2017 Draft Watch

[Bornadog]

Re: 2017 Draft Watch

As high as 40! I thought he'd be a work in progress at best, so much later in the draft perhaps 60-70 or so. One to watch on draft night to see just how high he can go.

Chance at 79 you think

[bulldogtragic]

Re: 2017 Draft Watch

Chance at 79 you think

I'm hoping he's around as he's something different we don't have, although we are linked to Barry too apparently. If there's a still a couple of handful of project players maybe they also slip to Pick 9 in the RD.

[Mofra]

Re: 2017 Draft Watch

TheRoar: AFL mock draft 2017: Top 30
Interesting read with the reasoning behind their picks between Maddy Friend and Josh Elliott. 15 Nov 2017

Honestly, I'd be a little disappointed if that played out.

Darcy Fogarty has a lot of question marks although I guess they all do (Can Coffield transition to the midfield?)

Lachie O'Brien's contested ball numbers are worse than Cale Morton and Jimmy Toumpas. I'm warming to a smaller type (Lachie Fogarty or Jack Higgins) with one of our picks, a kid who can play pressure forward as they build the tank to take midfield rotations.

[Bornadog]

Re: 2017 Draft Watch

DRAFT BOLTER - Brisbane Lions considering Andrew Brayshaw in a potential No.1 pick surprise,

[bulldogtragic]

Re: 2017 Draft Watch

DRAFT BOLTER - Brisbane Lions considering Andrew Brayshaw in a potential No.1 pick surprise,

Wow. That's a huge bolt from a few months back.

[chef]

Re: 2017 Draft Watch

Any guesses where Sambono ends up? He seems to have a little media attention now.

Back to Daly River by mid season.

[bulldogtragic]

Re: 2017 Draft Watch

Back to Daly River by mid season.

Enough said.

[chef]

Re: 2017 Draft Watch

Enough said.

My son inlaw played with him at Thunder and he apparently struggled with the hussle and bussle of Darwin and went walkabout back home a few times.

He'll be quite the gamble, he is very talented though. More of a rookie option.

[anfo27]

Re: 2017 Draft Watch

Where do posters think Ethan Floyd will go? Very impressive highlights

[choconmientay]

Re: 2017 Draft Watch

Where do posters think Ethan Floyd will go? Very impressive highlights

Not a Junior footy follower but I have read on the draftcentral, Matt Balmer rated him at 43.

#43 Ethan FLOYD
Outside Midfielder (Geelong Falcons/Vic Country)
15/07/1999 | 180.0cm | 70.7kg

Scouting notes: Outside midfielder who possesses a pinpoint left foot pass. Can run hard all day on the wing and has a good mix of speed and endurance – standing out in his bright boot. He has the ability to play across half back and provides good rebound and can get the ball inside 50 and find a target.

Strengths: Kicking penetration, speed, endurance, ground coverage
Improvements: Inside game, foot skills under pressure, tackling numbers

Combine test results: 20m Sprint (secs) – 2.98 | Agility (secs) – 8.46 | Yo-Yo Test (level) – 21.5

[choconmientay]

Re: 2017 Draft Watch

I came across a name familiar to all of us in this article: AFL draft 2017: The best mature-age prospects from SANFL and NEAFL clubs could consider


.....
Matthew Panos (Norwood)

Age: 26

Position: Midfielder

2017 SANFL average numbers: Kicked 17 goals and averaged 26 disposals, 13 contested possessions, 7 clearances, 7 score involvements and 125 Champion Data ranking points from 14 games.

HE might be closer to 30 than 20, but Panos has shown over recent years that he has ample to offer as a big-bodied midfielder. After spending 2010 to 2012 on the Bulldogs’ list, Panos has continued to impress at SANFL level, averaging over one goal per game in 2017 and the most score involvements for any midfielder. Panos has also proven himself as a big-game player in recent years, standing up in finals several times.

[choconmientay]

Re: 2017 Draft Watch

Some interesting rating by Champion Data


Champion Data draft rankings
AFL DRAFT NEWS
Champion Data rates the top 30 draft prospects with a shock at No.1 edging out Cameron Rayner
SAM LANDSBERGER, Herald Sun, November 16, 2017 6:00pm
Subscriber only

CHAMPION Data, the AFL’s statistics guru, has come up with some surprising selections as it ranks its top 30 picks in this year’s draft.


While a lot of smaller players have starred in junior ranks, a question mark hangs over whether they will be taken early in next Friday’s national draft and, in many cases, the Herald Sun’s draft expert Sam Landsberger is not confident they will.

Last year Champion Data, which keeps stats on hundreds of junior games every year starting at under-16 level, ranked Jack Graham at No.22 on its power rankings. He fell to No.53 in the draft where he was snapped up Richmond and went on to play a key role in a premiership.

Which juniors have impressed the Champion scouts this year?

1. JACK HIGGINS (Oakleigh Chargers)

178cm forward

Averaged 145 SuperCoach points in 33 junior games, pipping Tom Rockliff. Consistently ranks elite for disposals, contested possessions and score involvements.

SAM SAYS: Huge shock at No.1. Likely to be 11-20, perhaps to GWS or West Coast. If the decorated and dedicated footy tragic was 10cm taller and a touch quicker, he’d be in No.1 mix.


2. CAMERON RAYNER (Western Jets)

187cm half-forward

Kicked 49 goals from 27 matches covered by Champion Data and oozes X-factor. Led the national championships goalkicking with 12 for Vic Metro.

SAM SAYS: Favourite to join the Lions at No.1 as a goalkicker who can swing a match. Think Dustin Martin with a question mark — can Rayner build a fitness tank?

3. JAIDYN STEPHENSON (Eastern Ranges)

189cm midfielder/forward

Exploded with Vic Metro, averaging 27 disposals, 11 contested possessions, a goal and 132 SuperCoach points. Topped that off with 22 disposals and three goals in the AFL Grand Final curtain-raiser.

SAM SAYS: Heart condition has clubs including St Kilda and Fremantle scrambling for last-minute cardiology reports, but a freakish line-breaking talent with strong endurance.

4. ANDREW BRAYSHAW (Sandringham Dragons)

183cm midfielder

Mr Consistent, winning more than 20 disposals and 100 SuperCoach points in all 10 TAC Cup matches. Ranked No.1 in TAC Cup for score assists and kicked eight goals himself.

SAM SAYS: Best kid in the draft looks a future AFL captain. Led Haileybury to school flag with clean hands and has ties to Kangas, where uncle James was president. Freo a big fan. Lions coach Chris Fagan would be happy with him at No.1.


Andrew Brayshaw in action for Vic Metro.


5. LUKE DAVIES-UNIACKE (Dandenong Stingrays)

187cm midfielder

Disposal efficiency ranked No.1 of all players to average more than 10 contested possessions. Above average contested and clearance player.

SAM SAYS: Should go top three. Keen surfer from Rye wouldn’t mind Perth beaches (Fremantle) and Mum has a house in Brisbane. Speed and power away from stoppages have him No.1 at multiple clubs.

6. PADDY DOW (Bendigo Pioneers)

184cm midfielder

Ranked top five for contested possessions and clearances at the national carnival and hit scoreboard with three goals and five assists.

SAM SAYS: Unlikely to go No.1 but could be Carlton’s man at No.3. Swan Hill boy managed a challenging travel schedule and is recovering from a shoulder reco. Similar to “LDU” but a touch less class by foot.

7. ADAM CERRA (Eastern Ranges)

186cm midfielder

Injuries in past two years the question mark. A ball winner who can go forward, ranking elite in disposals, contested possessions, goals and score involvements in 2017 TAC Cup.

SAM SAYS: Classy inside-outside midfielder who Eastern reckons would be the No.1 pick if not for injuries. In mix at most early selections and unlikely to get past St Kilda at No.7 or 8.

8. LACHLAN FOGARTY (Western Jets)

179cm inside midfielder/forward

Fantastic pressure numbers and scoreboard impact suggest he’s an ideal small forward. Highest ranked TAC Cup player, averaging 145 SuperCoach points and 9.7 tackles.

SAM SAYS: Defensive mindset and ferocious tackling straight out of Richmond’s premiership playbook. Lions could pair him with close mate Rayner in the first round to help them settle. Dogs lurking with pick No.16.

9. DYLAN MOORE (Eastern Ranges)

175cm midfielder

Average of 130 SuperCoach points, No.7 in the TAC Cup. Ranked elite in contested possessions, ground-ball gets and goals. Averaged 114 SuperCoach points for Vic Metro, named All-Australian.

SAM SAYS: Brilliant runner with a great work ethic, but the little fella won’t go in the first round and perhaps not even the second. Think premiership Tiger Kane Lambert.

10. OSCAR ALLEN (West Perth)

191cm key forward

Ranked in the top two key forwards at the national championships for disposals, marks, contested marks and score involvements. His 11 goals second only to Cam Rayner.

SAM SAYS: Will be a lead-up third tall at AFL level and likely to be considered by GWS at No.11 and Sydney at No.14. Won the Larke Medal as the best player at the championships.

11. AARON NAUGHTON (Peel Thunder)

194cm key defender

Won most disposals and SuperCoach points for key defenders at the championships and ranked second for intercept possessions and intercept marks.

SAM SAYS: Fremantle, Collingwood and St Kilda have shown interest and if he slips past them he’s likely to be a Western Bulldog at No.9. Played seven senior WAFL games as a left-footed modern defender and intercept star.

12. HUNTER CLARK (Dandenong Stingrays)

186cm inside midfielder

Averaged 129 SuperCoach points when playing midfield, ranking elite for disposals, contested possessions and clearances and above average for uncontested possessions, goals, assists, score involvements and tackles.

SAM SAYS: St Kilda will consider at No.7 or 8 and Adelaide would love him to reach No.12. Won Stingrays’ best-and-fairest by a record margin from only 12 games. Blue-chip pick and great kick on both feet.

13. CHARLIE CONSTABLE (Sandringham Dragons)

190cm inside midfielder

Big-game player. Home-and-away SuperCoach average of 109 rose to 120 in finals, topped yet again by 121 at national carnival where he averaged second-most disposals (26).

SAM SAYS: Not a great runner and lacks zip, but a natural footballer. Great size, but the question marks could push him into the 20s.

14. NICK COFFIELD (Northern Knights)

190cm half-back

Knights captain ranked in top 100 TAC Cup players for clearances, uncontested possessions, intercept marks and goals. Genuine utility.

SAM SAYS: Is Coffield one who could slip out of the top 10? Looks best suited to half-back, where he can play tall, small and boasts quick acceleration.

15. BRENT DANIELS (Bendigo Pioneers)

172cm small forward

TAC Cup average of 112 SuperCoach points was impressive considering an even midfield-forward split. Won 49 per cent of his possessions contested in 14 Champion Data games this year.

SAM SAYS: Geelong Grammar boy. Another short player high on Champion Data’s list. Has a knack of just getting the job done and looks a third-round pick.

16. JORDAN HOULAHAN (Sturt)

185cm forward

Kicked 91 goals in 52 Champion Data games in past three years. Marking forward but has won more than 18 disposals only once.

SAM SAYS: Quiet kid who plays with pizzazz. Good mark and could be trialled in defence, Jeremy Howe-style. Probably a late second-round selection.

17. SAM HAYES (Eastern Ranges)

203cm key forward/ruckman

Top-ranked ruckman in TAC Cup. His 16 disposals ranks elite, along with contested possessions, uncontested possessions, marks, hit-outs to advantage, clearances and score involvements.

SAM SAYS: Dual All-Australian with long arms will require patience. Low endurance means he’s more key forward than a ruckman. Once thought a top-five pick but could float into the second round.

18. OSCAR CLAVARINO (Dandenong Stingrays)

195cm key defender

The No.1 player for intercept possessions and marks in the TAC Cup and national carnival. Took 40 intercept marks in 12 matches this year.

SAM SAYS: Loves challenge of playing on No.1 forward and reads the play like a picture book. Expect him to go between picks 20-40.

19. GYRAN MIERS (Geelong Falcons)

177cm small forward

Big-game performer who booted seven goals in TAC Cup grand final and 50 for season, six more than any other player in the TAC Cup.

SAM SAYS: Dreadlocked kid with uncanny goal sense. Who needs a small forward with a later pick? Maybe GWS to replace Devon Smith?

20. HARRISON PETTY (Norwood)

194cm key defender

South Australia’s best player at national carnival. A rock in defence and won more one-on-one contests than any other player, losing only 14.2 per cent of the time.

SAM SAYS: Boy from the bush blossomed after a shift to the backline. Was barely on draft radar 12 months ago but could charge into the top 30. Has spoken to every club except Brisbane.


21. DARCY FOGARTY (Glenelg)

192cm forward

Reputation built on glimpses rather than volume. In 2016 he played mainly as a forward and kicked four goals against the Allies in his best game.

SAM SAYS: Favoured to go No.1 at start of year before slipping with injures. Powerful and a sharp kick, is still in the top-10 mix with the Kangas, Pies, Dogs and Blues.

22. JOEL GARNER (Eastern Ranges)

183cm defender

Won more than 20 disposals in only four of 38 matches covered by Champion Data, but is a general in defence. Had 29 intercept possessions in the championships, ranked No.2.

SAM SAYS: Left-footed indigenous talent who captained the AIS, Vic Metro and Eastern Ranges this year. Attends Scotch College and will be considered in the 20s and 30s.

23. BRAYDEN CROSSLEY (Gold Coast academy/Labrador)

198cm ruckman

Led the national championships for hit-outs and was the No.1 ruckman for contested possessions and clearances.

SAM SAYS: Aggressive and performed well after battling glandular fever over summer. But rucks very rarely go early and Crossley looks a third-rounder.

24. SAM TAYLOR (Swan Districts)

196cm key defender

Played at all three WAFL levels, including seven senior and eight colts games. Ranked No.1 for intercept marks and possessions in the colts, also averaging 19 disposals.

SAM SAYS: Will be strong enough to man the gorilla spearheads one day. Good closing speed and All-Australian honours. Will appeal as a pick from the 20s on.

25. STEFAN GIRO (Norwood)

175cm midfielder

Averaged more than 99 SuperCoach points in the SANFL under-18s and the SANFL reserves in 2016, 2017 and at this year’s national carnival.

SAM SAYS: Impressive form in the SANFL reserves and runs both ways, but a huge surprise he’s here. Late pick or could still be available in the rookie draft.

26. CHARLIE SPARGO (Murray Bushrangers)

173cm small forward

In the 2015 under-16 championships he averaged 29 disposals, 2.5 goals and 219 SuperCoach points, winning the Alan McLean Medal as the best division two player.

SAM SAYS: Rarely sighted since 2015 and shoulder surgery ruined this year. But clever and tenacious little forward in Boomer Harvey mould. Former GWS academy. Father Paul played 81 games for North.

27. NOAH BALTA (Calder Cannons)

194cm utility

Played ruck and key forward in TAC Cup and key defender for Vic Metro. Only TAC Cup player to rank in top 70 for intercept marks, hit-outs and goals.

SAM SAYS: Where does he play at AFL level? Enjoyed some freakish patches and looks a second-round pick.

28. JAKE PATMORE (Claremont)

181cm midfielder

Best ball winner in WAFL colts, averaging 29.3 disposals and rating elite for both contested and uncontested possessions. Won second-most possessions of any Western Australian at the championships.

SAM SAYS: Ball magnet who shed 10kg in two months this year to begin climbing up the draft order. Accumulator who could fall in the second round.

29. BRAYDEN AINSWORTH (Subiaco)

184cm inside midfielder

Won more clearances than any other player and ranked second for contested possessions at national carnival.

SAM SAYS: Moved 700km from Esperance to Perth to take footy more seriously. Dedicated stoppage player and All-Australian looks a later pick. Turns 19 this month.

30. ANDREW McPHERSON (Woodville-West Torrens)

186cm halfback

Underage numbers suggest he could be an Alex Witherden-type steal. In 2016 SANFL under-18s he averaged 27 disposals and 132 SuperCoach points as a half-back flanker.

SAM SAYS: Quad and hamstring injuries ruined the rebounding runner’s year. Unreliable body likely to push him into the third round. Carlton might consider at No.30

NOTABLE OUTS

First-round prospects who didn’t make Champion Data’s cut

Aiden Bonar

Nathan Murphy

Jarrod Brander

Lochie O’Brien

Patrick Naish

[LostDoggy]

Re: 2017 Draft Watch

Interesting table. I really like Higgins, reckon he'd be a great complement to our list if he's still available at 16. Hoping more and more we take best available slider at 9 (Stephenson, Cerra, Coffield or Clark ideally) and either Higgins, L.Fogarty or Zac Bailey at 16.

[Bornadog]

Re: 2017 Draft Watch

Cal Twomey's Phantom form guide: November edition


Part 1: Top 16

1 Cameron Rayner

POS: Half-forward/midfielder, Ht 187cm, Wt 88kg, DOB 21/10/1999
From Western Jets/Vic Metro
October ranking: 1

Rayner is the most exciting, game-changing prospect in the pool and for that reason is the No.1 player in the Phantom Form Guide. It was rare for Rayner to play a game this year without showing at least a couple of his tricks – whether it be an explosive burst from a stoppage, a smart overhead grab, a lead and mark out of the goalsquare, or a dashing, brilliant run and then long kick (he can do it on both feet). The 18-year-old had a brilliant national championships for Vic Metro and established himself as the standout prospect and one who will shape games for many years.

Where does he go? Being strongly considered for the Brisbane Lions' pick No.1 and would be a deserving choice. If not, Fremantle at pick No.2 and Carlton at No.3 would be ready to swoop. North would jump at him if he surprisingly got through all of them and was available at No.4.

2 Luke Davies-Uniacke

POS: Midfielder, Ht 187cm, Wt 85kg, DOB 8/6/1999
From Dandenong Stingrays/Vic Country
October ranking: 2

If recruiters needed any reminding of Davies-Uniacke's game-breaking qualities, they got it during the TAC Cup finals series when the midfielder performed at his best. His standout effort against the Eastern Ranges in the elimination final was immense, and highlighted his power and strength at the contest and then his burst away from a stoppage. Davies-Uniacke appeals as one of the most complete midfielders in the pool and deserves to be an early pick.

Where does he go? Is one of the names in the No.1 race for the Lions, and seems unlikely to get past North Melbourne's No.4 pick. Fremantle at No.2 is a red-hot chance.


3 Paddy Dow

POS: Midfielder, Ht 184cm, Wt 78kg, DOB 16/10/1999
From Bendigo Pioneers/Vic Country
October ranking: 3

There really isn't much that Dow doesn't do well. He is a competitive midfielder with a real burst of speed that allows him to accelerate out of trouble and find space. The Vic Country prospect rose quickly across the season to be one of the genuine standout players, showing he can win the ball, use it on the outside well and also push forward and kick goals, which he loves to do (and does regularly). He's tough and doesn't mind the hustle and bustle, but also is clean and poised. Dow is also very consistent: you can rely on him to play well every time he steps out on the field.

Where does he go? Been strongly linked to the Blues' No.3 pick if still on the board and seems a good fit there. But the Dockers would have to pass for that to happen and he's in their thoughts. North's as well at No.4.

4 Adam Cerra

POS: Midfielder, Ht 186cm, Wt 85kg, DOB 7/10/1999
From Eastern Ranges/Vic Metro
October ranking: 4

Cerra brings real poise and class to the draft pool. He's also a very tough midfielder, who doesn't shy away from big hits in order to win the footy and get it going for his team. He can be trusted with the ball to set up the play, and averaged 26 disposals a game this year for the Eastern Ranges. Although he is already rated highly, it would be interesting to see where he fitted in if had a clean run at things over the past two years (a knee injury ruined his 2016 campaign before a shoulder reconstruction prematurely ended this season). A cool head under pressure.

Where does he go? It won't be the Lions at No.1, but Cerra looks a likely top-10 pick. Carlton likes him, North has been linked, and Collingwood (No.6) would think very hard if he gets past Fremantle at No.5.

5 Jaidyn Stephenson

POS: Half-forward, Ht 189cm, Wt 76kg, DOB 15/1/1999
From Eastern Ranges/Vic Metro
October ranking: 5

It was a terrific end to the season for Stephenson, who progressed from the forward line to the midfield and showed he can find more of the ball and impact games more consistently. There's not really another player with Stephenson's set of skills: he's very quick (he ran a 2.95-second sprint at the Draft Combine) and has also proven his endurance, he can jump high and take big grabs, he's crafty around goal and takes the game on. Clearly the heart irregularity that surfaced at the Combine has some clubs concerned about Stephenson, but when assessing him purely as a prospect he remains in the top rung.

Where does he go? Fremantle's pick No.5 seems the earliest he could get taken, Collingwood and St Kilda have been linked to him as well, while he could get through to the Giants or Swans.

6 Andrew Brayshaw

POS: Midfielder, Ht 183cm, Wt 80kg, DOB 8/11/1999
From Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro
October ranking: 6

Brayshaw has risen to prominence on the back of a monster second half of the season where he proved himself as a top midfield prospect. The younger brother of Melbourne midfielder Angus powered home for the Sandringham Dragons, and highlighted his all-round traits. There's nothing that Brayshaw really struggles with: he's a very good kick, pushes forward and kicks goals, he has a good inside and outside balance, he's tough and runs really strongly. He was a standout at the NAB AFL Draft Combine with top-end endurance testing and will be ready to play.

Where does he go? Brayshaw has been in the No.1 pick discussion for a while and is a good chance to head to the Lions. He has family in Perth and the Dockers are an option, as are North Melbourne and Collingwood. It seems unlikely he'll get to the Saints.

7 Darcy Fogarty

POS: Half-forward/midfielder, Ht 192cm, Wt 92kg, DOB 25/9/1999
From Glenelg/South Australia
October ranking: 7

The South Australian forward is back running after a mid-season operation on his knee that prematurely ended his 2017 campaign. Fogarty is a powerful player who has a genuine presence whenever he's around the ball and tends to make things happen. He is one of the best kicks in the draft as well with a penetrating right foot that can set up the play. The 18-year-old is tough and tenacious and has spent times at half-back and in the midfield, but will be drafted as a forward.

Where does he go? North has put in time on Fogarty for its No.4 pick, while Collingwood has also been linked to him. Carlton, at pick 10, is a chance, as is Greater Western Sydney (pick 11). Adelaide would strongly consider if he gets through to No.12.

8 Jack Higgins

POS: Small forward/midfielder, Ht 178cm, Wt 76kg, DOB 19/3/1999
From Oakleigh Chargers/Vic Metro
October ranking: 8

What more could Higgins have done? If we're being honest, there's very little the Oakleigh Chargers gun didn't achieve across his under-18 career. Higgins won the Morrish Medal this year as the TAC Cup's best player, he claimed Vic Metro's MVP at the championships and is the best small forward in the pool. His size will likely mean he gets drafted a little later than this point, but he is a smart, tidy and efficient player who should feature a fair bit at AFL level next year.

Where does he go? An interesting one. Greater Western Sydney likes him and he'll be a chance for 11, while West Coast has also watched him closely. Richmond and the Bulldogs will look at him with their picks later in the first round.

9 Hunter Clark

POS: Half-back/midfielder, Ht 186cm, Wt 79kg, DOB 26/3/1999
From Dandenong Stingrays/Vic Country
October ranking: 9

Clark successfully showed the recruiting world he was much more than a dashing half-back this season by becoming a hardened and consistent midfielder. The Dandenong Stingrays teenager is a nice kick on both feet, courageous in the air and a player loved by his teammates for his tough and unflinching approach. Clark doesn't appear rushed very often but he's a smart player always thinking ahead and after averaging 26 disposals at TAC Cup level he had a very consistent year.

Where does he go? St Kilda has been linked to Clark with its pair of top-10 picks, while Carlton (pick No.10), GWS (No.11), Adelaide (No.12) and West Coast (No.13) will all have a look.

10. Aaron Naughton

POS: Key defender, Ht 194cm, Wt 84kg, DOB 30/11/1999
From Peel Thunder/Western Australia
October ranking: 12

Naughton has established himself as the best key defender in the draft after an impressive second half of the season playing at senior level in the WAFL. Athletically Naughton is very strong – he was a great performer at the Draft Combine, finishing in the top 10 for agility and the Yo-Yo endurance test – and that comes through in his game. Opponents find it hard to get away from him, and he manages to get in a spoil when he looks out of position. Naughton's kicking is an area of his game that can improve.

Where does he go? Collingwood has long been linked as being very interested in bringing in Naughton and could go for him at No.6. St Kilda is weighing him up, and the Western Bulldogs are also interested. It's hard to see Naughton being available past the Swans' pick 14.

11 Nick Coffield

POS: Midfielder/half-back, Ht 190cm, Wt 83kg, DOB 23/10/1999
From Northern Knights/Vic Metro
October ranking: 10

The speedy half-back presents as a good all-round option for clubs looking for a general defender who can play on a range of forwards. Coffield, who was captain of the Northern Knights in the TAC Cup, also moved into the midfield at times throughout the season. He ran 2.90 seconds in the 20m sprint at the Combine so can really take off and tuck the ball under his arm to create some rebound.

Where does he go? Has been heavily linked to the Saints for some time. Adelaide, West Coast and Carlton could also consider.

12. Jarrod Brander

POS: Key defender/key forward, Ht 194cm, Wt 89kg, DOB 11/2/1999
From Bendigo Pioneers/Allies
October ranking: 11

Brander remains one of the best key-position players available, but has probably dropped down the order a touch after an inconsistent year. In some ways it's understandable – Brander spent his season being thrown from one end of the ground to the other and didn't have that continuity of position that others do. When up and going Brander is a player who leads smartly and can mark strongly, is a nice kick and reads the game well. Was formerly a part of Greater Western Sydney's academy but is in the open draft now.

Where does he go? Looks set to slip down the order a little. The Giants will take a look at No.11, but he could get through to the Brisbane Lions' and Richmond's picks later in the first round.

13. Patrick Naish

POS: Midfielder, Ht 183cm, Wt 73kg, DOB 15/1/1999
From Northern Knights/Vic Metro
October ranking: 13

The Richmond father-son prospect had an excellent season as a developing midfielder with great run and carry and drive from the wing. Naish is relatively lightly framed and plays best on the outside, but his ability to make ground for his side, as well as his penetrating and precise kicking, gives him genuine tricks. Made the under-18 All Australian side after a strong carnival for Vic Metro and can comfortably be used across half-forward having proved his craft around goal.

Where does he go? The Tigers will be hopeful a bid doesn't come for Naish until after their third pick (No.25 overall) and that's possible. Western Bulldogs (No.16), Geelong (No.22 and 24) and North Melbourne (No.23) are the biggest threats.

14. Ed Richards

POS: Medium defender, Ht 184cm, Wt 77kg, DOB 3/7/1999
From Oakleigh Chargers
October ranking: 17

Richards was one of the surprises of this year's group, having not played for Vic Metro at the championships. However, he stormed up the board as a likely first-round pick with an impressive end to the season with the Oakleigh Chargers. The classy and quick left-footer gave good drive out of the back line, he's very poised with his disposals and doesn't get flustered, and he has the no-nonsense approach of a natural footballer. With speed and good ball use a priority for clubs out of defence it's easy to see why recruiters have enjoyed Richards' rise.

Where does he go? Richards is attending the draft next week so is in the mix as an early pick. The Western Bulldogs are interested, Greater Western Sydney is a chance as are the Crows at No.12.

15. Lochie O'Brien

POS: Midfielder, Ht 184cm, Wt 75kg, DOB 18/9/1999
From Bendigo Pioneers/Vic Country
October ranking: 16

O'Brien has some serious weapons as a player that give him an edge over other prospects. His ball use on his preferred left foot is top-end, while he is one of the best runners in the crop (as evidenced at the Draft Combine when he came second in the 2km time trial). O'Brien had some challenges in finding his best consistently this season, with a knee injury hanging around during some important times of the year. But if a club is looking for a ball carrier and ball user, he would be a nice addition.

Where does he go? Carlton at No.10 is a slim chance if things fall a certain way. After that, Richmond and West Coast will have a look later on in the piece.

16. Oscar Allen

POS: Key forward, Ht 191cm, Wt 83kg, DOB 19/3/1999
From West Perth/Western Australia
October ranking: 18

Allen left nobody wondering about the type of player he is throughout 2017, with a consistent and hard-working season where the West Australian thrived as one of the better performed tall forwards. The West Perth product claimed the Larke Medal as the best player of the division one under-18 carnival after averaging nearly three goals a game, and then he starred on Grand Final morning with two goals from 18 disposals and seven marks in the All Stars clash.

Where does he go? He's in the mix for the Giants at No.11, and West Coast would look at No.13 as well. The Tigers and Gold Coast will also have a look at Allen later on in the top 20 if still available.

[Bornadog]

Re: 2017 Draft Watch

Part 2: 17 - 30

17. Aiden Bonar

POS: Forward, Ht 190cm, Wt 89kg, DOB 8/3/99
From Dandenong Stingrays
October ranking: 19

One of the most interesting storylines on draft night next week will be where Bonar ends up. Bonar has a fascinating tale, having already undergone two knee reconstructions (on the same knee) before returning in the last part of this season and showing good signs. As a forward he can mark well and has a good leap, and many think he can also become a big and strong midfielder in time. Certainly he has great athleticism, which he proved at the Combine by running 2.90 seconds over 20m and also equaling the all-time standing vertical jump record. There's talent there and he could be anything, but others are ahead on weight of performance.

Where does he go? Has been linked strongly to St Kilda's pair of top-10 picks but if he gets past there, the Giants (No.11) and Swans (No.14) will have a big look at Bonar.

18. Charlie Constable

POS: Midfielder, Ht 190cm, Wt 83kg, DOB 23/10/1999
From Sandringham Dragons/Vic Metro
October ranking: 15

Constable is a midfielder who gets his hands dirty at the contest and plays to his strengths. Those traits are winning the ball at clearances, feeding it off with quick and accurate handballs and seeing things unfold before others. The question all year has been about his damage on the outside and lack of run, but Constable complements others around him well. Played well in Sandringham Dragons' TAC Cup Grand Final loss (with 23 disposals, two goals) despite limited preparation with a groin injury.

Where does he go? It wouldn't surprise if Constable got through the first round and was available in the second round on draft night. At that stage, Geelong, North Melbourne and Carlton could be interested to add to their midfield.

19. Sam Hayes

POS: Ruckman/key forward, Ht 203cm, Wt 93kg, DOB 9/6/1999
From Eastern Ranges/Vic Metro
October ranking: 14

The Eastern Ranges big man is the only back-to-back All Australian in the draft pool, having played well for Vic Metro at the under-18 championships in the past two seasons. Hayes can play as a ruckman and a key forward, but clubs have largely ended the season seeing him as more of a forward option given his poor endurance base will restrict him from being a ruckman at the top level for some time. Nevertheless, Hayes is very skilled and can move with good agility for a player his size, and has shown himself to be a solid goalkicking option as well.

Where does he go? Looks set to drop down the draft board as clubs shy away from ruckmen with early picks. Richmond will be a chance, perhaps with No.25, as might the Giants with their pair of second-round selections. It wouldn't shock if Hayes is still on the board after pick 30.

20. Nathan Murphy

POS: Forward, Ht 188cm, Wt 83kg, DOB 15/12/99
From Brighton Grammar/Sandringham Dragons
October ranking: 20

Murphy's path to this year's draft is a little different to most of his contemporaries, having discarded a promising cricket career only months ago to focus on making it to the AFL. That looks set to unfold next week and it could be as a first-round choice. Murphy is a versatile player who can be used as a third tall at both ends of the ground. He kicks it well, can mark above his head and has a good goal sense when stationed in attack.

Where does he go? Murphy has been invited to the draft so is in some clubs' thoughts as an early pick. The Pies have watched plenty of him throughout the year and he's in the mix for No.6. Sydney, Richmond and the Bulldogs could also look at Murphy in the teens.

21. Matthew Ling

POS: Medium defender, Ht 182cm, Wt 74kg, DOB 21/4/1999
From Geelong Falcons/Vic Country
October ranking: 21

Ling will catch the eye. He bolts out of his side's defensive 50, takes on opponents with a nifty side step or two, and then uses his piercing left foot to spot up targets down the field. At this stage of his development Ling is considered more of an outside player, but he does this role well. Sometimes he can get himself in trouble by trying to bite off too much with his run, but he has genuine dare in his game and when it works it can lead to a goal. An important player in the Geelong Falcons' TAC Cup triumph.

Where does he go? Has some fans that rank him inside the top 20, but it would still be a little surprising if that's where his name is called on the night. In the 20-40 range is most likely.

22. Lachlan Fogarty

POS: Midfielder, Ht 179cm, Wt 75kg, DOB 1/4/1999
From Western Jets/Vic Metro
October ranking: 24

Fogarty does a lot of things well and would be a nice fit for a club looking to add to its small stocks. He performed strongly during the mid-year under-18 championships and was selected in the All Australian team, and when he plays in the midfield he's a busy prospect who can dig in and feed the handball or set up others with nice deft kicking. Then when he plays across half-forward, where he could start his AFL career, Fogarty has a good knack for chipping in with a goal or two a game.

Where does he go? The Brisbane Lions like Fogarty and he's a chance to head there at pick No.15 or 18. The Western Bulldogs could also take a look at the local product, while the Giants are also looking for a small forward and could turn to Fogarty.

23. Zac Bailey

POS: Midfielder, Ht 180cm, Wt 68kg, DOB 23/9/99
From Norwood/NT Thunder/NT
October ranking: 25

What you see is what you get with Bailey, who is a rough-and-tumble, quick, hard-at-it midfielder who enjoyed a consistent season. Bailey has gone under the radar a little this season but has produced good games at all levels he's played this year. The Northern Territory product moved to South Australia and has played in the SANFL for Norwood. He has real dash and dare when he gets the ball and takes off through the midfield.

Where does he go? Melbourne is a good chance if Bailey is still on the board at No.29. North Melbourne may jump in before that, however, with their second-round choice (No.23 overall) while he might fit for the Gold Coast at No.19.

24. Charlie Spargo

POS: Midfielder, Ht 173cm, Wt 73kg, DOB 25/11/99
From Murray Bushrangers/NSW-ACT
October ranking: None

Season-ending shoulder surgery after only one round of the under-18 championships has meant Spargo is a little out of sight, out of mind when assessing the top group of players available at the draft. But he hasn't lost his determined streak, which runs through Spargo's game and makes him a tough, competitive and dogged player who has been a consistent ball-winner at all levels he's played in recent years. He tackles hard, can go forward and belies his size to have an influence.

Where does he go? The Giants, having lost priority access to Spargo after their academy realignment, might still look at him at No.27 or 28. West Coast could consider as might Melbourne with one of its three second-rounders.

25. Charlie Ballard

POS: Midfielder, Ht 195cm, Wt 81kg, DOB 23/7/99
From Sturt/South Australia
October ranking: None

Ballard is something of a bolter, having grown in stature as the year went on. He ended the season playing in back-to-back premierships – featuring in Sturt's reserves and under-18 flags. The youngster grew 15cm in under two years and has transformed himself into a midfielder/wingman who can also be used in a key-position role. He has a flow to his game that allows him to run with the ball, and his athletic traits have been on show throughout the season.

Where does he go? Most expect Ballard gets called somewhere in the second round. Richmond will consider with its second-round picks, while St Kilda, Melbourne and Geelong have also been linked as possible destinations.

26. Jordan Houlahan

POS: Medium forward, Ht 185cm, Wt 78kg, DOB 19/2/99
From Sturt/South Australia
October ranking: None

A high-leaping forward who can turn things on in an instant, Houlahan had a solid season at under-18 level and also featured in Sturt's reserves side at different stages of the season. His jumping talents were on show at the Draft Combine when he finished in the top five for both the standing vertical and running vertical jump tests, and it comes through in his game as a medium option who plays a little taller than he is. Houlahan has a spark to his game that can light up others around him.

Where does he go? Most likely to fit into the second round. Sydney is a good shot if he makes it through to its second pick (No.34).

27. Connor Ballenden

POS: Key forward, Ht 199cm, Wt 95kg, DOB 29/3/1999
From Brisbane Lions academy/Allies
October ranking: 20

Ballenden is a tough prospect to rank after a challenging season for the Lions academy player. He started the year in the conversation for the No.1 pick, but never really pieced together strong form. He was tried in a few different roles – as a key forward, in the ruck and also as a key defender - but couldn't string together great games. At his size he is a good mark and also a very skilful kick of the ball, which he underlined at the Combine by winning the kicking test.

Where does he go? A bid seems unlikely to come for Ballenden in the first 25 picks after his season. After then, if a bid came the most likely outcome would see the Brisbane Lions match it and take on the academy selection.

28. Jack Petruccelle

POS: Midfielder/defender/forward, Ht 184cm, Wt 73kg, DOB 12/4/99
From Northern Knights/Vic Metro
October ranking: None

You're never quite sure what Petruccelle will bring to a game, which is part of the appeal for recruiters and part of the frustration. When he's firing, there's not a more exhilarating player than the Northern Knight, who has run the 20m sprint in 2.82 seconds and is the quickest player in the draft. He can be used off half-back, he's good one-on-one, and can leap high. He can also push forward and booted five goals in a game earlier in the year, and he can also be used in the middle. However, he can have his very quiet patches where he's unsighted in games so needs to close that gap.

Where does he go? The Brisbane Lions could look at Petruccelle at pick 18, but that's as early as he'd likely go. West Coast and the Giants are also interested with their second-round picks, but it wouldn't surprise if he got through a little later as well.

29. Gryan Miers

POS: Small forward, Ht 177cm, Wt 73kg, DOB 4/8/99
From Geelong Falcons/Vic Country
October ranking: None

Miers' Grand Final performance for the Geelong Falcons capped what was a very good season for the small forward. The 18-year-old kicked seven goals in a best-on-ground display for his side as it claimed the premiership, and saw his tally rise to 50 goals for the TAC Cup year. That's a very good number for any player let alone a smaller type, and he also played well for Vic Country at the under-18 championships.

Where does he go? Depending on whether the Giants go small or tall at No.11, they could look at Miers with their second-round selections. Richmond is considered a chance, while Geelong and West Coast will also be in the mix.

30. Ryley Stoddard

POS: Half-back, Ht 183cm, Wt 73kg, DOB 15/10/99
From Eastern Ranges/Vic Metro
October ranking: None

Stoddart is a medium defender who can provide excellent offensive run. He likes to carry the ball, step through or past a couple of opponents, and then size things up on his handy left foot. He isn't a huge ball-winner, but he doesn't waste too much touches and he's also athletically strong. At the Draft Combine he came third overall in the running vertical jump test (96cm).

Where does he go? West Coast has been linked to Stoddart, who would add some verve to their back half. The Giants have also shown interest.