will play on-ball at the next level, but he held his own there as a top-ager while proving his worth as a hard-running high half-forward who can hit the scoreboard. In many games across school and NAB League level this year, his score involvements were through the roof.

OCTOBER RANKING: #33

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Drury’s spot seems to be as a hard-running forward, and clubs will undoubtedly see the value in him as an impactful prospect in the second to third round range. He is somewhat a small who play’s a bigger player’s game, so it will be interesting to see how that translates to the next level. The intensity and work rate he shows each week are a couple of non-negotiables which should further endear him to coaches and recruiters alike.

TOUGH AND TENACIOUS

A small midfielder who, through injury, was made to improvise part-time as a forward in 2022, Long remains a chance to be picked up having made good on his opportunities as a top-ager. Highly touted coming into the year, his clean skills at ground level and work ethic translate well to both roles, and Long’s tenacious showings on the big stage have him poised right on the precipice of our top 40. Whether it be for Vic Country, the Bendigo Pioneers, or Geelong Grammar, Long gave his all this year.

OCTOBER RANKING: Unranked

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Having returned strong form post-injury, Long proved his ability to adapt quickly to the challenges of a slightly altered role and regained some of the notoriety he earned as a bottom-ager. He looms as a viable mid-draft selection who will have eyes on midfield time, but has another valuable string to his bow.

CLEAN HANDS AND CLEARANCES

A strong clearance specialist with quick and clean hands, D’Aloia is one of the most well-known South Australian prospects given his exploits in the state Under 19 squad last year. Also best afield in last year’s SANFL Under 18 grand final, the 18-year-old was a ray of consistency throughout 2022 in a team which sat second-last, before stepping up to Reserves level. D’Aloia is perhaps a touch more physically developed than his peers, and takes full toll with his size.

OCTOBER RANKING: #28

POWER PLAY(ER)

In a draft plentiful of midfielder-forwards, Magor is one with plenty of power. The South Adelaide talent has the capacity to hurt the opposition in front of goal, booting 23 goals in 10 SANFL Under 18s games on either side of an untimely injury which ruled him out of state representative duties. Magor also has the ability to be a clean ball winner on either side of midfield, averaging four clearances a game and remaining in the back of recruiters’ mind while he sat on the sidelines. His hurt factor and versatility are high points of his overall profile, which offers plenty of promise.

OCTOBER RANKING: #38

CHIP OFF THE OLD BLOCK

North Melbourne has nominated Harvey, the son of AFL games record holder Brent, as a father-son candidate and he could well end up in blue and white via the National Draft. Some clubs rate him as a mid-draft prospect, with his blend of toughness and clean handling on the inside standing out alongside the strong goal sense seemingly passed down to him. Harvey was just about immediately the Northern Knights’ best player each time he turned out for them, and overcame repeat arm injuries to help Assumption College take out the AGSV title en route to a Vic Metro call-up.

OCTOBER RANKING: Unranked

THE CRAFTY KICKER

Sadler was unleashed across all three SANFL levels in 2022, bringing his clean and crafty skills to the fore for Sturt. The 180cm talent provides a good amount of drive on the attack, able to navigate his way out of stoppages with agility and smarts, but also capable of jetting off on the outside. Able to roll forward, and likely to spend more time there as he climbs the grades, Sadler can deal damage to the opposition with his slick skills and decision making. He earned a National Combine invite and finished his season with consistently strong numbers in the Under 18 grade.

OCTOBER RANKING: Unranked

THE ULTIMATE ATHLETE

Though unable to show his wares at the National Draft Combine, McCallum is a terrific all-round athlete whose ability translates well to his on-field feats. The Tasmanian cut his teeth as a centre half-forward last year, but found a home down back in 2022 where his combination of aerial ability and rebound run proved damaging. At 192cm, he’s a truly unique prospect whose speed-endurance mix sees him carve up the opposition when in full flight. He earned Allies selection and quickly locked down his place there, also proving a core member of Tassie’s team with averages of 14 disposals and five marks.

OCTOBER RANKING: Unranked

THE ULTIMATE UTILITY

There are few more impressive characters than Gillbee, who moved down from Baranald in New South Wales to Bendigo in pursuit of his footballing dream. The Allies representative showed his wares playing a variety of roles; rebounding and locking down off half-back, testing himself on either side of midfield, and even playing somewhat tall up forward. The 191cm prospect seems suited to the outside where his elite running capacity shines. It shone at the draft combine too, where he finished equal-first in the 2km time trial (5:54).

OCTOBER RANKING: Unranked

ONE-ON-ONE GUN

A steadfast tall defender who thrives in contested situations, Van Es is a deceptively athletic talent who could explode at the next level. The GWV Rebels and Vic Country backman tore up the draft combine, finishing top for both jumping tests and in the top five across 20m. On-field, he fares well aerially with sound intercept abilities and a 99kg frame which many juniors simply could not match. His steady averages of 12 disposals, four marks and four rebound 50s across 12 NAB League games showcase strong potential, with room to lift his endurance and in-game consistency. He may be a mid to late key position option of great quality.

OCTOBER RANKING: Unranked

An absolute running machine capable of accumulating possessions on the outside, Binns could hardly be faulted for effort in 2022. Plying his trade for Dandenong and Caulfield Grammar, the wingman/forward helped both sides secure a spot in their respective deciders, also earning Vic Country representation along the way. A 39-disposal outing against the Allies was his crowning performance, and though there is some polish to add in the way of kicking, Binns has AFL traits which will surely appeal. Take his six-minute flat 2km time trial, for example – ranked third at the draft combine.

OCTOBER RANKING: Unranked

THE PROTOTYPE

A modern day player who combines a strong athletic profile with footballing nous, Teal fits the bill as a prospect recruiters tend to favour. His size and ability to cover the ground are clear assets, which have served him well in a season interrupted by injury. After appendicitis scuppered his start to the year, Teal suffered a collarbone injury but still managed to make it on the park for the AFL Academy, Oakleigh Chargers, and Vic Metro. He has the capacity to compete in defence, contributing aerially and across the ground as a high-upside talent with terrific kicking range.

OCTOBER RANKING: #34

Macdonald thrust himself into the draft frame late in 2022 after impressing for Wesley College in the APS competition, carrying his momentum into four outings with the Oakleigh Chargers and an eventual call-up for Vic Metro. The 18-year-old speedster offers incredible explosive speed which he often leans on as a run-and-gun half-back/wingman, breaking lines with weaving runs. He may not yet be a high accumulator, but has strong upside in his blend of athletic traits and neat kicking skills. He would be a selection made on potential, likely in the late stages of the draft.

OCTOBER RANKING: Unranked